Three Exhibitions to Visit in London in 2025

Visitors and locals alike searching for art and cultural experiences in the coming year should look no further than this list for three captivating experiences that may excite and interest in equal measure. Providing a mix of historical significance and contemporary innovation, they promise to light up London's cultural scene in the coming months.

Tutankhamun Experience

Ancient Egypt has long held an allure for the general public and permeated various facets of entertainment with songs like Walk Like an Egyptian, and movies The Scorpion King and The Mummy showcasing Egypt to audiences in the 90s and 2000s. We can even find certain parallels in gaming. The Ancient Egyptian game Mehen shares certain similarities with roulette, such as a circular board and the element of chance. Although created 200 years ago, roulette is now a mainstay of the digital world with multiple versions of the game offered online. However, Mehen on the other hand hasn't survived the test of time. Much of what we know about the game comes from archaeological discovery, much like the rest of the information we have discovered about that time period in general.

Running until June for just 14 weeks at the Excel London venue, the 90-minute experience immerses visitors in Ancient Egypt. Highlights such as an eight-meter-high video mapping room and a hologram showing the mummification of Pharaoh Tutankhamun are sure to amaze audiences. Visitors can also browse ancient artefacts, providing a glimpse into life thousands of years ago.

Siena: The Rise of Painting, 1300–1350

This exhibition, focusing on Siena during the early period of the Renaissance, is a must for any art lover. The period of fifty years at the beginning of the 14th century marked an important evolution in European painting. This centred on Sienese artists who contributed to the new focus on elegance and spirituality. Visitors can expect to see work from Duccio di Buoninsegna and Simone Martini and will also have the chance to see themes and styles as they developed through time, giving a rare opportunity to see the pivotal role Siena played at the heart of Renaissance art.

Leigh Bowery! at Tate Modern

Running until August 2025, Tate Modern will unveil "Leigh Bowery!", an exhibition dedicated to the artist and fashion designer. The exhibition will feature a large collection of his photographs and video performances and offer an immersive experience into his avant-garde aesthetic. Bowery made an indelible mark on the art and fashion worlds of the 80s and 90s, and those who remember these periods will be especially fascinated by the exhibition. Celebrating his legacy and role in the conversation about self-expression, highlights include a look at his collaboration with Fergus Greer and his impact on the London club scene.

London has something for everyone as one of the world's largest cities. These exhibitions underscore the city's commitment to diverse aspects of art and culture, not just the mainstream. From ancient civilisation through the ages to the Renaissance and contemporary art, these exhibitions showcase the city's status as a cultural hub. Art and history enthusiasts alike will find visits to any of these exhibitions something to look forward to and enjoy in the following months.