The Centre for Computing History
CCH is a fascinating destination for families, offering an internationally celebrated collection of over 40,000 vintage computers, gadgets, and hands-on displays. Explore more than 1,000 historic computers, along with old-school mobile phones, game consoles, calculators, and even interviews with the trailblazers of early tech.
Families can also discover unique collections tied to Cambridge’s history, like the Sinclair and Acorn archives, plus the world’s largest display of Lyons Electronic Office (LEO) artefacts.
The Centre for Computing History offers a range of special events, hands-on activities, and exhibits that cater to both enthusiasts and families, creating an engaging experience for all visitors
Key Features:
- Vintage Computers and Consoles: The Centre boasts an impressive collection of over 100 working vintage computers, including early mainframes, personal computers, and gaming consoles. This allows visitors to trace the development of computing from its origins to modern-day machines.
- Interactive Displays: Many of the computers are set up for visitors to try, giving you a chance to experience how people interacted with technology decades ago. From old-school text-based games to early word processors, these hands-on exhibits add a personal touch to the history.
- Timeline of Computing: The museum showcases the evolution of computing through an interactive timeline, showing key milestones, inventions, and the figures behind them. This timeline gives visitors an understanding of how computing technology has transformed over the years.
Special Events:
- Retro Gaming Events: These events often focus on classic video games from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Visitors can engage in friendly competitions or simply enjoy nostalgic gameplay on vintage systems. These events may take place on weekends or during school holidays, with some events dedicated to specific gaming consoles or genres.
- Workshops and Educational Sessions: Throughout the year, the museum offers workshops designed to teach visitors about computing history and the future of technology. These sessions may include coding workshops, 3D printing demonstrations, and electronics-building classes. Schools and educational groups are encouraged to book in advance for guided tours and workshops.
- Guest Speakers and Talks: The Centre hosts talks by computing pioneers, historians, and tech innovators, providing visitors with unique insights into the development of technology and its impact on society. These events are usually held periodically, often announced in advance via the museum's website.
- Family Days: During school holidays, the Centre organises special events for families. These often include interactive exhibits, games, and activities designed to engage children and introduce them to the history of computing in a fun and educational way.
Times:
- Opening Hours: The Centre is generally open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some exceptions during holidays or special events. It is always a good idea to check their schedule before planning your visit.
- Events Timing: Special events like retro gaming nights or workshops are typically scheduled in the evenings or weekends, but the museum's calendar should be consulted for specific dates and times.
How long you’ll need:
- Exhibits: Exploring the main exhibits and collections can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on how deeply you wish to engage with the exhibits and interact with the technology.
- Special Events: The duration of special events can vary. Workshops and talks may last 1-2 hours, while retro gaming or family events can go for several hours.
The Centre for Computing History is a must-visit for anyone interested in technology, offering a rich blend of history, education, and fun.
