Art Fund Museum of the Year 2023

Find out who has been shortlisted for the world's largest museum prize, which this year celebrates the remarkable creativity and imagination of the UK's museums

By Art Fund

The Burrell Collection gallery (2023) by Janie AireyArt Fund

The Burrell Collection

Part of the fabric of Glasgow's cultural life, this renowned museum was reopened by King Charles in March 2022 following a major refurbishment, and has since welcomed over 500,000 visitors through its doors.

The Burrell Collection front enterance (2023) by Janie AireyArt Fund

Glasgow, Scotland

The Burrell Collection is set in Glasgow's largest park, with wonderful views of its woodland setting. Its diverse collection contains something for everyone.

Leighton House interiror (2023) by Janie AireyArt Fund

Leighton House

This hidden gem in west London was reopened in October 2022 following a major redevelopment. Its pioneering programme of exhibitions explores themes of identity and cultural interaction and celebrates curiosity in the wider world.

Leighton House exteriror of the back (2023) by Janie AireyArt Fund

London, England

Frederic, Lord Leighton, created a truly unique space that was at once a home, a studio, and an architectural expression of his artistic creed, his 'private palace of art'.

The Mac in Belfast interior of gallery (2023) by Janie AireyArt Fund

The MAC, Belfast

Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, The MAC exists to make Northern Ireland a better place by enabling people to imagine, create, enjoy, and participate in outstanding art and culture.

The Mac in Belfast exterior (2023) by Janie AireyArt Fund

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Set in the heart of the city, it consistently brings major international artists to local audiences, and positions Northern Irish artists within an international context.

The Natural History Museum exterior (2023) by Jaine AireyArt Fund

Natural History Museum

Home to over 80 million objects, this truly global museum contains the world’s most important natural history collection, and uses its unrivalled expertise to tackle the biggest challenges facing the world today.

The Natural History Museum exterior (2023) by Jaine AireyArt Fund

London, England

Set in the heart of London's museum quarter, this world-leading institution regularly hosts industry experts and policy makers, and took part in both COP27 and COP15, working to ensure a better future for the planet.

Scapa Flow Museum interior gallery (2023) by Jaine AireyArt Fund

Scapa Flow Museum

Following eight years of fundraising and four years of project development, this special museum reopened to the public in 2022, and tells the story of Orkney's role in the two world wars of the 20th century.

Scapa Flow Museum exterior building (2023) by Jaine AireyArt Fund

Orkney, Scotland

Situated near Stromness, the site incorporates part of the historic base infrastructure, the Pumphouse, and a modern exhibition gallery.

Which one of these incredible museums will be crowned Art Fund Museum of the Year 2023? Find out on 12 July, when the winner of the £120,000 prize will be revealed. The prize is funded thanks to Art Fund’s members who buy a National Art Pass. Pass holders enjoy discounts and benefits at hundreds of museums and galleries across the UK.

Credits: Story

Video Production: Tailored Media
Photography: Janie Airey

Credits: All media

The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.

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