The Secret Life of the Home

From pop-up toasters to horse-drawn vacuum cleaners, take a closer look at the development of household appliances. Most of the objects on show date from the late 19th and the 20th century. But you’ll also find ancient Roman keys, 18th century cooking utensils and a 21st century robotic vacuum cleaner, and you’ll learn how applied robotics has become one of the key influences on the future development of household appliances. How do CD players, washing machines and toilets work? Interactive exhibits in the gallery will help you find out, and you can play the world’s first home video game 'Pong' too. Visit The Secret Life of the Home to see how the design of household gadgets has changed over time. Planning a school visit? Find out more information about the gallery for educational groups.