London’s cultural calendar for 2026 is shaping up to be truly exceptional. From world class retrospectives to immersive contemporary showcases, our events team has handpicked the top 10 exhibitions you need to see in 2026.
Drawing on insider knowledge from our planners who regularly work across London’s most iconic galleries and museums, this is your curated guide to the exhibitions set to inspire, surprise and delight – whether you’re visiting for leisure or dreaming up your next unforgettable event.
1. Design Museum
WES ANDERSON: THE ARCHIVES (21st November 2025 – 26th July 2026)
We recently delivered a Wes Anderson themed event at the Design Museum and had so much fun recreating his whimsical world through a bespoke menu (yes, including the Courtesan au Chocolat), this exhibition is firmly at the top of our list.
This landmark retrospective, produced in collaboration with La Cinémathèque Française, charts the evolution of Anderson’s distinctive cinematic style from his early experiments in the 1990s to his most recent productions. Expect a deep dive into the design stories behind films such as The Grand Budapest Hotel, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Isle of Dogs and The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.
2. National Portrait Gallery
MARILYN MONROE: A PORTRAIT (4th June – 6th September 2026)
We’re lucky to work at the National Portrait Gallery regularly and are often invited to private views (one of the many perks of our job!) This exhibition, marking Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday, is one we are particularly excited about.
Bringing together works by Andy Warhol, Cecil Beaton, Richard Avedon, Audrey Flack, Eve Arnold and many more, the exhibition explores Monroe’s life, career and legacy through photography, film and fine art. Personal belongings including scripts, books and clothing will also be on display, offering a rare insight into the woman behind the icon.
We know we said Top 10… but we can’t mention the NPG without also flagging Tim Walker’s Fairyland: Love and Legends (8 October 2026 – January 2027). The team are already planning a visit – and a thorough browse of the gift shop for prints!
3. Science Museum
We were one of the first companies to host an event in this gallery, welcoming astronauts as guest speakers for an experience that was as memorable as it was fitting.
This spectacular exhibition brings together extraordinary objects celebrating both the first space age and the future of space exploration. Visitors can expect to see:
- Two human-flown spacecraft (Apollo 10 and Soyuz) displayed side by side
- The radio headset used by Neil Armstrong during Apollo 11
- Helen Sharman’s Sokol spacesuit
- An RL10 rocket engine
- A three-billion-year-old piece of the moon
It’s a powerful, immersive experience and one you don’t want to miss.
4. Royal Museums Greenwich – National Maritime Museum
ZWO ASTRONOMY PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR (12th September 2025 – 3 August 2026)
The world’s largest astronomy photography competition returns with another breathtaking exhibition. Showcasing extraordinary images of galaxies, auroras and celestial phenomena from around the globe, this is a visual feast for all ages.
And let’s be honest – Greenwich alone makes this worth the trip. A perfect Sunday: exhibition, park stroll, coffee and pastry in hand!
5. The Wallace Collection
CARAVAGGIO’S CUPID (26th November 2025 – 12th April 2026)
Victorious Cupid, on special loan from Berlin’s Gemäldegalerie and never before seen in the UK, takes centre stage in this exhibition. Presented alongside ancient Roman sculptures from the same historic collection, it’s a rare opportunity to see Caravaggio’s work in such a rich context.
We recently held an event here just before Christmas and the atmosphere was truly magical. It’s also the ultimate Valentine’s Day date idea – nothing more romantic than being transported to 17th-century Rome together.
6. The National Gallery
RENOIR AND LOVE (3rd October 2026 – 31st January 2027)
The National Gallery will host its most significant Renoir exhibition in over 20 years, featuring more than 50 works by the French Impressionist. Highlights include Bal au Moulin de la Galette, which will be exhibited in the UK for the first time.
Having delivered many extraordinary events at this venue, we can’t help but imagine a candlelit dinner followed by private access to these masterpieces. Truly unforgettable!
7. Serpentine Galleries
DAVID HOCKNEY (12th March – 23rd August 2026)
One of the most influential artists of our time, David Hockney brings new work to Serpentine in an exhibition created specifically for the space. His ninety-metre-long frieze A Year in Normandie will be shown in London for the first time. This work is inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry – the Tapestry will be displayed at the British Museum in a historic loan agreement between the UK and France from September 2026 to July 2027.
Set within Kensington Gardens, the exhibition creates a beautiful dialogue between art and nature.
8. London Transport Museum
ART DECO: THE GOLDEN AGE OF POSTER DESIGN (21st November 2025 – Spring 2027)
A little different and that’s exactly why we love it. This exhibition explores how art deco shaped London Transport’s design heritage, marking 100 years since the pivotal 1925 Paris Exhibition.
With over 100 original posters, unseen artworks and architectural insights into Charles Holden’s iconic Tube stations, it’s a must-see for design lovers. The venue also works brilliantly for corporate receptions and celebrations.
9. Royal Academy of Arts
ROSE WYLIE OBE: LARGEST UK SURVEY TO DATE (28th February – 19th April 2026)
The Royal Academy always have incredible exhibits on, but this Rose Wylie exhibition is one our team is especially excited about. Her bold, expressive work blends pop culture, history and personal experience, featuring figures from Elizabeth I to Serena Williams and Marilyn Monroe.
Expect colour, character and conversation starting pieces throughout.
10. Saatchi Gallery
THE LONG NOW (5th NOVEMBER 2025 – 1st MARCH 2026)
Described by Time Out as “one of the most expertly curated and deeply satisfying displays of contemporary art in London in recent memory” and we couldn’t agree more. Spanning two floors and nine galleries, the exhibition features installations, sculpture, painting and special commissions, culminating in Richard Wilson’s iconic 20:50.
Final Thoughts:
What makes all of these exhibitions even more special is that many of these venues are also available for private events. Imagine sipping champagne and enjoying canapes before a private view of the Marilyn Monroe exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, or dining beneath the masterpieces at the Wallace Collection.
By Word of Mouth specialises in creating unforgettable experiences in extraordinary spaces and 2026 is full of inspiration.
To find out more about these venues click here: Event & Party Venues | Venue Finding | By Word of Mouth London