The British Museum hosts a dynamic programme of exhibitions, featuring rotating displays, special showcases, and major international loans that bring global art, history, and culture together. While the permanent galleries are free to explore, some special exhibitions require separate tickets. On this page, you’ll find an overview of what’s currently on and what to expect when planning a visit.
A major presentation of the Bayeux Tapestry, returning to the UK after nearly 1,000 years. The work tells the story of the Norman Conquest through embroidered scenes of political power, warfare, and succession.
An exhibition exploring Hawaiʻi’s history and cultural identity through feather cloaks, ceremonial objects, and navigational traditions that shaped oceanic knowledge and global connections.
A major exhibition presenting samurai culture through armour, helmets, and weapons that reflect identity, status, and craftsmanship in feudal Japan.
A display exploring Sufi traditions through Islamic art, ceramics, and textiles that express spirituality, devotion, and cultural heritage.
A display exploring artistic responses to the French Revolution through the works of Pierre Alexandre Wille.
A display examining visual poetry and symbolic responses to the French Revolution through Ian Hamilton Finlay’s work.
A display featuring the Asante Ewer, highlighting West African craftsmanship, ceremonial traditions, and historical identity.
A display of drawings from Early Netherlandish artists focusing on precision, form, and Renaissance artistic development.
A commemorative display reflecting on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II through selected objects and cultural references.
An artistic display exploring natural forms, landscape symbolism, and textile-inspired visual storytelling.
A seasonal event exploring myths and traditions of spring through storytelling and cultural activities.
An immersive cultural event introducing Japanese tea ceremony traditions and ritual practice.
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended for popular exhibitions, as time slots can sell out quickly even though general entry is free.
Permanent galleries and some displays are free, but most major temporary exhibitions require a separate paid ticket.
Exhibitions typically run for several weeks to a few months, depending on the scale and content of the display.
Entry is usually timed, meaning you must arrive within your allocated slot, though you can generally stay as long as you like inside.
Yes, many exhibitions are family-friendly, though some displays may contain complex historical or cultural themes better suited to older children.
Exhibitions are held in designated gallery spaces such as the Sainsbury Exhibitions Gallery and other dedicated museum exhibition rooms.
Photography rules vary by exhibition. Some allow non-flash photography, while others may restrict it depending on the artefacts displayed.
The museum regularly rotates exhibitions throughout the year, with new displays opening as others close to showcase different collections.
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