Lara Croft returns home to celebrate 30 Years of Tomb Raider
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
The British city of Derby, the birthplace of Tomb Raider, is preparing to open a unique exhibition dedicated to Lara Croft’s 30-year history.
Titled “Lara Croft: 30 Years On – From Derby to Global Icon,” the exhibition will open this Friday, July 24, at Pickford’s House, whose rooms will be transformed to recreate the atmosphere of the iconic Croft Manor. 🏰
The exhibition has been co-created by our colleague and friend Luke Earle, a writer, narrative designer, video game producer, and one of the leading figures working to preserve the legacy of Tomb Raider in Derby. Luke is also the organizer of the popular Tomb Raider Day, an annual event that brings fans, actors, official Lara Croft models, and former Core Design developers from around the world to the city.
👀 The exhibition will feature around 400 historic objects and materials, including:
💻 One of the computers used by Core Design to develop the first five Tomb Raider games.
🎮 Original development materials provided by former members of the studio.
👗 Mannequins, costumes, and different representations of Lara Croft.
🥤 Promotional Lucozade bottles, affectionately known by fans as “Larazade.”
🇯🇵 Japanese video game posters.
🎬 Correspondence connected to the production of the films starring Angelina Jolie.
📰 A 1997 issue of the British magazine The Face, featuring Lara Croft on the cover.
🏺 Promotional items, memorabilia, and pieces from private collections.
The exhibition will also include interactive activities and special cosplay days, giving visitors the chance to explore Pickford’s House dressed as their favorite characters and take photographs inside the historic building.
Since making her debut in 1996, Lara Croft has evolved from an adventurer made of just a few polygons into one of the most recognizable and influential characters in video game history. Now, she is returning to Derby, the city where her story began, to celebrate three decades of adventure. ❤️
📍 Pickford’s House — 41 Friar Gate, Derby, United Kingdom
📅 July 24 to November 28, 2026
🗓️ Tuesday to Saturday
⏰ 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
🎟️ Free admission
An essential visit for every Lara Croft fan and a unique opportunity to discover how a creation born in Derby went on to become a true global icon.
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