The five museums which are in with a chance of winning the title of Art Fund Museum Of The Year 2026 and its £120,000 prize have been revealed.
Norwich Castle Museum And Art Gallery, Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, The Box in Plymouth, and The National Gallery and V&A Storehouse in London, are to battle it out for what is thought to be the world’s largest museum prize.
Jenny Waldman, director of Art Fund, said: “The five shortlisted museums this year showcase the extraordinary creativity and innovation that make museums such vibrant and essential places.
“From opening up world-leading collections to connecting with communities of all ages through ambitious exhibitions and programmes, each one offers something special.
“We are thrilled to celebrate their achievements as finalists for Art Fund Museum Of The Year, thanks to our National Art Pass members who make the prize possible.
“We hope people everywhere will be inspired to explore the finalists and their local museums, to see first hand the treasures and experiences that are open to everyone.”
Norwich Castle Museum And Art Gallery has recently undergone major redevelopment, making it the most accessible castle in the UK with rooms aiming to show an authentic display of life in the 12th century.
The Box celebrated its fifth birthday in September last year, and is a museum, gallery and archive that aims to tell the history of Plymouth.
The Fitzwilliam Museum has been the University Of Cambridge’s principal museum since 1816, and is currently evolving its collection.
The National Gallery, founded by Parliament in 1824, houses the nation’s collection of paintings from the late 13th to the early 20th century, and celebrated its bicentenary in 2025.
The V&A East Storehouse opened in May last year and allows visitors to walk among its collection and learn about how a museum works, it is also home to the David Bowie Centre, housing the singer’s archive.
The winning museum will be announced on June 25 at a ceremony at Cutty Sark in London, while £20,000 will also be given to each of the four other finalists.
The prize is funded by Art Fund members who buy a National Art Pass, as well as the funders and individuals who support the group’s work.
National Art Pass holders are given discounts and benefits at the shortlisted museums and more across the UK.
