Seven Unmissable Exhibitions to Explore in London This Year
London is set to host a vibrant array of exhibitions in 2026, offering something for every interest, from animated adventures to royal fashion. If you're planning your cultural calendar, these seven displays are essential additions, featuring immersive experiences and rare artefacts that promise to captivate visitors.
1. Mundo Pixar Experience
Step into the enchanting worlds of Pixar's most beloved films at this multi-sensory exhibition in Wembley Park. The immersive display includes 14 spaces dedicated to recreating the magic of classics like Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Cars, and Finding Nemo. Running from February 13 onwards at Fulton Road, Wembley, HA9 0TF, with tickets priced at £29 for adults and £20 for children. The nearest Tube station is Wembley Park.
2. Ramses & the Pharaohs’ Gold
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view over 180 priceless artefacts from ancient Egypt, including items from the reign of Ramses, before they return to museums in Cairo. The exhibition is held at NEON, Battersea Power Station, 2 Circus Road East, SW11 8DQ, starting February 28. Tickets cost £24.55 for adults and £17.60 for children, with Battersea Power Station as the nearest Tube station.
3. Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends
Celebrate 50 years of Aardman Animations by stepping into the clay world of Wallace & Gromit at the Young V&A museum. This exhibition offers a behind-the-scenes look at production and character models, running from February 12 at Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA. Tickets are £11 for adults and children aged 4 and above, with Bethnal Green as the nearest Tube station.
4. Fairy Tales
Experience interactive displays and theatrical designs that bring famous fairy tales to life at the British Library. The exhibition, from March 27 to August 23, features books and artwork from renowned UK writers and illustrators. Located at 96 Euston Rd., London NW1 2DB, near King’s Cross Tube station, ticket details are yet to be announced.
5. Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style
Honour what would have been Queen Elizabeth II's 100th birthday with a display of her iconic fashion at the King’s Gallery in Buckingham Palace. From wedding and coronation dresses to colourful gowns, the exhibition runs from April 10 to October 18 at SW1A 1AA, with tickets at £22 for adults, £14 for young persons, and £11 for children. The nearest Tube station is St James’s Park.
6. Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait
The National Portrait Gallery marks Marilyn Monroe's 100th birthday with an exhibition exploring her life and legacy through photographs and artwork. Running from June 4 to September 2026 at St Martin's Place, WC2H 0HE, near Charing Cross Tube station, ticket information is pending.
7. Frida: The Making of an Icon
Tate Modern spotlights Frida Kahlo with over 130 pieces, including her own work, photographs, and memorabilia from her archives. The exhibition runs from June 25 to January 3, 2027, at Bankside, SE1 9TG, with Southwark as the nearest Tube station. Ticket details are to be confirmed.
These exhibitions highlight London's rich cultural scene, offering diverse experiences for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and families alike. Plan your visits early to secure tickets and immerse yourself in these captivating displays throughout the year.
