Discover the past, present and future of AI at Bletchley Park

The temporary exhibition is in place at the Buckinghamshire home of the codebreakers for the next two years, offering an interactive exploration of artificial intelligence. Visitors can discover AI from its origins in World War Two codebreaking to its role in our daily lives, its potential to transform our world and the ethical questions it raises.

The display begins with Bletchley Park’s pioneers, including Alan Turing, and their initial ideas for artificial intelligence. It also focuses on the Bletchley Declaration, developed at the world’s first AI Safety Summit held at the site in November 2023 attended by world leaders and the great and the good from the world of tech. The full declaration is on display to read.

Visitors can explore and engage with hands-on exhibits, attempt to distinguish between real-life and AI-generated content and see if AI can recreate their voice. I was able to test out the interactive features, which are very easy to use, and found the task of analysing satelite images of animals particularly engaging, along with looking at how AI is used to predict climate disasters and protect people.

Case studies on the walls, looking at different uses of AI are presented excellently, with easy-to-read information panels and items and images, providing insightful looks at AI in the modern world and breaking down fears and misunderstandings people may have. It was particularly interesting to find out how AI is used in creative industries to develop music and films.

The centrepiece is a timeline looking at the development of AI, from its early use in the Turing machine, to modern advances like ChatGPT. Touchscreen monitors allow visitors to look at the influence of AI in their lives, including in streaming, smart-home software and cars.

Exhibitions manager, Tilly Davies, guided us through the exhibition, explaining how they used focus groups made up of different age ranges to find out what AI means to different generations and what they want to learn about the technology.

It is easy to understand why many fear this technology, particularly given how it has been depicted on screen in things like The Terminator and Doctor Who. This exhibition breaks down how it can be used to benefit humanity and the wider world, while also providing important information about its threats.

I found the exhibition engaging and easy to access. With plenty of information available across a range of industries and areas of our lives which can influenced by artificial intelligence, the exhibition is accessible and suitable to a wide range of ages and interests. 

What else to do during a visit

A trip to Bletchley Park would not be complete without exploring the buildings on site and learning about the people who lived and worked there during World War Two. The included multimedia guide is an excellent options for those looking to explore at their own pace. 

I joined a free guided tour led by a very interesting volunteer named Anthony. He talked us through the development of the estate and the work done there, from 185 people in 1939 at the outbreak of the conflict, to more than 8,900 staff by January 1945.

All exhibitions are included in the price of admission. I thoroughly enjoyed the cinematic experience exploring Bletchley Park’s secret role during D-Day in the D-Day: Interception, Intelligence, Invasion display.

Benefits for groups visiting Bletchley Park

Groups visiting Bletchley Park can enjoy discounted admission for 12 or more people. Additional benefits include complimentary entry for the coach driver and group organiser, free coach parking and familiarisation visits.

Food and drink options are available in the coffee shop and restaurant, including freshly cooked hot meals, snacks, cakes and a range of hot and cold drinks. As well as refreshments offered by the Block C coffee shop and Hut 4 café, groups can book teas and coffees on arrival.