New 70's exhibition opens in Hull

Ever look at old family photos and think, "What on earth were they wearing?" Or hear your mum and dad talk about a time before the internet, before smartphones, when the telly only had three channels? It sounds like a different planet, right? The 1970s was a wild decade of massive change, a real mix of good times and tough moments. It was all about glittery platform boots and... power cuts. Yep, both at the same time.

If you're curious about this decade of disco, strikes, and seriously questionable wallpaper, you're in for a treat. The Streetlife Museum in Hull has just opened a brilliant new exhibition called 'Glam and Gloom: 1970s Britain'. It’s like a time machine that plonks you right back in the middle of it all. Forget what you think you know; this is the real story of the decade that shaped the UK, and it's open from 10 July to 31 August.

More than just flares and funky wallpaper

So, what will you actually see? The team at the museum, led by curator Dr Geraldine Mulcahy-Parker, has pulled together some amazing stuff that brings the decade to life. The exhibition is packed with music and TV memorabilia that will transport you straight to a Saturday night watching Top of the Pops. You’ll get to see the toys and games that everyone was obsessed withsuch as Space Hoppers (those big orange bouncy balls with horns), Clackers (two plastic balls on a string that made an annoyingly satisfying noise), and maybe even an old Raleigh Chopper bike.

• Fashion: Get ready for some serious patterns, bell-bottom trousers, and platform shoes.
• Music & TV: See memorabilia from the shows and bands everyone was talking about.
• Toys & Games: A nostalgic look at how kids played in the 70s.
• Household Items: You might even spot the kind of orange and brown sofa your nan used to have!

It’s a fantastic way to see how much things have changed, but also to spot the things that are still kind of cool today.

It’s personal: your stories, your city

What makes this exhibition extra special is that it’s not just about the big national story. It’s about real people and their memories, especially from Hull. A while back, the museum asked people to send in their own family photos from the 1970s. And the response was huge!

These snaps have been put together in a digital display, so you can see what life was really like for families in the city. You'll see dodgy haircuts, funny outfits, birthday parties, and holidays. It adds such a lovely, personal feel to the whole thing. It reminds you that history isn't just about dates and famous people; it’s about ordinary families living their lives.

Councillor Rob Pritchard, who looks after culture and leisure for the council, was pleased with the response. He said, “We have been overwhelmed by the fantastic contributions we’ve had from our residents to this brilliant exhibition.”

He also added, “Their memories really do capture life in the city during the 1970s, offering a real personal touch. I look forward to seeing visitor reaction to this one – spotting familiar faces along the way!”

Isn't that great? You might even see someone you know! It’s a celebration of Hull's own history, woven into the bigger picture of Britain in the 70s.

The details you need to know

So, fancy a trip back in time? The 'Glam and Gloom' exhibition is an absolute must-see, whether you lived through the 70s or you're just curious about what it was all about. It's a great day out for the whole family.

Here’s the important info:

• What: Glam and Gloom: 1970s Britain Exhibition
• Where: The Streetlife Museum, Hull Museums Quarter
• When: From Thursday, 10 July 2025 until 31 August 2025
• How much: Absolutely FREE!

You don’t need to book, just turn up and get ready for a blast from the past.