A small museum in the UK has been recognized as the top museum in Europe. The Young V&A, a branch of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, has been honored with the 2026 Council of Europe Museum Prize. This prestigious award, given for nearly five decades, acknowledges the museum’s significant contribution to the appreciation of European cultural heritage, human rights, and democracy.
Featuring engaging interactive displays like the Spinning Sand Wheel, sensory areas, dress-up zones, and popular toys such as Pikachu and the Amstrad CPC 464 Computer, the Young V&A’s three main galleries cater to visitors of all ages, including babies with eye-level colors, textures, and shapes.
After undergoing a three-year renovation, the Young V&A reopened in 2023 and was chosen by the Council of Europe’s Culture Committee for its blend of educational content and playful experiences that touch on real-world issues like sustainability and empathy.
Launching in February, a new exhibition at the museum will explore the enchanting world of Aardman, featuring beloved characters like Wallace & Gromit, Morph, Chicken Run, and Shaun The Sheep. With more than 150 exhibits, including rare models, sets, and storyboards from Aardman’s archives, this exhibition marks the studio’s 50th anniversary.
Titled “Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends,” the exhibition at the Young V&A in East London offers an inside look at stop-motion animation, showcasing how Aardman’s iconic characters are brought to life. Visitors can participate in interactive activities such as character design and creating live-action videos.
The exhibition showcases early character sketches, concept art, puppets, props, scripts, and set models from Aardman, alongside optical illusion toys and early stop-motion animations from the V&A’s collection. Noteworthy items include development sketches for Morph, initial character concepts for Wallace, and exclusive artifacts like the duo’s motorbike and sidecar from the award-winning film “Vengeance Most Fowl.”
Wallace & Gromit, created by Nick Park from Aardman Animations in Bristol, has received multiple Oscars and Bafta awards. Alex Newson, chief curator at the Young V&A, highlighted Aardman’s humble beginnings and handcrafted approach that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
The exhibition will run from February 12 to November 15 next year.