Business Details
Explore Computing History in Swindon
We are an independent, volunteer-run museum accredited by Arts Council England, dedicated to preserving the history of computing and digital development. Established as the first physical museum of its kind in the UK, we provide hands-on exhibits spanning from the 1960s to the present, offering visitors a unique opportunity to interact with historic computers, gaming consoles, and calculators. Our mission is to collect, document, and interpret computing artefacts, fostering inspiration, learning, and enjoyment for all ages.We actively engage with the local community through educational programs, workshops, and events tailored for schools, families, and technology enthusiasts. With a focus on accessibility, we ensure our collections and activities are available to everyone, creating a welcoming environment that celebrates the evolution of technology.
Services
Computing History Exhibits
Retro Gaming
Educational Workshops
Scouting IT Badges
Temporary Displays
Highlights and features
- We offer hands-on exhibits with over 100 working computers and consoles.
- Our volunteer team includes industry veterans with decades of IT experience.
- We provide tailored educational programs for schools and scouting groups.
- Family-friendly environment with interactive retro gaming experiences.
- Affordable entry prices with free re-admission for same-day returns.
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council England
- Association of Independent Museums
- South West Federation of Museums and Art Galleries
What people say
Knowledgeable staff
Hands-on exhibits
Great value
Nostalgic experience
Family-friendly
Services
Computing History Exhibits
Explore over 100 working computers and calculators from the 1960s to modern era. Exhibits include rare prototypes, business systems, and gaming consoles. Interactive displays allow visitors to program vintage machines and play retro games.
Retro Gaming
Experience hands-on gaming with original consoles from the 1970s to 2000s. Play iconic titles on systems like Atari, Nintendo, and Xbox. Family-friendly sessions include multiplayer options and competitive leaderboards for classic games.
Educational Workshops
Curriculum-linked workshops for Key Stages 1-4 covering computing history, programming basics, and digital literacy. Sessions include guided tours, hands-on experiments, and Q&A sessions with industry experts. Booking available for school groups and home educators.
Scouting IT Badges
Specialist sessions helping Scouts and Cubs achieve IT proficiency badges. Activities include coding challenges, hardware demonstrations, and problem-solving tasks. Certified instructors provide structured learning paths aligned with scouting requirements.
Temporary Displays
Rotating exhibitions showcasing specific computing eras, companies, or technologies. Recent displays featured early internet development, local tech innovations, and gaming industry milestones. Temporary exhibits often include guest lectures and extended opening hours.
Questions
What are the museum's opening hours?
We are open Saturdays 9:30am-5pm. Check our website for seasonal variations and special event hours.
Are there educational programs for schools?
Yes, we offer curriculum-linked workshops and guided tours for Key Stages 1-4 with hands-on computing activities.
Can I play retro games at the museum?
All gaming consoles and computers are interactive - play classic games from the 1970s to 2000s on original hardware.
Is parking available nearby?
Yes, several car parks within 5 minutes walk. Use PayByPhone app for convenient payment options.
Do you accept donations of computing equipment?
As an accredited museum, we have specific collection criteria. Please contact us regarding potential equipment donations.
Are there concession prices available?
Yes, we offer reduced entry fees for students, seniors, and carers accompanying disabled visitors.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Robbie Stewart
Dec 27, 2021
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Excellent little museum, RAM packed with a multitude of computer paraphernalia from across several decades. Informative AND interactive, what more do you want. Personal highlight was the Nintendo arcade machine. 10/10, would do again yes.
Craig Stevens
Nov 06, 2021
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Visited today and would recommend to anyone with an interest in computing, gaming or just a desire to relive your childhood. Many working usable computers and games consoles ready for you to play on. Friendly, knowledgeable staff on hand and great value for money.
Jan Arding
Oct 27, 2021
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Fun for all ages (male and female) if you like old and new computer and game consoles some you can play on, my Grandaughter didn't want to leave she was enjoying it too much they also have lego bricks to build your own design or one of theirs. Big thumbs-up for a day out. Everyone was welcoming and helpful, very friendly staff, will be definitely coming back.
Robert Annett
Oct 13, 2021
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Small but interesting museum on computing history. Good to see the early British pioneers covered and to meet some fellow retro nerds. Good to see that at least one other person in the UK had a TI99-4A. Keep up the good work guys!
