London’s exhibition calendar for 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years.
From major modern art blockbusters and fashion retrospectives to immersive storytelling and long-awaited cultural openings, the capital’s museums and galleries are pulling out all the stops.
Whether you’re planning museum weekends months in advance like me or quietly building a must-see list for the year ahead, here’s my curated guide to the London exhibitions (and openings) I’m most excited about in 2026.
Table of Contents
1. Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends
Young V&A, Bethnal Green | Opens 12th February 2026
Aardman’s unmistakable claymation magic arrives at the Young V&A in early 2026, promising a joyful, behind-the-scenes look at beloved characters like Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and friends.
Expect sketches, models, and plenty of hands-on, family-friendly moments… though let’s be honest, this one will delight adults just as much as children.
Personally, I think I’m most excited to see this one out of all the 2026 exhibitions!
More information on the Young V&A website.
2. Tracey Emin: A Second Life
Tate Modern | 27 Feb – 31 August 2026
Tracey Emin returns to the Tate Modern with a major exhibition opening in February.
Known for her raw, confessional approach and deeply personal subject matter, this exhibition will feature her famous My Bed installation from the 90’s, alongside other pieces from her 40-year career.
One for anyone interested in contemporary British art that refuses to play it safe.
More information on the Tate website.
3. Samurai
British Museum | 3 February – 4 May 2026
The British Museum turns its focus to the history, culture, and enduring story of the Samurai.
Expect armour, weapons, and material culture that explores both the lived reality and the romanticised legacy of Japan’s warrior class. A visually striking exhibition with serious historical depth.
More information on the British Museum website.
4. Frida Kahlo: The Making of an Icon
Tate Modern | 25 June 2026 – 3 Jan 2027
Okay, I said the Aardman exhibition was the one I’m most looking forward to, but this one might just take the top spot.
A major Frida Kahlo exhibition is always a moment, and Tate Modern’s 2026 show is set to be one of the year’s biggest draws, featuring over 130 pieces.
Expect an exploration of Kahlo’s art, identity, politics, disability and legacy.
More information on the Tate website.
5. Fairy Tales
British Library | 27 March – 23 August 2026
This one looks dreamy!
The British Library dives into the magic of fairy tales, featuring the iconic characters and stories we all remember from childhood.
This exhibition promises beautiful books, illustrations, costumes and theatrical design. Apparently it’s interactive, too.
One for families and book lovers alike to enjoy.
More information on the British Library website.
6. Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art
V&A | 28th March – 1st November 2026
One of the most anticipated fashion exhibitions of the year, this V&A blockbuster will explore Elsa Schiaparelli’s surreal, boundary-pushing designs and her collaborations with artists like Salvador Dalí.
Expect drama, bold silhouettes, and fashion firmly positioned as art.
More information on the V&A website.
7. Hurvin Anderson
Tate Britain | 26 March – 23 August 2026
Hurvin Anderson’s richly atmospheric paintings take centre stage at Tate Britain in spring 2026.
Known for his exploration of memory, place, and identity, this exhibition should offer a thoughtful counterpoint to the year’s larger blockbuster shows.
His work is truly stunning, I’m excited to spend an afternoon admiring it.
More information on the Tate website.
8. The Music Is Black: A British Story
V&A East | Opens 18th April 2026
Opening at the brand new V&A East, The Music Is Black tells the story of Black British music and its profound cultural impact.
From jazz and reggae to grime and beyond, this exhibition is perfect for music lovers.
More information on the V&A website.
9. Henry Moore: Monumental Nature
Kew Gardens | 9 May 2026 – 31 January 2027
Henry Moore’s monumental sculptures will be displayed throughout the landscapes of Kew Gardens, creating a dialogue between art and nature.
Outdoor sculpture exhibitions are always a joy, and this one feels ideal for slow summer wandering.
As if I needed another excuse to head to Kew!
More information on the Kew Gardens website.
10. Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait
National Portrait Gallery | 4 June – 6 September 2026
A deep dive into the image, myth, and reality of Marilyn Monroe, hosted by the National Portrait Gallery.
Expect iconic photographs alongside lesser-known portraits that explore how Monroe’s image was constructed, consumed, and reinterpreted over time.
More information on the National Portrait Gallery website.
11. The Bayeux Tapestry!
British Museum | September 2026
One of the most significant cultural moments of the year: the Bayeux Tapestry will be displayed at the British Museum for the first time in 900 years!
This is a genuinely once-in-a-generation opportunity to see one of the most important surviving artworks of the medieval world in London.
I expect we’ll need to be quick getting tickets for this one!
Press Release on the British Museum website.
12. Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style
The King’s Gallery | 10 April – 18 October 2026
This exhibition explores the fashion and visual identity of Queen Elizabeth II, from ceremonial dress to personal style.
Expect garments, accessories, and archival material that chart how clothing became part of the late Queen’s public image.
Many of the 200 items will be on display for the first time.
More information on the Royal Collection Trust website.
13. Agatha Christie
British Library | 30 October 2026 – 20 June 2027
Opening towards the end of the year, this British Library exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of Agatha Christie.
Manuscripts, notebooks, and personal items will offer insight into the world’s most famous crime writer.
Sounds like the perfect autumn/winter museum outing to me!
More information on the British Library website.
New London Museum Spaces Opening in 2026
Not only do Londoners and visitors get to enjoy the incredible line-up of exhibitions, but we’ll also be treated to three major new museum and gallery spaces!
Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration
Clerkenwell | May 2026
One of the most exciting cultural openings of the year, the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration will open its doors in May.
Dedicated to illustration in all its forms, this new centre is a major win for visual storytelling and children’s literature in London.
I can’t wait to check it out.
More information on their website.
London Museum
Smithfield | Late 2026
The much-anticipated London Museum (formerly known as the Museum of London) is slated to open at the end of this year, having closed their Barbican site to move to the historic Smithfield Market.
It’s been a long process with all the renovation work (not to mention collections management!), but it’s sure to be an incredible new cultural site for the city.
More information on their website.
V&A East
Stratford | Opening 18th April 2026
V&A East is one of the most significant new museum openings in London for years.
Located in Stratford, it builds on the momentum of the nearby V&A East Storehouse, which opened in 2025 and quickly established itself as a fresh, accessible way to experience museum collections.
With a major exhibition programme and a focus on underrepresented stories, V&A East is set to become a major new arts and culture destination in East London.
Exhibitions Already Open and Worth Catching in 2026
If you’re planning early-year museum visits, these exhibitions are already open but will continue well into 2026:
- Marie Antoinette Style – V&A (closes March 2026).
- Wes Anderson: The Archives – Design Museum (until 26 July 2026).
- Our Story with David Attenborough – Natural History Museum (until August 2026).
From claymation nostalgia and medieval masterpieces to fashion, music, and modern art, London’s 2026 exhibition programme offers something for every kind of museum-goer.
Whether you’re chasing blockbusters or seeking quieter, more reflective shows, this is a year that rewards curiosity… and a well-organised diary.