There’s a reason London’s exhibition scene keeps pulling people back: every season brings new shows, new discoveries, and often free entry to world-class galleries. Whether you’re drawn to Renoir’s brushstrokes at the National Gallery or the surreal world of Schiaparelli at the V&A, the city offers more than 50 exhibitions at any given time.

4 related posts

Exhibitions listed on major guides: 50+ ·
Free exhibitions available: 15+ ·
Price range (most paid): £10–£25 ·
Top-rated exhibition (TripAdvisor): Titanic: The Exhibition

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • The exact end date for the “Always Audrey” exhibition at Iconic Images Gallery beyond summer 2025 is not yet confirmed.
  • Pricing for 2026 exhibitions at the new London Museum has not been announced.
3Timeline signal
4What’s next

Five key facts: the exhibition landscape in London by the numbers.

Fact Value
Number of free museums 15+
Average time per exhibition 1–2 hours
Most popular exhibition by search Titanic: The Exhibition
Cheapest paid exhibition £5
Most expensive exhibition £35

What are the best exhibitions in London right now?

London’s current roster spans art, fashion, history, and immersive experiences. Here are five standout shows worth your time, backed by editorial picks and official listings.

  • Renoir and Love – National Gallery (Spring–June 2025, £15–20). An intimate look at Renoir’s depictions of love and intimacy (The National Gallery (official museum site)).
  • Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art – V&A (opens 28 March 2026, £12–18). Elsa Schiaparelli’s surrealist designs meet contemporary fashion (V&A (London’s design museum)).
  • Titanic: The Exhibition – Immersive venue (through 2025, £20–30). Artifacts and recreations from the infamous ship (TripAdvisor (visitor review platform)).
  • Edwin Austin Abbey: By the Dawn’s Early Light – National Gallery (free). A rare display of the American painter’s historical works (National Gallery official site).
  • Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends – V&A (current, £12–18). The beloved stop-motion studio’s creative process (V&A official site).
The upshot

With 50+ exhibitions on at any time, visitors should pick a theme—art, fashion, family—and filter by budget. Free options are abundant but often require advance booking.

How to choose based on interest

  • Art lovers: head to the National Gallery for Renoir and free contemporary shows like ming wong: Dance of the sun on the water (National Gallery official site).
  • Fashion fans: the V&A’s Schiaparelli and Aardman exhibitions are must-sees.
  • Families: Jurassic World Exhibition (until Sept 2025, £20–30) and the Science Museum’s free galleries.
  • Budget seekers: the British Museum and National Gallery permanent collections are always free (Visit London (official tourism site)).

The pattern: each venue tends to cluster shows by theme, making it easy to double up. A day at the V&A can cover both fashion and animation, while the National Gallery pairs classics with contemporary free displays.

Quick summary: The best exhibitions include Renoir at the National Gallery, Schiaparelli at the V&A, the Titanic Exhibition, and free shows at the National Gallery. Choose by interest: art, fashion, family, or budget.

What’s on at the Royal Academy today in London exhibitions?

As of our latest research, the Royal Academy’s current exhibition listings were not available through the official sources we consulted. However, the nearby National Gallery offers several shows that appeal to similar audiences.

Current exhibitions at the National Gallery (alternative venue)

  • Renoir and Love – Paid, runs through June 2025.
  • Edwin Austin Abbey: By the Dawn’s Early Light – Free, no ticket needed.
  • ming wong: Dance of the sun on the water | Saltatio solis in aqua – Free contemporary installation (National Gallery official site).

Permanent collection highlights

  • The National Gallery’s permanent collection is free and includes works by Van Gogh, Turner, and Rembrandt. Donations welcome.
The catch

While the Royal Academy’s public programme wasn’t confirmed at time of writing, its summer exhibition previews often go on sale in spring. Check their official site for updates.

The implication: visitors interested in the Royal Academy should monitor its official site for announcements, as dates and ticket details emerge.

What exhibitions are on at the National Gallery London?

The National Gallery currently runs a mix of free and ticketed exhibitions, drawing on its world-class collection.

  • Renoir and Love – £15–20, until June 2025. Focuses on Renoir’s romantic and intimate works (The National Gallery (official museum site)).
  • Van Eyck Portraits – £15–20, dates TBC (National Gallery official site).
  • Edwin Austin Abbey: By the Dawn’s Early Light – Free.
  • ming wong: Dance of the sun on the water – Free.

Upcoming shows

  • Wright of Derby: From the Shadows – Paid, dates to be announced. Note that this is a paid exhibition, not free (National Gallery official site).

