1851der Tent

175 years after the Great Exhibition of 1851, this tent invites curious minds to explore both the history of the event and the ideas shaping our future.

See sounds you make come to life in Visualising Sound, discover Hydrogen Heroes while exploring how hydrogen production can support a more sustainable future, and get hands-on in the Inventors Lab where you’ll make your own miniature inventions with help from 1851 Royal Commission Fellows.

At its centre is a detailed 3D model of the Crystal Palace, the vast glass structure built in Hyde Park to house the Great Exhibition. The event brought together thousands of objects, inventions and materials from across Britain and the wider empire, reflecting the ambitions, inequalities and global systems of the Victorian era.

Explore how the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851 has grown from its historic origins to the work it does today, supporting scientists, engineers and designers as they develop ideas that could shape our future.

Visitor information

This is a drop-in event suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The event has step-free access.

To attend the Festival, please make sure to register for free. Registering is the only way to receive the latest Festival updates, a first look at the programme, and opportunities to book free tickets for popular events.