Like a huge chunk of the population, I am counting down the days until Captain Marvel and Avengers 4 hit the cinemas. Ok, we can re-re-re watch the almost two dozen films and various television shows associated with the franchise, but who wouldn’t want more? Who would refuse the opportunity to become an Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. for an evening? 

Therefore, on a cold, wet November evening, I was fortunate enough to have a run around the Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. at London’s Excel. It had been a long day, scuppered by train delays and appalling weather, but all of this fell away as soon as I set foot inside. 

The exhibition is composed of a props, costumes, and interactive displays allowing you to try out and essentially become an Agent. This element of interaction, for me, is key to elevating this fantastic exhibition to something much more than a static installation.

All rooms are themed, and I was immediately captivated by the sight of all Iron Man suits on entry. This was one of my favourite rooms — maybe my favourite — the sight of Tony Stark’s numerous iron suits side-by-side is probably one of my favourite/most impressive cinematic displays I have seen exhibited. It’s endearing to see the suits subtly change, like a flip book or sorts, as you move back and forth between them; a shift from the tin can style suit that Tony welded together when he was captured during the first Iron Man film, to the Mark 7 of Infinity War. Although the opportunity to try out a flight stimulator was tempting, I couldn’t tear myself away from these magnificent figures. 

The Captain America/Steve Rogers room was also tremendous fun, honouring his journey from the skinny bullied boy we see in 1940s Brooklyn to the strapping Captain we all know and love. It is, therefore, a very similar experience to watching The First Avenger — not a bad thing! — and the displays are tremendous. Plus, you get to sit on Cap’s Harley — who would refuse that?

However, I adored the holographic panels honouring the 1940s, particularly young Howard Stark and Agent Peggy Carter (my favourite). Images can’t quote capture those, so you gotta believe me not this one. 

Also on display are props and items from Black Panther, Ant-Man (including a wonderful hologram display!) as well as props and customs belonging to Black Widow, Hawkeye, and Vision. However, all sides are catered for, and fans of Loki are not left out. The “hall of villains”, including the Dark Elves, is also great fun. 

Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N is a wonderful event, and well worth a visit. The beauty of this exhibition is absolutely the interaction fans of all ages will have with the show — sitting the bike, posing with Cap’s shields, experiencing flight, touching Hulk’s massive hands, and battling Ultron. I had a ball running around taking photos and getting “in character”. What self-confessed superhero wouldn’t? 

Details, tickets and more information can be found via the official website.

A little more behind the scenes details (including footage of yours truly) can be found on my saved Instagram stories.