What this means: the Gallery balances blockbuster ticketed shows with emerging artists free of charge. Check the free schedules to save money while still seeing world-class art.

What unique exhibits can I see for free in London?

Free exhibitions are a highlight of London’s cultural scene, spanning museums, galleries, and pop-ups. Here are the best options confirmed by our sources.

  • British Museum – Permanent collection (free, ongoing). Egyptian mummies, Rosetta Stone, and more (Visit London (official tourism site)).
  • National Gallery – Free exhibitions as listed above (National Gallery official site).
  • White Cube – Free entry to contemporary art galleries in Bermondsey and Mason’s Yard. No booking required (GalleriesNow (contemporary art listings)).
  • V&A – Free permanent galleries (fashion, sculpture, ceramics). Ticketed for special exhibitions.
  • Science Museum – Free entry with a donation suggestion (Visit London official site).
  • RHS Botanica | Art & Photography Show at Saatchi Gallery – Free entry in 2026 (The Glossary Magazine (culture and lifestyle publication)).

White Cube free entry

The trade-off

Free exhibitions often have timed entry slots that fill quickly. Book online in advance at museums like the British Museum to avoid disappointment.

Why this matters: free entry doesn’t mean lower quality. Some of London’s most celebrated works—from the Parthenon marbles to Van Gogh’s Sunflowers—are accessible at no cost.

Quick summary: Free exhibitions abound at the British Museum, National Gallery, White Cube, V&A, Science Museum, and Saatchi Gallery. Book timed slots early for popular venues.

What’s on fashion exhibitions in London?

London’s fashion exhibition scene is thriving, with two major shows currently confirmed.

  • Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art – V&A (opens 28 March 2026). Explores the surrealist designer’s collaborations with artists like Dalí. Tickets £12–18 (V&A (London’s design museum)).
  • Always Audrey – Iconic Images Gallery (summer 2025, £15). A photography exhibition celebrating Audrey Hepburn’s life and style. Exact end date beyond summer 2025 unclear (Wallpaper* (design and culture magazine)).

Audrey Hepburn exhibition details

  • The “Always Audrey” exhibition at Iconic Images Gallery features rare photographs from Hepburn’s personal archive. Located near Piccadilly, it’s a dedicated fashion-history experience.

The pattern: London’s fashion shows tend to cluster at the V&A and smaller specialist galleries. If you’re a fashion enthusiast, the V&A is your best first stop.

What visitors say about London’s exhibition scene

“The best free exhibitions are at the National Gallery and the British Museum—you can spend hours without spending a penny.”

— Visit London (official tourism site)

“We recommend checking the V&A’s What’s On page regularly; their fashion and design exhibitions sell out fast.”

— V&A (London’s design museum)

For anyone planning a London visit, the choice is clear: pick a theme, check free entry options, and book ahead to avoid disappointment. The city’s cultural calendar is packed, but with a little planning, you can see world-class exhibitions without breaking the bank. For budget-conscious travellers, the free permanent collections at the National Gallery and British Museum are unbeatable; for fashion enthusiasts, the V&A’s Schiaparelli show is a must.

For a comprehensive overview of the best shows and free events, check out this current London exhibitions guide for detailed dates and booking tips.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I get discounted tickets to London exhibitions?

Many venues offer discounts for students, seniors, and members. Consider a National Art Pass from Art Fund (membership organisation) for 50% off at major museums. Also check TimeOut London for promo codes.

What is the best day to visit London exhibitions?

Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are generally quieter. Some museums extend hours on Fridays. Check individual venue calendars.

Are London exhibitions suitable for children?

Yes. Many have family-friendly trails and interactive elements. The Science Museum, Natural History Museum, and Jurassic World Exhibition are particularly child-oriented.

Do I need to book exhibition tickets in advance?

For popular paid exhibitions (Renoir, Schiaparelli), advance booking is essential. Free exhibitions generally require timed entry slots but can be booked on the day.

Can I take photos inside London exhibitions?

Policies vary. Most allow non-flash photography in permanent collections, but special exhibitions often restrict photography. Check at the entrance.

Is there a London exhibition pass that covers multiple venues?

No single pass covers all. The London Pass includes entry to some attractions but not most temporary exhibitions. The National Art Pass offers discounts at 800+ museums.

What is the cheapest exhibition in London?

Free exhibitions at the British Museum, National Gallery, and White Cube cost nothing. Among paid shows, the cheapest start around £5 (check individual listings).