The frightening reality of a bomb blast is enhanced with the diffusion of an acrid, dusty, burning smell which hangs in the air around piles of broken rubble. Elsewhere visitors are encouraged to lift the lid on boxes containing associated smells. In the kitchen the unappetising aromas of ration foods can be experienced, while out in the yard clothes on a washing line introduce an old fashioned, simple, soapy fragrance. A garden scene representing the ‘Dig for Victory’ ethos is evoked with the damp, muddy smell of soil and compost.

— Seven Scent has recreated the smells of the Blitz for the exhibit Horrible Histories: Blitzed Brits at the Imperial War Museum North, in Manchester. The exhibit opens July 11 and runs through April of next year; admission is free. Read more at The smells of history at the Seven Scent website.