Experience the Great Exhibition of 1851 in VR

Go on a virtual journey inside the original Crystal Palace during the time of the Great Exhibition of 1851, one of the most significant events of Victorian London.

Drop in throughout the day to explore the building for yourself and discover more than 400 detailed models and illustrations showcasing its original exhibits, fixtures and fittings.

You'll discover 250 sculptures (including many from the building’s main avenues—some faithful recreations of pieces now lost); ten steam locomotives and one horse-powered locomotive; stained and painted glass; 14 pairs of boots and shoes by renowned makers Dowie, Hefford, Hoby, and Walker; historic church organs by Ducroquet, Gray & Davison, Schulze, and Willis; stained and painted glass by Bertini, Gibbs, Kellner, and Pugin; three model boats made at Bombay Dockyard; the "Comic Electric Telegraph"; a wax model of a dissected head by Towne; and the first public pay-to-use flushing toilets, designed by George Jennings!

Visitor information

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

The event is in the Goethe-Institut Library, which has a ramp for wheelchair users and accessible toilets that can be reached by a lift.

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.

REGISTER NOW FOR THE FESTIVAL