Bill Douglas Centre for the History of Cinema and Popular Culture

The Bill Douglas Centre is both a public museum and a research centre for the study of popular visual entertainment and the moving image. The Centre is based around the collection amassed by the acclaimed British film maker Bill Douglas and his lifelong friend Peter Jewell. On Bill's death in 1991 Peter made an agreement to donate the collection to the University of Exeter for it to be availale both for study and the enjoyment of the general public.

The museum first opened its doors in 1997 and offers a wealth of beautiful and fascinating objects and images that form a comprehensive history of our odsession with the moving image.

In our upper galleries we take the story of the cinema and its reception through to the present day. We explore how audiences have engaged with the stars through a wealth of memorabilia; cigarette cards, fan magazines, stills, and how films have been sold to the public through toys, games and all manner of merchandising opportunities.

We welcome both individuals, families and groups. We are usually able to offer guided tours of our displays.