Every so often when travelling, I come across a place that feels like a proper hidden gem. That’s exactly how I felt stepping into the National Film and Sci-Fi Museum in Milton Keynes. If you’ve ever thrilled at Darth Vader’s ominous breathing, ducked behind the sofa during Doctor Who, or still hum the Ghostbusters theme tune, this museum will spark memories and put a smile on your face.
The museum opened in 2021 and it’s not your usual slick, corporate attraction. It has the warmth of a passion project, clearly run by people who love film and television as much as the visitors. Instead of being overwhelming or polished to within an inch of its life, it feels personal and authentic – more like stepping into a collector’s dream than a standard museum.
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect before I went. Milton Keynes doesn’t shout “movie history” in the same way as London or Los Angeles. But what I found was a treasure trove of film and sci-fi memorabilia, cleverly presented and full of nostalgia.
The Experience Inside
The heart of the museum is its collection of screen-used props, costumes, and models from over 100 films and TV series. Walking through the exhibits feels like flicking through the best bits of popular culture from the past fifty years.
Some of the highlights I spotted:
- Star Wars – including Darth Vader’s mask, Chewbacca’s suit, Princess Leia’s medal from A New Hope, and original lightsabers. Standing inches away from these pieces was surreal.
- Doctor Who – from Daleks and sonic screwdrivers to newer additions like a Weeping Angel and a Cyberman. For Whovians, it’s heaven.
- Indiana Jones – iconic props such as the Ark of the Covenant, Indy’s bullwhip, and the Sankara Stone.
- Ghostbusters – proton packs and other ghost-hunting gear from the original films.
- Harry Potter – authentic costumes and props that bring the wizarding world to life.
- Star Trek – costumes, phasers, and spaceship models, including Klingon craft.
- Space: 1999 – beautifully restored miniatures and props from the classic series.
- Jaws – models of Bruce the shark and the Orca, a real treat for film history buffs.
- British sci-fi favourites – from Blake’s 7 and Red Dwarf to Flash Gordon and Sherlock.
The museum often rotates its exhibits and adds new ones, so even if you’ve been before, there’s usually something fresh to discover.
Practical Details: Tickets, Opening Times, and Atmosphere
- Tickets are sensibly priced compared with larger London attractions. You can book online or usually pay on the door. Families will find it good value.
- Opening times are mainly weekends and school holidays, so it’s best to check the website before making plans. It’s not a daily attraction, but that makes it feel more like an event when it is open.
- Atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. The staff and volunteers are passionate and knowledgeable, always happy to share stories about how props were sourced or what films they came from.
You don’t need to be a hardcore sci-fi fan to enjoy it. Kids may not recognise everything, but they’ll still be wowed by the costumes and creatures. Adults who grew up in the 70s, 80s, or 90s will find it especially nostalgic.
How to Get There
Milton Keynes is easier to reach than many people realise.
- By road: For campervanners, the town is well connected to the M1 and A5. From the M1, take Junction 14 into the centre.
- Scenic routes: If you prefer avoiding motorways, the surrounding Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire countryside has plenty of pleasant driving routes that make the journey more enjoyable.
- By train: Milton Keynes Central is just 35 minutes from London Euston by direct service. From there, the museum is a short bus or taxi ride away.
Parking
Being in the town centre means lots of multi-storey car parks nearby. If you’re in a campervan, watch out for height restrictions. Larger outdoor car parks near the MK Theatre District and Xscape complex are better options for tall vehicles.
Overnighting in a Campervan
If you’re touring in a campervan, you’ve got a few options:
- Pub stops: Several pubs on the outskirts of Milton Keynes welcome overnight stays, especially if you’re part of schemes like Brit Stops.
- Urban overnighting: Not ideal in Milton Keynes itself. It’s a modern, busy town with regular patrols, so a proper site is the safer bet.
Tips for Visiting
- Look out for special events: The museum often hosts themed weekends, guest talks, and signings. If you time your trip with one, you’ll get even more out of your visit.
- Combine attractions: The Xscape complex across the road has indoor skiing, climbing, and a cinema. A short drive away is Bletchley Park, famous for its WWII codebreakers.
- Take your time: The museum isn’t massive, but it’s dense with detail. Give yourself at least two hours to do it justice.
The National Film and Sci-Fi Museum in Milton Keynes is a real treat for film lovers and travellers looking for something different. It’s not flashy or corporate, but that’s exactly its charm. Instead, it feels like stepping inside a carefully curated vault of cinema history, with treasures from Star Wars, Doctor Who, Indiana Jones, and countless other classics.
Would I go back? Without a doubt. I’d especially love to visit during one of their themed events, when the place fills with fellow fans and guest appearances.
Who would enjoy it most?
- Families seeking a quirky, memorable day out
- Adults nostalgic for the films and shows they grew up with
- Travellers wanting an offbeat attraction away from the usual tourist trail
If you’re passing through Milton Keynes, or planning a film-inspired road trip, this museum is well worth a stop.
Have you been to the National Film and Sci-Fi Museum yourself? I’d love to hear which props or costumes caught your eye. Or, if you’re planning a visit, let me know what you’re most excited to see!