The United Kingdom is preparing for a rich cultural season this autumn and winter with a lineup of significant exhibitions. These events will showcase historical treasures, renowned art, and beloved animation.
Historical and Artistic Highlights
A major attraction will be the Bayeux Tapestry, an artifact nearly 1,000 years old, returning to England for an exhibition at the British Museum from September 2026 to July 2027. The tapestry, which details the Norman conquest of England, is considered one of the most important historical items in the country. Tickets for this exhibition reportedly sold out quickly, with opportunities to join a mailing list for future releases.
Also featured is "Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life In Style" at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, running from April 10, 2026, to April 17, 2027. This exhibition will display clothing spanning the late Queen's life, including her wedding dress and signature hats, offering insight into a less-discussed aspect of her public image.
The National Gallery will host "Van Eyck: The Portraits" from November 21, 2026, to April 11, 2027, bringing together for the first time all known portraits by the Northern Renaissance artist Jan van Eyck, known as a pioneer of oil painting. The exhibition will include the "Arnolfini Portrait."
"Renoir and Love," also at the National Gallery from October 3, 2026, to January 31, 2027, will explore themes of romance and affection in the Impressionist painter's work, with his iconic "Bal au Moulin de la Galette" as a central piece.
Diverse Artistic and Cultural Displays
Art enthusiasts can also look forward to "Hokusai’s Thirty-six views of Mount Fuji from the luchi Collection," which promises to showcase the artist's masterful use of color and perspective, including the renowned "Under the Wave off Kanagawa."
Contemporary art will be represented by Frank Bowling’s "Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show," exhibiting works from his 70-year career that track his transition from figurative to abstract styles. Another contemporary exhibition, "The 90s: Art and Fashion," curated by Edward Enninful OBE at Tate Britain from October 8, 2026, to February 14, 2027, will examine the relationship between art and fashion during that transformative decade.
Frida Kahlo's legacy will be explored in "Frida: The Making of an Icon," featuring over 30 of her works alongside personal items and works by artists she inspired. This exhibition aims to offer insight into the artist and her lasting cultural impact.
Animation and Global Art
For animation fans, Bristol studio Aardman will celebrate its 50th anniversary with an exhibition showcasing the claymation techniques behind characters like Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Morph.
Global art will be represented by "Korea" at the British Museum, running from October 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027. This exhibition will draw from a collection of over 23,000 artifacts, spanning two millennia of Korean art and society, from ancient Buddhist sculptures to contemporary works.
Finally, "Marc Chagall: The Circus" at The Hepworth Wakefield from November 21, 2026, to April 25, 2027, will delve into the artist's circus-themed works through paintings, lithographs, and writings.