Rocket’s Guide to the Best Exhibitions This Autumn & Winter
From major museum exhibitions to intimate gallery shows, London's autumn and winter cultural programme provides the perfect backdrop for exceptional events. We've highlighted some of the season's must-see exhibitions, together with ideas to inspire everything from private views and client entertaining to elegant evening receptions.
If you'd like to explore how Rocket can bring your event to life, contact us at parties@rocketfood.com for a bespoke brochure, tailored menu ideas and creative inspiration.
the british museum
The Bayeux Tapestry
10 September 2026 – 11 July 2027
One of the most important loans in the British Museum's history, The Bayeux Tapestry arrives in London for the first time this autumn. Stretching almost 70 metres, this extraordinary masterpiece tells the story of the Norman Conquest with remarkable detail, making it one of the world's greatest surviving works of medieval art.
A candlelit banquet beneath the Great Court would be a fitting way to continue the story, with long feasting tables, hearty British dishes, and roaming musicians creating an unforgettable evening.
V&A South Kensington
Constantinople to Istanbul: One City, Two Empires
7 November 2026 – 9 May 2027
Spanning more than a thousand years, Constantinople to Istanbul: One City, Two Empires explores the remarkable evolution of one of history's most influential cities. Rich in craftsmanship and colour, the exhibition reveals how East and West met to shape generations of art and design.
The flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean would make the perfect accompaniment, with vibrant mezze, live charcoal grilling, signature cocktails, and jewel toned styling inspired by the city's historic bazaars.
the national gallery
Renoir & Love
3 October 2026 – 31 January 2027
Van Eyck: The Portraits
21 November 2026 – 11 April 2027
Two landmark exhibitions arrive at the National Gallery this season. Renoir & Love celebrates romance through some of Impressionism's best loved paintings, while Van Eyck: The Portraits offers a rare chance to experience the astonishing detail and realism that transformed European portraiture.
A champagne reception with refined canapés, live strings, and elegant styling would set the scene perfectly before guests step into the galleries.
national portrait gallery
Tim Walker's Fairyland: Love and Legends
8 October 2026 – 7 February 2027
Winston Taylor Photo Portrait Prize
5 November 2026 – 17 January 2027
Whether you're drawn to the dreamlike imagination of Tim Walker's Fairyland: Love and Legends or the striking storytelling of the Winston Taylor Photo Portrait Prize, the National Portrait Gallery's autumn programme celebrates photography at its most captivating.
A playful drinks reception with theatrical desserts, imaginative cocktails, and roaming canapés would capture the sense of wonder that runs throughout both exhibitions.
royal academy of arts
Painting the French Riviera
2 October 2026 – 31 January 2027
Sun drenched landscapes, sparkling coastlines, and the artists who fell in love with them take centre stage in Painting the French Riviera. It's a welcome escape to warmer shores just as winter begins to settle over London.
Think Provençal sharing plates, chilled rosé, fresh oysters, and live jazz, bringing a little Côte d'Azur glamour to the heart of Mayfair.
DESIGN MUSEUM
Es Devlin
2 October 2026 – 4 April 2027
The first UK exhibition dedicated to Es Devlin explores the work of one of today's most visionary creative minds. Best known for designing unforgettable experiences for everyone from Beyoncé to the London Olympics, Devlin's work blurs the boundaries between art, performance, architecture, and technology.
An immersive evening of interactive food stations, sculptural desserts, bold lighting, and inventive cocktails would feel right at home alongside Devlin's spectacular creations.
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Wildlife Photographer of the Year 62
From October 2026
Every year, Wildlife Photographer of the Year captures the beauty and drama of the natural world through extraordinary photography. The latest edition brings together 100 remarkable images that celebrate wildlife while shining a light on the importance of conservation.
A menu inspired by the seasons, featuring responsibly sourced ingredients, grazing stations, and botanical cocktails, would perfectly complement the exhibition's celebration of nature.
THE COURTAULD
Salman Toor: Someone Like You
2 October 2026 – 10 January 2027
Marking the artist's first solo exhibition in Europe, Salman Toor: Someone Like You brings together paintings that are intimate, witty, and deeply human. Through everyday moments, Toor explores identity and contemporary queer life with warmth and humour.
An intimate evening of colourful sharing plates, creative cocktails, and live music would reflect the exhibition's relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
tate modern
Frida: The Making of an Icon
25 June 2026 – 3 January 2027
More than a painter, Frida Kahlo became one of the most recognisable cultural figures of the twentieth century. Frida: The Making of an Icon explores the woman behind the legend, examining how her art and enduring influence continue to resonate around the world.
Celebrate afterwards with a vibrant Mexican inspired reception, where margaritas, tacos, colourful canapés, live music, and bold floral styling bring Frida's unmistakable spirit to life.
wallace collection
Cosimo I de’ Medici: Art and Dynasty
18 November 2026 – 21 March 2027
More than a ruling family, the Medici became symbols of wealth, power, and cultural influence during the Renaissance. Cosimo I de’ Medici: Art and Dynasty explores the legacy of one of Florence’s most formidable leaders, revealing how art, design, and spectacle were masterfully used to project authority and secure dynastic ambition.
Celebrate afterwards with an opulent Renaissance-inspired reception, where Tuscan wines, Italian canapés, live classical music, and lavish floral styling evoke the grandeur of the Medici court, bringing the splendour of 16th-century Florence to life.
If you’re planning an event around one of these exhibitions, contact us at parties@rocketfood.com and we’ll share a bespoke brochure with tailored menus and thoughtful creative concepts.