Free 1980s film exhibition at Glasgow Riverside Museum opens this week

Retro Reels, which has opened at Glasgow’s Riverside Museum, will invite visitors to immerse themselves in the sights, stories and creativity that defined a decade of blockbuster filmmaking.

Running from January 10 until March 29, 2026, the free exhibition will feature an extensive collection of replica props from some of the most iconic films and franchises of the era.

The exhibition features a collection of replica props from some of the decade’s most iconic films and franchises.

Announcing the exhibition on social media, Riverside Museum said:  “This Saturday … Something BIG is coming. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the unforgettable world of 1980s cinema with Retro Reels.

“A nostalgic journey through the props, stories and creativity that shaped a generation.

“Displaying an extraordinary collection of replica props, highlights include legendary intergalactic objects from George Lucas’s galactic movie saga, the time-travelling Doctor’s Police Box complete with companions, and a replica of the show-stopping DeLorean from Back to the Future.

” Admission is free, no booking required. Costumes encouraged! Open Saturday January 10 – Sunday March 29, 2026.”

Among the highlights on display are intergalactic artefacts inspired by George Lucas’s legendary space saga, a replica of the show-stopping DeLorean from Back to the Future, and the time-travelling Doctor’s Police Box complete with companions.

Visitors will also find themselves transported into the worlds of Gremlins and everyone’s favourite Extra-Terrestrial.

Glasgow Life, which manages the city’s museums, described Retro Reels as a family-friendly experience designed to celebrate a shared love of film.

The immersive exhibition invites guests of all ages to rediscover the stories, characters, and creativity that made 1980s cinema so memorable.

Visitors are encouraged to attend in costume, with the museum offering 10 per cent off selected shop items for those dressed in ’80s movie-inspired outfits.

Entry to Retro Reels is free and does not require booking.