Edinburgh secures blockbuster Doctor Who exhibition for show’s 60th-anniversary year

One of the biggest ever exhibitions inspired by the long-running TV series Doctor Who is to be staged in Edinburgh in the show’s 60th-anniversary year.

The National Museum of Scotland, the country’s most popular visitor attraction, has secured the blockbuster show, which will offer insights into the show’s special effects, set designs and the creation of the best-known enemies of the Doctor.

The exhibition, which is aimed at exploring the science behind the sci-fi series, has been developed in close collaboration with BBC Studios.

The National Museum of Scotland will be playing host to the new exhibition Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder from December. Picture: Duncan McGlynn

It will feature iconic monsters, gadgets, props, models, sketches, concept artworks and hands-on experiences.

The show, which will draw on the full heritage of Doctor Who, is expected to coincide with the arrival of Scottish actor Ncuti Gatwa in the TARDIS as the new Doctor after the departure of Jodie Whittaker in the autumn.

Displays and exhibits are expected to explore the links between Scotland and Doctor Who, including the three Scots to previously play the lead role.

Created by exhibition designers Sarner International, the show will allow visitors to learn about what DNA manipulation, cloning and artificial intelligence may mean for the future of the human race.

The Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition will open at the National Museum of Scotland in December. Picture: Robin Clewley

The exhibition, which will run from December 10 until May 1, will explore whether time travel is actually possible, the secrets of black holes and wormholes, and what forms of life may exist on other planets.

The exhibition is narrated by Game of Thrones star Mark Gatiss – co-creator of the BBC’s Sherlock series and the writer of several episodes of Doctor Who.

He said: “So many people who have gone on to work in science have had their interest piqued by watching Doctor Who, and one of the amazing things about the show is its ability to make us wonder.

"I’m thrilled to be part of the exhibition and I do hope as many curiously minded people as possible take the opportunity to visit.”

The Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition will open at the National Museum of Scotland in December. Picture: Robin Clewley

Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock, space scientist, author and presenter of the BBC’s The Sky at Night programme, will provide expert analysis and explore the mind-blowing science behind the well-loved TV show, through interactive ‘Ask a Scientist’ sections throughout the exhibition.

She said: “As a child, science fiction played a critical role in my life and inspired me to become a space scientist. It allows us to explore tales of wonder and shows us the possibilities for the future and how science fiction can become science fact.

"I hope the exhibition – and my contribution to it – will inspire, inform and excite everyone in the same way.”

Alison Cromarty, head of exhibitions and design at the National Museum of Scotland, said: “We are tremendously excited to be bringing this exhibition to Scotland. From the wonder of the science fiction of the TV show to our present-day understanding of the big scientific topics it touches on, there is something for everyone.”

K9, one of the Doctors more unusual companions, is expected to feature in the Doctor Who World of Wonders exhibition.

Ed Cookson, projects director at Sarner International, said: “For almost 60 years, Doctor Who has been exploring mind-bending scientific developments.

"The iconic characters, monsters, stories and settings of the television series provide a perfect guide through the wondrous worlds of space, time and science.”