To celebrate 40 years of discovery, we’ve asked anyone who loves Techniquest to submit their memories and photos to us.
And while we’ve already received some wonderful submissions, it’s not just our visitors who’ve been involved.
Kim Sellwood, who grew up in Cardiff Bay and joined our team in January as a Presenter Coach — a role that includes training live science hosts to deliver shows in the science theatre — visited us many times in her youth and considers these visits a formative influence on her STEM journey.
Read what she had to say below:
I’ve always had a deep personal connection to Techniquest, it’s a place that really shaped my childhood. I grew up in Cardiff Docks, and when Techniquest opened on Stuart Street, it quickly became part of our lives.
Most Saturdays, all the children from our street would meet up and walk over together, and we’d do the same loop every time — Techniquest, the Maritime Museum, the Big Pit simulation, and then the Tube.
Because it was free, we’d often hop in and out throughout the day, which made it feel like it truly belonged to us.
Those days were full of curiosity, freedom, and excitement.I’ve always loved science, and Techniquest made it feel alive and accessible. It wasn’t just about learning — it was about exploring, experimenting, and being inspired. I still remember my favourite exhibits so clearly: the wooden bridge, the floating beach ball, and the moving dragon.
One of the most special memories for me was when the new building opened. My school, St Cuthbert’s, was invited to bury a time capsule, and I had the honour of being part of that. Being able to see that time capsule again recently was incredibly meaningful — it truly felt like everything had come full circle.
As I grew older, I didn’t visit as often, but when I had children of my own, I brought them back to experience it for themselves. Watching them enjoy the same space especially the mirror maze, the shadow wall, and the giant swinging pencil was special. The shadow wall has always stood out for us; it’s something we returned to every time, and it became a real favourite across generations. My son even had two birthday parties there, which shows just how much it meant to our family.
Now, to be working here feels genuinely special. Techniquest has been part of my life for so long, and it means a great deal to be able to give back to help create that same sense of wonder and inspiration for the next generation that I was lucky enough to experience myself.
If you’d like to be part of our 40th anniversary celebrations by sharing your Techniquest memories, you can do so on this page.
We look forward to hearing from you!