Must See London Exhibitions 2026 | Stay Close to the Art with Red Carnation Hotels

London’s cultural calendar is as rich and imaginative as ever, with world‑class exhibitions unfolding across the capital’s most prestigious museums and galleries. From couture elevated to fine art and photography that captures the wild heart of nature, to immersive family‑friendly experiences and cinematic design, these are the exhibitions shaping London’s creative conversation this year.Curated with our hotels perfectly placed at their heart, here is our edit of the capital’s most unmissable exhibitions.A Curated Guide to What’s On Across the CapitalSchiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art at the V&A South KensingtonCloses Sunday 8th NovemberMoments from Egerton House HotelBold, surreal and unapologetically artistic, Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art celebrates the couture house that transformed fashion into a form of fine art. Showcasing sculptural silhouettes, exquisite craftsmanship and the creative legacy of Elsa Schiaparelli, this exhibition explores the enduring dialogue between fashion, art and imaginative expression.Just moments from the museum, Egerton House Hotel enjoys a long‑standing partnership with the Victoria & Albert Museum, the world’s leading museum of art and design. Through this exclusive relationship, guests of Egerton House receive complimentary tickets to the V&A’s feature exhibitions, including Schiaparelli — even when exhibitions are sold out.Guests are also invited to experience the museum as insiders, with a VIP card offering:· Priority entry via the members’ queue· Access to the V&A Members’ Lounge, a calm and elegant space to relax· Entry to all temporary exhibitions· 10% discount in the V&A shopIt is an experience of London culture at its most refined — seamlessly blending world‑class fashion exhibitions with the discreet luxury and personal service of Egerton House Hotel.Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style at The Kings GalleryCloses 18th October 2026Opposite The Rubens at the PalaceDirectly opposite Buckingham Palace, The Rubens at the Palace offers an unrivalled vantage point for this intimate exploration of Queen Elizabeth II’s style legacy. From iconic coronation gowns to moments of off‑duty elegance, the exhibition reveals how fashion became a powerful symbol throughout Her Majesty’s reign - a deeply resonant experience when enjoyed just moments from the Palace itself.To make a truly fitting day of it, why not enjoy Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens before or after your visit? Set within the elegant Palace Lounge, guests can relax in a charming setting with panoramic views overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace.Savour our classic Royal Afternoon Tea, featuring freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches and exquisite pastries, or treat younger guests to our Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea, complete with bite‑size sandwiches, sweet treats and a choice of milkshake, hot chocolate, tea or soft drink.An effortlessly regal way to experience London’s royal heritage - on your doorstep.Fairy Tales at The British LibraryCloses 23rd AugustA short walk from The Montague on the GardensStep into the enchanted worlds of folklore, myth and magic at the British Library’s Fairy Tales exhibition. Exploring stories across cultures and centuries, the exhibition reveals how fairy tales shape our imagination. Perfectly placed moments away, The Montague on the Gardens makes an ideal base for families, dreamers and literary lovers alike.The Bayeux Tapestry at The British MuseumOpens September 2026Neighbouring The Montague on the GardensOne of history’s most extraordinary artworks returns to public view. This landmark exhibition presents the legendary Bayeux Tapestry, narrating the Norman Conquest with remarkable detail. Its arrival at the British Museum cements Bloomsbury’s status as a cultural heart — with The Montague offering a refined retreat just moments away.Tracey Emin: A Second Life at the Tate ModernUntil 31st August 2026Only a short tube journey away from our London hotelsRaw, emotive and deeply personal, Tracey Emin’s exhibition explores themes of loss, survival and rebirth. A powerful reflection of her practice across painting, sculpture and installation, it’s a must for contemporary art lovers seeking work that resonates well beyond the gallery walls.Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends at the Young V&AUntil 15th NovemberOnly a short tube journey away from our London hotelsA joyful celebration of one of Britain’s most beloved animation studios, this exhibition reveals the artistry, humour and ingenuity behind Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and friends. From original sets to behind‑the‑scenes sketches, it’s a nostalgic and playful experience, perfect for visitors of all ages.David Hockney: A Year in Normandie at the Serpentine GalleriesUntil 23rd AugustA nice walk from The Milestone Hotel & ResidencesSeen through Hockney’s vivid palette and joyful mark‑making, this exhibition captures the rhythms of nature across a single year in Normandy. Just moments from Hyde Park and the Serpentine, guests of The Milestone can seamlessly blend art, greenery and classic London elegance.Wes Anderson: The Archives at The Design MuseumUntil 26th JulyA nice walk From The Milestone Hotel & ResidencesMeticulously curated and unmistakably cinematic, Wes Anderson: The Archives offers an immersive look into the director’s visual universe. Original costumes, props and storyboards reveal the precision behind films beloved for their symmetry, colour and detail — an essential exhibition for design and film enthusiasts.Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Natural History MuseumUntil 12th JulyMoments from The Milestone Hotel & ResidencesA firm favourite, this annual exhibition showcases breathtaking images that capture the beauty and fragility of the natural world. From dramatic wildlife moments to intimate environmental portraits, it’s a powerful and moving experience, moments away from The Milestone.Mundo Pixar at the Wembley ParkUntil 28th JunePerfect for families - Only a short tube journey away from our London hotelsAn immersive, large‑scale experience bringing Pixar’s most loved worlds to life. From Toy Story to Finding Nemo, Mundo Pixar is designed for families, offering interactive sets, familiar characters and unforgettable photo moments — a magical highlight for younger guests visiting London. Discover London, With the Perfect Place to Stay As London’s exhibition calendar continues to inspire visitors of all ages, where you stay becomes part of the experience. Our London collection of hotels offers more than just a place to rest - each is perfectly positioned to explore the city with ease, comfort and confidence. From curious families discovering their first gallery visit to seasoned explorers seeking world‑class culture, our hotels provide a welcoming base to return to after days spent immersed in the capital’s creativity. Explore our London collection and start planning your stay.

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