Current and upcoming British Museum exhibitions in 2026
- maxwell museums
- Jan 12, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 6
The British Museum’s 2026 exhibitions are likely to be some of the most popular in its history, and it’s mainly all thanks to the loan of the Bayeux Tapestry which will arrive in the autumn.
But there are also major exhibitions planned on the history of Japanese Samurai, as well as a fascinating look at the artistry and culture of Hawai'i. And with dozens of free displays throughout the year, and an 8-million strong collection, what’s on at the British Museum is a question on everyone’s lips.
And don’t just take my word for it, as I write this future exhibition guide in December 2025, take the word of the museum’s Chair George Osborne. “2026 is going to be the biggest year in the museum’s 273-year history” he recently told the Sunday Times newspaper. “With the Bayeux Tapestry arriving in [the] autumn we could potentially get seven and a half million visitors during the year.” If so, it would certainly mark a major reversal of the turmoil at the British Museum of recent years.
So here’s my guide that will help you navigate what’s on right now and what’s coming soon at the British Museum in London. Updated regularly, it’s your go-to for planning a trip to one of the world’s most-popular cultural destinations.
Quick links for the 2026 British Museum exhibitions:
Exhibitions open now at the British Museum
Hawaiʻi: a kingdom crossing oceans
This is billed as a “bold” new exhibition, which shines a light on the compelling history of Hawaiʻi and its long-standing ties with the UK. Hawaiʻi: a kingdom crossing oceans commemorates a tragic visit to London of Hawai'i’s King and Queen in 1824, and visitors can see 150 extraordinary objects and artworks. Among the highlights is a magnificent ʻahu ʻula (feathered cloak) sent in 1810 by the first king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III. It's the largest known example of its kind and it’s the first time it’s been shown in over 100 years. The critics really like it, with one review saying "the Hawai’i show at the British Museum is full of unexpected sights, big and small.” It runs until 25 May 2026.
"Royal razzmatazz” ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Times critic loved Hawaii at the British Museum. Here's my round up of reviews
Samurai
Prepared to have some myths busted in this major exhibition exploring the reality of Japan’s armour-clad warriors over the past 1,000 years. Samurai — which runs until 04 May 2026 — will bring around 280 items together, many of which will be on display for the very first time. Highlights include an exquisite suit of samurai armour, newly acquired by the British Museum, and a rare portrait of a 13-year-old samurai who led an embassy to the Vatican in 1582. As the first ever show to explore how the Samurai image and myth was created, there’ll also be contemporary pieces that range from a Louis Vuitton outfit inspired by Japanese armour, to the popular video game Assassin’s Creed: Shadows. “Magnificent” was the verdict in Laura Freeman's Times review.
Early Netherlandish drawings
110 rare artworks feature in this show that explores the significant period in European art where drawings made in the Low Countries became collectible and sought after in their own right. Early Netherlandish drawings displays northern-European artworks on paper that were made over 400 years ago. The drawings are all sourced from the British Museum’s own collection. And at the core of the exhibition are the findings of a five-year research project which has been the first in-depth study into this collection in nearly a century. This free exhibition which runs until 20 September 2026, and features artists including Rogier van der Weyden, Lucas van Leyden, Pieter Bruegel the elder, and Hendrick Goltzius.
Sufi: life and art
This small free display explores Sufi life and art through a selection of objects that represent Sufi communities in the Middle East, North and Sub-Saharan Africa, and northern India. Sufi is a mystical movement, which first appeared in the Islamic world during the eighth century AD, and has been defined as a pathway to a personal experience with God. On show until 26 July 2026, Sufi life and art displays objects from the British Museum’s collection, including alligraphic works, miniature paintings and wall tiles. The display is part of the larger Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic world.
Upcoming British Museum exhibitions
The Bayeux Tapestry
The Bayeux Tapestry exhibition needs no introduction — it will undoubtedly be the most popular and significant exhibition held in the UK this century. The "extraordinary" loan of the Bayeux Tapestry back to Britain for the first time since it was created nearly 1,000 years ago has already become a huge sensation ever since the news was announced as part of French President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to the UK in July 2025. We know little else of what will be included, but who needs more when you have the entire 70-metre Tapestry on show, a piece that depicts the 1066 Norman conquest and the Battle of Hastings. Dates of this show are still to be confirmed, but it's expected to open in September 2026.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the British Museum's 2026 exhibitions
Q: Are the British Museum’s exhibitions free in 2026?
For special exhibitions you will need to buy a ticket. These include the Hawaiʻi, Samurai and Bayeux Tapestry shows. But general admission to the museum’s permanent collection remains free for everyone. Some displays — including Early Netherlandish drawings and Sufi: life and art are also free to see.
Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance?
For these 2026 blockbusters, advance booking is highly recommended. Tickets for Hawai'i and Samurai are available to pre-book now. For the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition, you will absolutely need to book in advance. And do this as soon as tickets on go on sale, demand will be unprecedented.
Q: What time are the British Museum exhibitions open?
Special exhibitions are open daily 10.00 – 17.00 (last entry at 16.45) and on Fridays until 20.30 (last entry at 20.15). Staff begin clearing galleries 10 minutes before they close. For the Bayeux Tapestry exhibition, opening hours are yet to be announced. Due to its expected popularity, it’s likely special additional hours will be in place at times.
