Alistair Hardaker | Image: © David Levene / Art Fund 2026
Norwich Castle, The Box Plymouth, Fitzwilliam Museum, National Gallery and V&A East compete for £120,000 prize announced in June.
Art Fund has announced the five finalists for Museum of the Year 2026. The prize is described as the world’s largest museum prize.
The shortlisted museums are:
- Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery
- The Box in Plymouth
- The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge
- The National Gallery in London
- V&A East Storehouse in London
The winner will be announced on 25 June 2026 at Cutty Sark in London and will receive £120,000. Each of the four other finalists will receive £20,000, an increase of £5,000 per museum. Total prize money is £200,000.
The 2026 edition recognises projects and activity from autumn 2024 through to winter 2025. Judges evaluate museums through their practices and achievements.
The judging panel is chaired by Art Fund director Jenny Waldman and includes Tony Butler OBE, Executive Director of Derby Museums; Yinka Ilori MBE, artist; Alice Loxton, historian, author and broadcaster; and June Sarpong OBE, broadcaster, writer and campaigner.
Jenny Waldman said the shortlisted museums “showcase the extraordinary creativity and innovation that make museums such vibrant and essential places”.
“We hope people everywhere will be inspired to explore the finalists and their local museums, to see firsthand the treasures and experiences that are open to everyone.”
The prize is funded by National Art Pass members.
