Some of Techniquest’s most-loved exhibits are making a comeback this summer as Wales’ landmark science discovery centre celebrates its 40th anniversary.
The Cardiff Bay attraction has announced the return of the iconic Mirror Maze and Head on a Plate, two exhibits that generations of visitors fondly remember from childhood visits. Their return comes after visitors voted for their favourite retired exhibits in a poll held last year.
Established in 1986, Techniquest was the UK’s first purpose-built hands-on science discovery centre and has welcomed more than seven million visitors through its doors. For many people across Wales, a school trip to Techniquest was their first introduction to the wonders of science.
Today, the centre is home to more than 130 interactive exhibits, and this summer’s celebrations will combine nostalgic favourites with brand-new experiences.
Old Favourites Return
The return of the Mirror Maze and Head on a Plate forms part of Techniquest’s “40 Years of Discovery” celebrations.
Another long-standing favourite, the Bernoulli Blower, remains a centrepiece of the exhibition floor. Originally displayed when Techniquest opened in the 1980s, the exhibit demonstrates the Bernoulli Principle, helping visitors understand how aircraft stay in the air.
Gareth McTiffin, Director of Experiences at Techniquest, said:
“As we celebrate 40 years of discovery this year, we’re excited to be bringing back some of the exhibits that people remember most fondly. The Mirror Maze and Head on a Plate have sparked countless conversations and family photos over the years, and we’re looking forward to seeing families sharing those joyful optical illusions once again.”
New Interactive Exhibits
Alongside the returning classics, visitors will be able to experience several new exhibits, including a trio focused on the science of music and sound.
These include:
- Laser Harp – create music using beams of light
- Build a Melody – construct your own giant xylophone tune
- Playful Looper – record and layer rhythms, sounds and vocals
Students from Cardiff Metropolitan University have also helped shape the future of Techniquest by designing two new exhibits that will debut this summer.
One challenges visitors to build structures capable of surviving an earthquake, while the other explores electric currents and magnetic fields through the science behind Lenz’s Law.
Battle of the Bangs
Summer visitors can also enjoy a brand-new live science show called Battle of the Bangs, which brings together some of Techniquest’s most spectacular explosive demonstrations from the past four decades.
Other activities include:
- Slime-making workshops in the KLA Lab
- Planetarium Star Tours
- Environmental science activities
- Live science demonstrations throughout the centre
Lower Ticket Prices This Summer
Techniquest is taking part in the Great British Summer Savings Scheme, which reduces VAT on attraction tickets between 25 June and 1 September 2026.
As a result, full-day admission tickets will start from £11.93 during the promotional period.
Additional discounts are available for:
- Blue Light Card holders
- Universal Credit recipients
- National Rail customers through the Days Out scheme
- Transport for Wales customers, who can also receive discounts in the gift shop
A-Mazing Summer
Techniquest’s A-Mazing Summer programme runs from 11 July to 2 September 2026, with a special launch weekend taking place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 July.
Whether you’re reliving memories of getting lost in the Mirror Maze or introducing a new generation to the exhibits you loved as a child, this summer promises to be one of the biggest celebrations in Techniquest’s history.
