The museums of Kensington are among London’s finest gems, offering visitors a fascinating look at natural history, art and design, scientific progress and more. In addition to these treasures, Kensington Palace offers a glimpse into royal life through the ages. Between them all there are some exciting exhibits coming up in 2026. Here, we take a look at the best.
Blitz: The Club that Shaped the 80s – Design Museum
The Design Museum’s Blitz: The Club that Shaped the 80s takes visitors back to the famous Covent Garden nightclub which defined a generation. Run by Steve Strange and DJ Rusty Egan, the club became the birthplace of the New Romantic movement and shaped 1980s fashion, music, and pop culture. Expect outrageously dazzling outfits, bold visuals and intriguing stories of an era-defining underground scene. This exhibition runs until March 29, 2026.
David Hockney – Serpentine North Gallery
From 12 March 2026, Serpentine North Gallery is hosting the work of David Hockney, one of the most influential artists of our time. The exhibition invites viewers to slow down and notice the extraordinary within the everyday, showcasing new paintings that extend Hockney’s lifelong fascination with the act of looking. Highlights include the artist’s celebrated ninety-metre-long frieze A Year in Normandy, which was inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry.
The Last Princesses of Punjab – Kensington Palace
Head to one of London’s most iconic landmarks for a truly unique exhibition titled The Last Princesses of Punjab. Opening in March 2026, it offers visitors a chance to learn more about the lives of Punjabi princesses including Sophia Duleep Singh, a suffragette and the god daughter of Queen Victoria. This show combines royal history with themes of activism, identity and empire, offering a fresh perspective on Britain’s multicultural past.
Exhibition highlights include an exploration of the life of Sophia Duleep Singh and her sisters and mother, as well as details of her grandmother, the last Queen of the Sikh Empire. It also explores her relationship with Queen Victoria, who shaped Sophia’s upbringing and exposed her to royal circles.
Why not head out to an Indian restaurant in London afterwards to celebrate the Punjabi princesses with authentic Indian cuisine? Little India is just a ten minute walk from Kensington Palace, making it the perfect place to complete your day out.
Fixing Our Broken Planet – Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum opens its first permanent gallery since 2016 in April of 2026. Fixing Our Broken Planet explores the biggest challenges our planet faces and presents science-backed solutions that will help us live more sustainably. Designed to give hope to those feeling climate anxiety, it will inspire, amaze and excite.
Discover Indian cuisine nearby
After a day exploring the latest exhibitions, a hearty meal will refuel and refresh you. Our Little India food menuincludes favourites such as balti and chicken tikka alongside traditional dishes from the Indian subcontinent. All are made with the freshest ingredients and will transport you to Asia with every mouthful. Search ‘Little India restaurant near me’ while in Kensington and reserve your table.
