THE V&A’S BRITISH GALLERIES — 25 YEARS ON

Image: Britain 1500–1900 galleries at the V&A South Kensington

The V&A’s groundbreaking Britain 1500–1900 galleries turn 25 years old in 2026. A half-day conference is devoted to reassessing their aspirations and impact, and reimagining their future. The British Galleries (2001) were the V&A’s largest and most ambitious gallery project since WWII, immediately gaining national acclaim and going on to win European Museum of the Year (2003).

Covering roughly 10% of the South Kensington gallery space and displaying nearly 3000 objects, they tell a story of design and art in Britain from the Tudors to the end of the Victorian era. Internationally, they have been widely influential for their approach to historical narratives, audiences and gallery interpretation.    

This half-day event will present a series of talks and a panel discussion reflecting on the galleries, and how a future British Galleries might respond to the many changes in contemporary culture and creative practice since 2001. A wide range of speakers will address topics including gallery narrative and design, technology and community engagement.  

The conference is on Friday, 25 September 2026 from 14.00–18.00, with the British Galleries remaining open until 9pm. It is hybrid, with in-person tickets costing £15, taking place at the Hochhauser Auditorium, V&A South Kensington. Concessions and online tickets are £10.

In-person tickets: The V&A’s British Galleries – 25 Years On (In-person) - Conferences and study days at V&A South Kensington · V&A

Online tickets: The V&A’s British Galleries – 25 Years On (Online) - Conferences and study days at Online · V&A