Exhibition:Picture Post: A Twentieth Century Icon

National Museum Cardiff

Before 24-hour news and social media, how did people see the world? In the 1930s, Picture Post revolutionized the way Britain understood itself. This groundbreaking photo-magazine captured everyday life, major events, and shifting social attitudes, reaching 1.7 million readers at its peak.

This exhibition brings Picture Post to life through striking photography, revealing Britain’s transformation from the 1930s to the 1950s. From war and politics to cultural change, discover the moments that defined a nation.

Experience the power of photography to inform, challenge, and connect—just as Picture Post did for a generation.

The exhibition has been developed in partnership with the Hulton Archive (Getty Images) and the Tom Hopkinson Centre for Media History (School of Journalism, Media and Culture, Cardiff University). 

Tickets

The exhibition is free and you can pre-book your tickets before visiting. If you’d like to play an active part in sharing the amazing stories of Wales, please consider making a donation – your donations help us to ensure that Amgueddfa Cymru can continue to host inspiring exhibitions.

This exhibition is generously supported by players of People's Postcode Lottery.

Information

24 May–9 November 2025
Coming Soon
Cost Free
Suitability All

West Indian immigrants arrive at Victoria Station after their journey from Southampton Docks

© Haywood Magee/Picture Post/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

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Tickets

Date Time slots available
24 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
25 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
26 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
27 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
28 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
29 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
30 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
31 May 2025 All Day View Tickets
1 June 2025 All Day View Tickets
3 June 2025 All Day View Tickets

Plan your visit

Opening Hours

10am–5pm. Galleries close at 4.45pm.

Open for 6 days a week Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays but open Bank Holiday Monday.

Admission is free, however a charge may apply for some exhibitions, events and activities.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Parking

A Visitor Car Park is situated behind the Museum, off Museum Avenue. Visitors parking here will receive a ticket at the point of entry and need to pay £6.50 for the day at a pay-station located at the rear of the car park. Please note that the pay-stations only accept card payments – no cash payments are accepted. Visitors can use any credit/debit cards (except for American Express), or Apple or Android Pay.

Parking is free to blue badge holders. Please use the intercom at the exit barrier to verify your blue badge permit. Disabled parking is also available at the front of the Museum, on Gorsedd Gardens Road.

Visting by public transport, bike or foot?

You can plan your journey using the Traveline Cymru website or by calling their helpline on 0800 464 0000.

Eat, Drink, Shopping

  • The Museum café in the Main Hall is open every day 10am-4pm offering a range of drinks and snacks.
  • The restaurant is open weekends and bank holidays at 11am-3pm.

Accessibility

If you prefer to visit when we’re less crowded, there are usually fewer people on our site from 3pm each day.

Access Guide

Location

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