Whether your idea of a perfect day out involves a gallery trail or a bottomless brunch, the UK’s museum scene is worth paying attention to right now. From immersive experiences and iconic archives to moody paintings and medieval castles, they’re no longer reserved for days when you just want to feel cultural.
Art Fund, the national charity for museums and galleries, has announced the five finalists for Art Fund Museum of the Year 2026 (the world's largest museum prize, FYI) and they’re not what you’d expect. Each redefines the idea of what a museum can be in its own way, and you can visit all of them for less with the National Art Pass Summer Trial, on offer for just £20 until the end of June.
Here’s why each one deserves a spot in your summer plans.
V&A East Storehouse, London
London’s uber-modern V&A East Storehouse is a free-to-enter, inside-out experience offering a behind-the-scenes look at a fascinating collection of items, as well as the chance to watch conservators at work. With four floors to explore, expect everything from chopper bikes and 90s clothing to retro televisions. The David Bowie Centre alone is worth the trip, bringing together 200 items from his career, including many that have never been seen before (make an appointment for the Order an Object service to get an up-close-and-personal viewing of costumes, instruments or personal notes). Music fans will also enjoy exploring the Glastonbury Festival archive, where you can browse posters, photos and interviews with your favourite artists. National Art Pass holders get 10 per cent off at the e5 Storehouse café and retail pop-up.
The Box, Plymouth
One of the South West’s most exciting cultural destinations, The Box has welcomed more than a million visitors since opening in 2020 – and it holds more than a few surprises. Housing over two million objects, including a pickled baby shark and a full-size woolly mammoth replica named Mildred (naturally), it also features a live TV studio lab where you can test your presenting skills, plus an interactive exhibition from Turner Prize winner, George Shaw. Visit on a Sunday for the excellent brunch at The Box Kitchen & Bar, and with a National Art Pass, enjoy 10 per cent off your bill and 10 per cent off in the shop.
The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
Looking for an excuse to do a day trip to Cambridge? Consider this your sign. The Fitzwilliam has some of the most Instagram-worthy interiors of any gallery in the country, and paintings are displayed thematically rather than by artist, spanning topics like migration, the interior lives of women, and identity. Look out for museum lates inspired by artist Frank Bowling’s bold abstract works, with live music, dance and interactive workshops. National Art Pass holders get 50 per cent off charged exhibitions and 10 per cent off at the Courtyard Kitchen.
The National Gallery, London
A short stroll from Covent Garden, the National Gallery is the perfect place to spend a couple of hours away from your phone. Here you’ll find works by everyone from Van Gogh and da Vinci to Monet and Michelangelo, while asking yourself the important questions: what did beauty standards look like 500 years before Instagram? And how were people signalling wealth before logos existed? If you like your art dark and cinematic, the Zurbarán exhibition runs throughout the summer. National Art Pass holders get 50 per cent off exhibitions and 10 per cent off in the shop.
Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Norwich
Planning a trip to Norfolk this summer? Set aside a few hours to explore Norwich Castle, which – following a major redevelopment – is now a fully immersive experience. Walking through the big blue leather doors will take you straight back to the 12th century, with reconstructed rooms and actors on hand to help you slip into your regal medieval robes. National Art Pass holders get free entry, and the first 500 visitors can claim a complimentary tote bag a free tote bag, so get there early.
Ready to start planning? Get free and reduced entry to hundreds of museums for three months with a National Art Pass Summer Trial, just £20 for three months until the end of June. Get yours at artfund.org
