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1.8 hours
The National Museum of Computing
Starting at GBP 14
Sat, 27 Sep, 2025 at 10:30 am to 12:15 pm (GMT+01:00)
The National Museum of Computing
Block H, Bletchley Park, Bletchley, United Kingdom
By popular demand! Join us for the second showing of "The Thing" at The National Museum of Computing - a captivating film that uncovers one of history's most astonishing espionage incidents.
“The Thing” is a documentary film uncovering the amazing story behind the Great American Seal Bug. This complex story of spying and counter spying, genius, betrayal, political wrangling and espionage is told in detail by John Little. These incredible events span 90 years including the two World Wars, the Cold War and involve three great nations of the United Kingdom, United States of America and Russia (USSR).
The film delves into the incredible story of the Great American Seal bug, starting with the birth of the inventor in 1886, his formative years during the Bolshevik Revolution, and his time in the USA. It explores the influence of the Cambridge Spies and the bug's discovery in 1952. In more contemporary times, "The Thing" also investigates the work of Peter Wright and Tony Sale, detailing their efforts to understand and counter this ingenious device.
The film vividly portrays the story of one of the first passive covert listening devices against the backdrop of H Block, Bletchley Park, adding a unique dimension to this tale of technological espionage.
Tickets also include day admission to view the world's largest collection of functional historic computers, including the Bombe and Colossus - the world's first electronic, digital computer.
Event Schedule:
About the Speaker:
John Little's connection to Bletchley Park and counter-surveillance is truly unique. His first visit to Bletchley Park was in 1962 as a Post Office Telephone Engineer. He later joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, working in Hut 3, Bletchley Park (Diplomatic Wireless Service). In 1978, he left the FCO to start a company specialising in counter surveillance – de-bugging. His office was moved to H Block approximately 20 years ago, and later to E Block.
Image credit: Shearwater TSCM
Also check out other Entertainment events in Bletchley.
Tickets for The Great American Seal Bug - the full story can be booked here.
| Ticket type | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Adult Admission (16+) | 17 GBP |
| Concession Admission (60+/Students) | 14 GBP |
| Family Day Ticket (2 Adults and up to 3 Children) | 44 GBP |
