Whether you’re interested in fossils and nature, technology, historic artefacts or the wonders of our galaxy, make 2026 your year to take in more culture in London. Few parts of the capital reward curiosity quite like South Kensington, where world-class institutions sit close together, daring you to say, “Just one more exhibit.” Here are our picks for must-see exhibitions this year.
Space Gallery – Science Museum
If you’ve not had a chance to visit the Science Museum’s new Space gallery, 2026 is the time to do so. Free to see, it showcases new technologies from the UK space sector, as well as a three-billion-year-old piece of the moon and the Apollo 10 command module. Stargazers and aspiring astronauts alike will be captivated.
Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth? – Natural History Museum
If the Science Museum’s new Space gallery isn’t enough to satisfy your love of the extraterrestrial, head to the Natural History Museum to enjoy its exhibition about life beyond our planet. Ending on 22 February 2026, it offers the chance to smell other planets, touch pieces of Mars and the moon, and learn everything scientists know so far about alien life.
Wes Anderson: The Archives – Design Museum
Running until 26 July 2026, the Design Museum presents the opportunity to delve into Wes Anderson’s extraordinary archive. This richly detailed retrospective offers insight into the beloved filmmaker’s meticulously constructed visual worlds, displaying over 700 objects including storyboards, models, puppets and costumes.
Water Pantanal Fire – Science Museum
From February to May 2026 the Science Museum is hosting a thought-provoking photography exhibition that explores the beauty and fragility of the Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland. You’ll discover both the breathtaking natural beauty of the area as well as the threats it faces from deforestation and climate change, documented by Lalo de Almeida and Luciano Candisani.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year – Natural History Museum
Once again, the Natural History Museum is playing host to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Open until 12 July 2026, this prestigious competition showcases the work of international photographers who have set out to capture the wonder, drama and complexity of nature. You’ll see the top 100 images, displayed alongside insightful captions that highlight the importance of our connection with the natural world.
American Photographs – Victoria & Albert Museum
Photography is a key theme for the early part of 2026, with the V&A showcasing the work of photographers from across the United States, including Walker Evans, Mark Ruwedel and Cindy Sherman. The exhibition, which runs until 16 May, examines how photography has documented and shaped the nation and its image-making traditions.
Refresh with Little India
If the exhibitions at London’s museums have sparked your curiosity, and the bustle of South Kensington has captivated you, why not stop at an India restaurant in London to round off your day? At Little India, food that’s authentic to the Indian subcontinent is our speciality, and we serve our carefully prepared dishes with pride. Search ‘Little India restaurant near me’ when in the area and visit us for mouthwatering cuisine and good old-fashioned service.
