We visited The Real Crime Museum on a humid day, and unfortunately, the weather wasn’t the only thing dampening our experience. The place was full of massive black flies, mouldy exhibits and the thick air inside the museum didn’t help either.
The exhibits, or should I say displays, left much to be desired. While some were nicely put together, it was evident that they were primarily there to fill space where actual items were lacking. The authenticity of the exhibits was questionable.
The highlight (or lowlight) of our visit was the sweaty cinema room at the back, where Dennis Nilsen interviews played. The abundance of Charles Bronson items, including original artwork and mannequins adorned in wedding clothes, was overwhelming. The TV in the corner playing an interview from ITV’s ‘This Morning’ with Bronson’s son felt like an odd choice.
Several sets scattered throughout the museum attempted to capture the essence of true crime, such as a meth lab behind condensation-covered glass and an exhibit on the acid bath killer. Unfortunately, these sets lacked sufficient information about the crimes, leaving visitors with more questions than answers. The prison cell, complete with a real cell door and toilet, was a noteworthy inclusion.
On a positive note, the staff deserves praise. The enthusiastic greeting from the man at the entrance, who informed us about the UK’s most wanted gallery and offered assistance with any questions, was appreciated.
It’s evident that the museum is a passion project, there’s plenty to see, but doubts persist regarding the authenticity of the exhibits. With a prime location on Torquay harbourside, a little investment could elevate this museum into something truly great. While it may not be a must-visit for everyone, fans of true crime might find it worth exploring, provided they can overlook some of its shortcomings.
