Step into Walford right here in Borehamwood to celebrate 40 years of EastEnders.
Adam Woodyatt, who plays Ian Beale in Eastenders, formally opened Elstree and Borehamwood Museum's latest exhibition, which marks the 40th anniversary of Britain’s most famous soap opera.
Set in the fictional East London borough of Walford, the show has made household names of its characters and immortalised its most iconic landmarks – The Queen Vic pub and bustling market, which have both been lovingly recreated by volunteers.
Visitors can relive the drama of Albert Square with original objects, costumes, and interactive displays that bring Walford to life.
Exhibition highlights include:
- Original props including the infamous murder weapon on Christmas Day 2023 to Pat Butcher’s earrings.
- Two costumes worn by well-known cast members, on display for the first time.
- Panels on iconic cliff-hangers, revisiting the moments that kept millions glued to their screens.
- Items from the landmark live episode broadcast in February 2025 – including a 20 minute ‘behind the scenes’ documentary about filming the 40th anniversary live episode.
Showstoppers, built by museum volunteers, include a full-scale replica of the Queen Vic bar, complete with BBC-supplied wallpaper and the iconic ‘Queen Vic’ bust – so, why not pop along, pretend to pull a pint, to become landlord or lady!
There is also a replica of Martin Fowler’s market stall where visitors can pose for photos, and hear echoes of some of Walford’s most famous phrases, from “Leave it out!” to “Get out of my pub!”
The exhibition has been created in close partnership with the BBC, who have generously loaned objects and supplied exclusive images to showcase the history of Albert Square.
Dave Armitage, Museum Manager, said: “We’re proud to celebrate 40 years of EastEnders here in Borehamwood, where it has been filmed at BBC Elstree since the very beginning. This exhibition is both a tribute to the show’s incredible cultural impact and to our community’s part in its story. Whether you’ve watched from day one, remember Den and Angie’s bust-ups, or just love the Queen Vic, there’s something here for everyone.”
Councillor Chris Myers, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene, Parks, Leisure and Culture, said: "This is such a wonderful exhibition celebrating 40 years of EastEnders. Our borough is immensely proud to have been the home of Albert Square for so many years, and this exhibition is a fitting tribute to that legacy. Thanks to the incredible dedication of our volunteers, visitors can step behind the scenes, explore original props and costumes, and relive the unforgettable drama of Walford.”
The exhibition was formally opened by the Mayor of Hertsmere, Cllr Alpha Bird Collins and Adam Woodyatt, who plays Ian Beale in Eastenders, on Wednesday 3 September. They were joined by museum volunteers and local community representatives.
At the opening Adam wrote in the visitors book: "So many memories. It’s fantastic. Needs to be permanent!"
The exhibition is running until 9 May 2026.
Admission is free. The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between midday and 6pm, and Saturday between 10am and 3pm.
To find out more please visit: elstree-museum.org.uk