2026 marks 100 years since Leighton House first opened to the public under thecareoftheRoyalBoroughofKensingtonandChelsea.
To celebrate this historic milestone, Leighton House has partnered with Bovingdons to launch a year-long bookable drinks reception and private tour experience, running throughout 2026. A rare opportunity to celebrate within oneofLondon’smostinspiringandstoriedvenues.
Whether you are planning a private celebration, corporate gathering, or special occasion, this exclusive experience invites you and your guests to experience the house’s unique Victorian setting while enjoying delicious canapés and refreshing drinks as you immerse yourselves in rich artistic heritage.
A centenary celebration of one of London’s most remarkable museums
The Royal History of Leighton House
Leighton House has a rich history of royal visits and patronage, adding an extra layerofprestigetoanyeventheldhere.
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert purchased Leighton’s first Royal Academy painting and Victoria came on a private visit in 1869. Leighton enjoyed a long friendship with the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII and Princess Alexandra whowerealsoregularvisitors.
The house has welcomed the Queen Mother, Princess Margaret and this tradition continues today. Prince Charles reopened the museum in 2010 following extensive restoration meeting many of the specialist makers and conservatorsinvolvedandvisitedagainasKingCharlesIIIin2023.
In the last few years Prince William and Princess Anne have attended private charitable events at the house as has the present Queen. Hosting your event heremeanssteppingintoaspaceshapedbyhistoryandsharedwithroyalty.
A centenary celebration of one of London’s most remarkable museums
Guest Journey
Welcome drink in Leighton’s Arab Hall (80pax standing capacity)
the 100 years exhibitions
11 October 2025 - 1 March 2026
Ghost Objects: Summoning Leighton’s Lost Collection
Leighton House: A Journey through 100 Years
The View from Here: Contemporary Art from the Middle East and North Africa
21 March - 4 October 2026
The Arab Hall: Past and Present
31 October 2026 - 21 March 2027
Magic and Mess: The Artist's Studio Revealed
Private tour begins
Guided tour through the house's remarkable history. While Leighton House has long stood as a celebrated museum, parts of the building have played home to a variety of cultural purposes over the decades, each adding a new chapter to its story.
A beloved children's library
A theatre & performance venue
The 1980s
A new era of restoration begins, reviving the house’s splendour
“With a focus on contemporary voices whilst celebrating the historic richness of the interiors and collections, the centenary programme brings together every aspect of Leighton House that makes it distinctive, significant and still relevant 100 years later.”
