UK Museum of the Year 2025: Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Innovation

In an impressive showcase of cultural heritage and community engagement, five museums have been nominated for the prestigious Art Fund Museum of the Year award, set to be announced on June 26, 2025. These finalists not only highlight significant historical artifacts but also underscore the vital role museums play in contemporary society.

One standout nominee is the Beamish Museum in County Durham, renowned for its immersive representation of life during the industrial era. As noted by Terry Deary, author of "Horrible Histories," Beamish is home to a teapot once belonging to Victorian-era mass murderer Mary Ann Cotton, who was convicted of poisoning her victims. Deary expressed his fascination with the teapot, stating, "I was blown away to hold it!" This museum, which opened 55 years ago, offers visitors a chance to traverse through time, featuring a 1940s farm and a 1950s town populated by staff in period costumes, thus providing an authentic glimpse into British industrial heritage.

The significance of Beamish extends beyond nostalgia; it serves as a critical educational tool about the grim realities of the industrial past. According to Deary, the experience is not overly romanticized, illustrating the harsh conditions of coal mining, which discourages romantic notions of the era. He remarked, "I think Beamish dispels some of the glamour of the industrial era too."

Another contender is the newly opened Perth Museum in Scotland, which boasts the Stone of Destiny, a symbol of Scottish nationhood. First recorded as being used in 1249, the stone has witnessed a tumultuous history, including being taken to Westminster Abbey as war loot by King Edward I. As Scottish First Minister John Swinney articulated, the stone’s return to Perth symbolizes Scotland’s historical narrative. He stated, "Scotland’s history is part of Scotland’s future," reflecting the museum's mission to connect past and present.

The Perth Museum also features the Strathmore meteorite, which exploded over the region in 1917, and the 1,000 BCE Carpow logboat discovered in the River Tay marshes. The museum has reportedly led to a remarkable 68% increase in foot traffic in Perth's city center since its opening, highlighting its impact on local tourism and community engagement.

In Cardiff, Chapter has carved out a unique niche by prioritizing creative expression over traditional exhibitions. As broadcaster Huw Stephens noted, Chapter has become a central hub for the city’s creative scene since its inception in 1971, hosting events that cater to diverse communities, including the Deaf community. The museum’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its initiatives, such as providing free meals to children during school holidays and expanding its “pay what you can” pricing scheme amid the cost of living crisis.

Derry Girls star Tara Lynne O’Neill praised the Golden Thread gallery in Belfast for its community-focused approach, providing free workshops that encourage local artistic talent. O’Neill recalled, "It convinced me that I was very much in the right genre of art form." The gallery’s commitment to documenting the Troubles through art, exemplified in Paul Seawright’s photographic series, serves as a poignant reminder of the past while fostering community engagement.

Lastly, Compton Verney in Warwickshire, described by Prue Leith as a blend of historical significance and contemporary art, houses exceptional collections alongside innovative installations. Its diverse programming, including family activities and outdoor sculptures, ensures that it remains a vibrant cultural space for all.

The Art Fund Museum of the Year award, which offers a £120,000 prize to the winner and £15,000 to each of the finalists, is recognized as the largest museum prize globally. The selection of these museums reflects a broader recognition of their roles as custodians of history, cultural engagement, and community development. As the announcement date approaches, the spotlight remains on how these institutions continue to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing cultural landscape.