The Box Plymouth has been named Art Fund’s Museum of the Year for 2026, winning a £120,000 prize.
The Box, which tells the story of Plymouth through art and other pieces, was given the prize for its “ambitious and welcoming approach”, and “impactful community work and a deep commitment to access for all” according to judges.
Jenny Waldman, director of Art Fund and chairwoman of the judges for Museum of the Year, said: “The Box is a revelation in so many ways – a true jewel in the crown of the South West.
“In just five years, it has transformed how Plymouth’s remarkable collections are shared and experienced, creating a welcoming space for visitors and reaching beyond its walls into public spaces and almost every school in the city.
“Its social and economic impact demonstrates what long-term investment in culture can achieve – and is recognised and championed by Plymouth City Council.”
Art Fund said the museum had become “a leading example of what a civic museum can achieve”, claiming it had boosted Plymouth’s local economy by £244 million.
Baroness Fiona Twycross, museums minister, said: “I was delighted to visit The Box last week and see first hand the incredible work being done to bring Plymouth’s remarkable story to life.
“Winning Art Fund Museum of the Year 2026 is a truly deserved recognition of this.
“All of the finalists are outstanding examples of what museums can achieve when they are bold, innovative and deeply connected to the people they serve.
“The Box has become central to Plymouth’s cultural life, inspiring the next generation by connecting with schools and communities across the region.
“This prize celebrates the very best of our nation’s museums and I encourage everyone to visit one and experience that for themselves.”
The Box opened in September 2020 after £48 million worth of investment, and has achieved 1.3 million visits in its first five years according to Art Fund.
It beat competition from fellow finalists The Fitzwilliam Museum (Cambridge), The National Gallery (London), Norwich Castle Museum And Art Gallery (Norwich) and V&A East Storehouse (London), with each runner-up taking home £20,000.
The annual prize is funded by Art Fund members who buy a National Art Pass, alongside funders and individuals who donate to Art Fund, with judges evaluating museums based on innovation and their achievements.
Last year the prize went to Beamish, The Living Museum Of The North.
