Art Fund Museum of the Year 2026: A Look at the Finalists

The Art Fund Museum of the Year 2026 has shortlisted five prominent cultural institutions, including the V&A East Storehouse, the National Gallery, Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, The Box in Plymouth, and The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge. The award, which recognizes innovation and excellence in the museum sector, offers a £120,000 prize to the winner, with each finalist receiving £20,000. The winner will be announced on June 25 at a ceremony held at the Cutty Sark in London.

Norwich Castle Museum shortlisted for UK museum of the yearThe Guardian

The V&A East Storehouse, which opened in May 2025 at a cost of £65 million, is seen as a frontrunner for the award. Located in the Olympic Park in Stratford, East London, the Storehouse aims to redefine the concept of a storeroom by allowing visitors to engage directly with the collections. Art Fund director Jenny Waldman noted that the design breaks traditional boundaries, enabling visitors to "see and breathe the same air" as the objects.

The Guardian

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery has undergone a significant refurbishment, making it the most accessible castle in the UK. The renovations include immersive displays that transport visitors back to the 12th century. Waldman highlighted the castle's efforts to open up historical experiences for a new generation, stating, “If you’re a wheelchair user and you want to go up to the ramparts of Norwich Castle, you can.”

The GuardianNorwich Castle Museum shortlisted for UK museum of the year

The Box in Plymouth, described as the largest cultural center in south-west England, has also been recognized for its community engagement. Despite initial criticism regarding its architectural design, it has reportedly contributed £244 million to the local economy and houses over 2 million items. The Fitzwilliam Museum, serving as the principal museum for the University of Cambridge since 1816, has been praised for its innovative exhibitions, including collaborations with contemporary artists.

Norwich Castle Museum shortlisted for UK museum of the year

The National Gallery, which celebrated its bicentenary in 2025, is noted for its extensive rehang and the reopening of the Sainbury Wing. Waldman remarked that the gallery went the “extra mile in every direction” during this milestone year, showcasing its commitment to enhancing visitor experience.

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While the shortlisted museums have received accolades for their innovations, some critics have pointed out that not all renovations have been universally praised. For instance, The Box in Plymouth was described as a “clumsy” addition to the city’s Edwardian museum by architecture critic Olly Wainwright.

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The anticipation builds as the announcement for the Art Fund Museum of the Year 2026 approaches. Each finalist represents a unique approach to engaging with the public and enhancing accessibility, reflecting the evolving role of museums in society.

Norwich Castle Museum shortlisted for UK museum of the year

• “The five shortlisted museums this year showcase the extraordinary creativity and innovation that make museums such vibrant and essential places.” — Jenny Waldman, Director of Art Fund

Norwich Castle Museum shortlisted for UK museum of the year

• “It’s opening up the past for a new generation.” — Jenny Waldman on Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery.

The Guardian

• “Waldman said the V&A Storehouse, which opened in spring 2025 at a cost of £65m, had broken the boundaries of what a store could be.” — Jenny Waldman, Director of Art Fund.

The Guardian