Display
Stories Unboxed
Each month we take a single, remarkable document, put it on display, and explore its story.
What's On
Exhibitions and displays
Visiting Kew? Don't miss our often-changing exhibitions and displays, large and small.
Showing 2 current exhibitions and displays.
Display
The Cabinet Table
Examine our replica Cabinet table and explore leaders from the past through their documents at this permanent display.
Past exhibitions and displays
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Past exhibition
Happy & Glorious
Happy & Glorious presented artworks commissioned for the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla in 2023.
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Past exhibition
Love Letters
A free exhibition showcasing 500 years of devotion, longing, sacrifice and passion. Open 24 January to 12 April 2026.
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Past exhibition
MI5: Official Secrets
This 2025 exhibition allowed visitors to step inside the hidden world of MI5 and explore the extraordinary stories behind the security of a nation.
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Past display
Slow Horses at The National Archives
Spy drama met real-life espionage at this now-closed display at The National Archives.
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Past display
Bright Stars of Black British History
This display featured three inspirational figures who have left a lasting mark on our collective history.
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Past display
Camp 144 at Kew
This temporary installation displayed photographs from the prisoner of war camp that was located on the site of The National Archives in Kew in 1945.
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Past exhibition
Great Escapes
This exhibition - now closed - revealed iconic and under-told stories of prisoners of war and civilian internees during the Second World War.
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Past exhibition
Spirit of Invention
Spirit of Invention was a fun, free exhibition showing the glorious imagination of Victorian designs alongside creations from modern makers.
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Past exhibition
Treason: People, Power & Plot
This exhibition explored the history of treason since 1352, from famous trials such as Guy Fawkes, Anne Boleyn and Charles I, to the cook who poisoned porridge.
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Past exhibition
The 1920s: Beyond the Roar
This exhibition recreated the fascinating world of the 'roaring twenties' through the lens of our vast and diverse collection.