Our story

Bringing science to life through hands-on engagement is at the heart of Techniquest’s mission: making learning fun and opening up new pathways for curious minds to follow.

Complementing formal education provision in Wales, millions have benefited from the interactive nature of the exhibits on site, from outreach projects, and from digital shows that are now available to schools.

The UK’s longest-established Science Discovery Centre, Techniquest was founded in 1986 in Cardiff city centre; moving down to Cardiff Bay the following year, before becoming the country’s first purpose-built science centre in 1995.

The building was formerly a heavy engineering plant and Paul Koralek of ABK Architects designed Techniquest around the framework of the original building. In 1999 its exhibits were awarded ‘Millennium Product’ status by the Design Council of the UK because of their excellence.

1986

Founded in 1986 by Professor John Beetlestone and his colleagues from Cardiff University, our first home was in a former gas showroom in the city centre, opposite Cardiff Castle

1988

In 1988, the move was made to a pre-fabricated industrial building in Cardiff Bay and it was from here that the first education programmes for schools were launched.

1995

1995 saw Techniquest move to its current site, into what was formerly a heavy engineering plant. Here it became the UK’s first purpose-built science centre, on the waterfront of Cardiff Bay.

The intricate metal structure that runs across the whole of its glass frontage is an artistic reflection of this and acts as a link back to the building’s past life of heavy industry.

2011

In November 2011, Techniquest celebrated its 25^th birthday by opening to the public free of charge for the entire weekend. And yes, there was cake, lots of cake…

2020

The most recent chapter in the story of Techniquest is the addition of the Science Capital extension in 2020, which has transformed the centre once again by adding more space and new exhibits.

Millions of people have enjoyed visiting Techniquest over the years and our ambition is to introduce the world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to millions more: growing ‘science capital’ in both individuals and communities far into the future.

Did you know…?

One of the major changes Techniquest has experienced over the years has been in its funding model.

Until a few years ago, almost half of all our funding was provided by Welsh Government grants. Since 2016, that grant has reduced substantially, so Techniquest now relies almost exclusively on ticket sales to keep the visitor attraction side of the operation afloat — while specific grants from trusts, foundations, government departments, businesses and individual giving helps to support our work with schools and students.

Charity & funding

As a registered charity, our accounts can be found at the Charity Commission.

If you love Techniquest and the work it does then any donation, large or small will help us to keep our doors open, welcome more visitors and share our love of science more widely with people of every generation.

We appreciate that not everyone is in a position to give, but there are lots of ways you can support us: from following us on social media or signing up to our mailing list, to adding Gift Aid to your tickets, becoming a Friend, making a donation, or even working with us as a partner in some capacity.

Thank you!

Find out how to support us