North Herts Museum has launched a brand-new exhibition, 'I Grew Up 80s', offering a vibrant look at 1980s Britain through the eyes of a child. Running from 13 December 2025 to 15 March 2026, the exhibition is a free-of-charge experience that features over 200 iconic objects designed to spark nostalgia.

Visitors are invited to step back in time and revisit the energy and innovation that defined the decade. The display showcases 'wonderfully preserved' objects and framed works including toys, technology, music, sport, fashion, food, film, and TV - from Betamax to BMX, and Transformers to the Thompson Twins.

 Interactive elements bring the exhibition to life, including a playable 'Donkey Kong' arcade cabinet – available for just 50p a go - and a vintage TV set with an hour of looped archival footage. Neon signage and light rods also bolster the atmosphere with a colourful, visual treat.

 Free-standing mannequins dressed in authentic 80s fashion and two BMX bikes further enhance the retro vibes, promising a trip down memory lane that will have visitors exclaiming, "I remember that!"

The exhibition explores how life in the 80s – largely pre-internet – shaped a shared cultural experience for a generation, highlighting everyday objects and treasures that were central to childhood.

Whether you grew up in the decade or want to share the joys of your youth with younger generations, this exhibition is the perfect opportunity to step back in time.

Cllr Tamsin Thomas, Executive Member for Enterprise at North Herts Council, said: ""The 'I Grew Up 80s' exhibition offers a compelling journey into the past, and is guaranteed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and delight. It's a brilliant, fun and free day out that really shows how much things have changed. We can't wait for visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the defining decade of the 80s."

Plan your visit now! North Herts Museum is located on Brand Street, Hitchin SG5 1JE, and open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.30am to 4.30pm, and Sundays, 11am to 3pm. Admission to the museum is totally free and includes a fantastic café with a range of drinks, savoury and sweet snacks, and light meals.

For more information check out @northhertsmuseum on Facebook and Instagram, visit the North Herts Museum website or call 01462 474554.