Visitors are invited to step back into one of the most influential decades in modern British history as 1980s Britain: Money Changes Everything opens at Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery this summer.
Running from 13 June to 8 August, the free exhibition explores the politics, culture and social change that shaped a generation. Through powerful photography, iconic objects and fascinating stories, visitors can discover how the 1980s transformed Britain and how it continues to influence life today.
From the rise of Margaret Thatcher to the explosion of pop culture, fashion, technology and global events such as Live Aid, the exhibition captures the energy, controversy and spirit of a significant decade.
The exhibition also shines a spotlight on Peterborough, featuring local connections that add a personal touch, including photographs of the city and its people from the 1980s by local photographer Chris Porsz. These striking images show everyday life, fashion, and communities from the decade, bringing the story of the 1980s closer to home.
Whether visitors remember living through the decade or are discovering it for the first time, the exhibition offers a nostalgic, fun and visually engaging experience for all ages.
Glenys Wass, Museum Exhibitions Manager commented,
“We’re thrilled to welcome 1980s Britain: Money Changes Everything to Peterborough Museum. The exhibition explores a fascinating decade that many visitors will remember first-hand, while also giving families the opportunity to share memories, stories and experiences across generations. Parents and grandparents can introduce younger visitors to the events, fashions, music and technology that shaped the 1980s, creating conversations about just how much life has changed.”
Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm, and entry to the exhibition is completely free.
Test your '80s knowledge at Quiz Night!
Alongside the exhibition, the museum will host a special '80s Quiz Night on Friday 10 July at 7pm, with a themed prize up for grabs for the winning team.
Gather a team of between two and six people and put your knowledge of this iconic decade to the test. Fancy dress is strongly encouraged, so dust off those shoulder pads, pull on a punk-rock leather jacket, or dig out your brightest neon knitwear and join us for a fun-filled evening with friends.