A groundbreaking exhibition in partnership with MI5 exploring the vital work of Britain’s domestic intelligence agency open in April 2025 at the National Archives at Kew, London. .
It is the first time in MI5’s 115-year history that it has collaborated on an exhibition in this way. Their input provides an insider’s perspective on the evolution of espionage in response to changing security threats.
It is the first time in MI5’s 115-year history that it has collaborated on an exhibition in this way, with their input providing an insider’s perspective on the evolution of espionage in response to changing security threats.
Opening this Spring at The National Archives, MI5: Official Secrets will take visitors on a journey through pivotal moments in MI5’s history, from its formation in the lead-up to the First World War, through the fight against fascism in the Second World War, exploring the spies and scandals of the Cold War, and then into the contemporary challenges of dealing with terrorism.
Showcasing a compelling collection of original case files, photographs and papers, alongside authentic espionage equipment used by spies and spy-catchers over the last 115 years, MI5: Official Secrets will offer a captivating glimpse into the world of British intelligence.
Among the fascinating stories being explored are never-before-seen papers being released by The National Archives today: namely the first-hand account of Kim Philby’s confession in 1963; and papers related to the past activities of Cambridge spy Anthony Blunt.
The exhibition will also feature exclusive video insights from former MI5 directors general, intelligence experts including Professor Christopher Andrew, author of MI5’s official history, and Baroness May, former prime minister and one of Britain’s longest serving home secretaries.
Sir Ken McCallum, Director General of MI5 said: “We are pleased to partner with The National Archives to share our history through MI5: Official Secrets.
“While much of our work must remain secret, this exhibition reflects our ongoing commitment to being open wherever we can.”
Saul Nassé, Chief Executive and Keeper at The National Archives, said: “It’s a privilege to work with MI5 on this exhibition exploring the extraordinary story of what they do.
“As the official archive for the UK Government we hold and make available MI5 files in our reading rooms and online.
“This exhibition adds to that by creating an immersive experience that will challenge perceptions and provide new perspectives. Stand by for the inside track on famous spy scandals and uncover secrets that will amaze you.”
Mark Dunton, historian at The National Archives and curator of MI5: Official Secrets, said: “The joy of the MI5 files are that many can be read as though they were a gripping spy novel. The difference is that these are the authentic, official records which give us rich layers of detail about famous espionage cases.
“Many people will have heard of the Cambridge Five, Klaus Fuchs and the atomic spies, or the double cross agents of the Second World War, but we will also be highlighting the astonishing work of dedicated MI5 officers, like Major ‘Tin Eye’ Stephens and Jane Sissmore, the first female MI5 officer, who tirelessly investigated espionage suspects. And even the work of the Girl Guides who acted as messengers in the early years.”
Other individuals being highlighted include, Vernon Kell, MI5’s first and longest serving director, and William Melville, a man who could be described as a founding father of MI5 investigations, while explorations of the Portland Spy Ring, the infiltration of the Communist Party of Great Britain, and the evolution of spy methods and surveillance techniques will provide visitors with new insights into Britain’s intelligence work.
Opening this Spring at The National Archives, MI5: Official Secrets will take visitors on a journey through pivotal moments in MI5’s history, from its formation in the lead-up to the First World War, through the fight against fascism in the Second World War, exploring the spies and scandals of the Cold War, and then into the contemporary challenges of dealing with terrorism.
Showcasing a compelling collection of original case files, photographs and papers, alongside authentic espionage equipment used by spies and spy-catchers over the last 115 years, MI5: Official Secrets will offer a captivating glimpse into the world of British intelligence.
Among the fascinating stories being explored are never-before-seen papers being released by The National Archives today: namely the first-hand account of Kim Philby’s confession in 1963; and papers related to the past activities of Cambridge spy Anthony Blunt.
The exhibition will also feature exclusive video insights from former MI5 directors general, intelligence experts including Professor Christopher Andrew, author of MI5’s official history, and Baroness May, former prime minister and one of Britain’s longest serving home secretaries.
Sir Ken McCallum, Director General of MI5 said: “We are pleased to partner with The National Archives to share our history through MI5: Official Secrets.
“While much of our work must remain secret, this exhibition reflects our ongoing commitment to being open wherever we can.”
Saul Nassé, Chief Executive and Keeper at The National Archives, said: “It’s a privilege to work with MI5 on this exhibition exploring the extraordinary story of what they do.
“As the official archive for the UK Government we hold and make available MI5 files in our reading rooms and online.
“This exhibition adds to that by creating an immersive experience that will challenge perceptions and provide new perspectives. Stand by for the inside track on famous spy scandals and uncover secrets that will amaze you.”
Mark Dunton, historian at The National Archives and curator of MI5: Official Secrets, said: “The joy of the MI5 files are that many can be read as though they were a gripping spy novel. The difference is that these are the authentic, official records which give us rich layers of detail about famous espionage cases.
“Many people will have heard of the Cambridge Five, Klaus Fuchs and the atomic spies, or the double cross agents of the Second World War, but we will also be highlighting the astonishing work of dedicated MI5 officers, like Major ‘Tin Eye’ Stephens and Jane Sissmore, the first female MI5 officer, who tirelessly investigated espionage suspects. And even the work of the Girl Guides who acted as messengers in the early years.”
Other individuals being highlighted include, Vernon Kell, MI5’s first and longest serving director, and William Melville, a man who could be described as a founding father of MI5 investigations, while explorations of the Portland Spy Ring, the infiltration of the Communist Party of Great Britain, and the evolution of spy methods and surveillance techniques will provide visitors with new insights into Britain’s intelligence work.
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