A new exhibition in London is putting the spotlight on the women of punk — the musicians, artists and agitators who are so often reduced to footnotes in a story usually told through male bands. Secret London has shared a video tour of the show, giving a walkthrough of what visitors can expect before they go.
Punk's history is inseparable from London. The movement erupted here in the mid-1970s, with King's Road boutiques, small venues and self-released records turning a scrappy subculture into a global phenomenon. But alongside the familiar names, women were central to the scene: fronting bands, making zines and collage art, designing clothes and documenting everything from the inside. Exhibitions like this one exist to correct the record, gathering photography, posters, fashion and memorabilia that show how much of punk's DIY attitude was driven by women who were often denied the headline slots.
For visitors, the appeal is twofold. First, the chance to see original artefacts — gig flyers, hand-made clothing, photographs from the era — rather than reproductions. Second, the context: punk in London was never just about music, and shows like this tend to weave in the fashion, politics and street culture of 1970s Britain, which makes it a genuinely useful stop for anyone interested in the city's recent history, not just its music.
It also pairs naturally with a walk through the parts of London where the scene happened. Chelsea's King's Road, Soho's record shops and the West End venues that hosted early punk gigs are all within reach, so you can build a proper punk-themed day out around the exhibition. Travellers short on time could combine it with the nearby museums of South Kensington or a wander through central London, since punk history is scattered all over the centre of the city.
If you're planning a culture-focused city break, an exhibition like this is a good anchor: it's indoor (a London weather hedge), it's a finite commitment of an hour or two, and it gives you a lens on the city that goes beyond the usual royal-and-landmark itinerary. Check opening dates and ticket prices before travelling, as smaller exhibitions often run for a limited season only and can close earlier than the big institutional shows. Secret London is the original source for this story.
