Marvel at the world’s first electronic computer, used to unravel Nazi codes, and compare these wall-consuming contraptions with the tiny gadgets of present day.
The National Museum of Computing delves into the relatively short and fascinating history of computers in all their forms. It claims to hold the world’s largest collection of working historic computers. Join a guided tour with a docent for a more complete understanding of the displays.
The star of the show is the Colossus, a rebuilt version of the world’s first electronic computer. Note how the contraption lives up to its name, stretching across an entire wall. It was built to decipher Nazi codes in World War II. Get a closer look at the 1950s WITCH, considered the world’s oldest working digital computer.
The museum has also reconstructed the 1949 EDSAC computer. Study the code-breaking process and history in the Tunny Gallery and play retro games on the nostalgia-inducing PCs. Learn about air traffic control and internet technology.
Trace the fast development of computing technology through the decades, starting with slide rules and other manual methods. Marvel at the sheer size of the clunky mainframes and systems from the decades that followed. See how personal computers marked the 1980s and eventually led to the sleek gadgets we use today.
A range of souvenirs as well as drinks and snacks are available in the museum shop. Scan the store for T-shirts, mugs, photos and books, among other items. Attend one of the lectures, workshops and temporary exhibits put on in the museum.
The Colossus Galleries are open daily, while the rest of the site is accessible on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons, as well as bank holidays. Purchase tickets and get discounts for families. Guided tours have an additional fee and take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The National Museum of Computing is part of Bletchley Park in the southern outskirts of Milton Keynes. Arrive at the Bletchley railway station and walk northwest for 10 minutes to get here. Visit other nearby landmarks such as Bletchley Park Mansion and the Chauffeur’s Hut museum.
