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Exhibition

MI5: Official Secrets

A groundbreaking exhibition, opening spring 2025

About MI5: Official Secrets

Step inside the hidden world of MI5 and explore the extraordinary stories behind the security of a nation.

For the first time, MI5’s history will go on display to the public in a major new exhibition, made possible through an unprecedented partnership between the Security Service and The National Archives.

Explore the ever-changing world of espionage and security threats through original case files, photographs and papers, alongside the real equipment used by spies and spy-catchers over MI5’s 115-year history.

From counter-espionage and daring double-agents during the world wars, to chilling Cold War confessions and the counter-terrorism of recent times, this historic exhibition will take you behind the scenes of one of Britain’s most iconic institutions.

Stay tuned for more updates.

Opening spring 2025
See our opening times
Free

No booking needed

Everyone welcome
Recommended for ages 8+
Exhibition space
The National Archives
Kew, Richmond
TW9 4DU
Accessibility
See our accessibility guide

In partnership with MI5.

Exhibition highlights

Plan your visit

The outside of the National Archives offices in Kew

Spy stories

The story of

Virginia Hall

Virginia Hall (1906–1982) was an American who served with the British Special Operations Executive in France in 1941–1942 and built a career in espionage.

Spy on us

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