Queer Britain Museum Reopens with Expanded Exhibits on LGBTQ+ History
The United Kingdom's sole museum dedicated to LGBTQ+ history, Queer Britain, is set to reopen this week after a brief closure for redevelopment. Located at 2 Granary Square in King's Cross, the museum will welcome visitors from Wednesday, February 4, 2026, with a significantly enhanced offering of displays and exhibitions.
A Unique Cultural Space in the UK
Since its initial launch in King's Cross in 2022, Queer Britain has remained the only museum in the entire country focused exclusively on LGBTQ+ history. This unique status underscores its importance as a cultural institution, providing a vital platform for exploring and celebrating queer narratives. The museum closed at the end of November for redevelopment, and its relaunch marks a pivotal moment in its evolution.
New Displays and Themes
The relaunched space features a collections gallery divided into six distinct themes, each spotlighting an individual story in British queer history. These themes will rotate on a rolling basis to keep the content fresh and engaging. The new displays include:
- Resist! – This display focuses on the story of London's Black Lesbian and Gay Centre, highlighting activism and community efforts.
- Queer Kids – It explores the Women's Liberation music-making movement of the 1970s and 1980s, showcasing cultural contributions.
- Body and Mind – Aiming to reclaim narratives around LGBTQ+ experiences of health, illness, and disability, this display features a panel from the UK AIDS Memorial Quilt.
- Live, Laugh, Love – Telling stories of queer domesticity and relationships, with a focus on Bloomsbury group members Lytton Strachey and Dora Carrington.
- The World Around Us – Examining the wider place of queer life in society, opening with the story of Justin Fashanu, the first openly gay professional footballer.
- Club Kids – Celebrating alternative ways of coming together, in collaboration with South Asian LGBTQ+ space Club Kali.
Special Temporary Exhibitions
In addition to the permanent displays, Queer Britain has planned a rich lineup of special temporary exhibitions. From February to May, visitors can enjoy Queer Print, an exhibition on radical and alternative print cultures, and 40 Years of BFI Flare. Later in the year, the museum will partner with alcohol brand Diageo to explore progressive advertising and campaigns from brands like Smirnoff, Guinness, and Johnnie Walker. Other highlights include an exhibition of portraits by Mariano Vivanco titled Trans is Human and an installation featuring A Gay Song, believed to be the first LGBTQ+ protest song.
What to Expect
With over 200 objects on show, sourced from collections such as the National Football Museum and the Women's Liberation Music Awards, the museum offers a diverse and immersive experience. Topics range from explorations of LGBTQ+ protest music to stories of gay representation in sport, ensuring there is something for everyone. Admission is on a pay what you can basis, with tickets available for advance booking. Throughout the year, more exhibitions will be announced, along with a host of workshops, panel discussions, and screenings to engage visitors further.
Conclusion
The reopening of Queer Britain represents a significant step forward in the preservation and celebration of LGBTQ+ history in the UK. By offering accessible and dynamic exhibits, the museum continues to foster understanding and appreciation of queer culture, making it a must-visit destination in London's cultural landscape.
