The 2026 New Year Honours List has brought recognition to numerous professionals in the museum, heritage, and cultural sectors. Among those honored is Tristram Hunt, director of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London since 2017. He has been awarded a knighthood for his significant contributions to museums, particularly in transforming the V&A into a multi-site group.
Tristram Hunt’s Impact on the Victoria and Albert Museum
Under Hunt’s leadership, the V&A has undergone substantial development, now encompassing:
- V&A Wedgwood Collection in Stoke-on-Trent
- V&A Dundee in Scotland
- Young V&A, which has been redesigned
- Two new V&A East locations in East London
The V&A praised Hunt’s “bold and thoughtful leadership,” highlighting his background as a historian and author. His efforts have been pivotal in launching major initiatives like V&A East, enhancing connections between collections, creativity, and communities.
Other Notable Honours in the Heritage Sector
The 2026 New Year Honours also recognized other key figures in heritage and culture. Hilary McGrady, the National Trust’s director-general since 2018, received a CBE for her exceptional contributions to heritage. Rene Olivieri, chair of the National Trust, commended her leadership during challenging times.
Joanne Quinton-Tulloch, director of the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, was honored with an OBE for her services to the arts. Additionally, Janet Blake, an expert in cultural heritage law, and Dee Dyas from the University of York, both received OBEs for their respective contributions.
Additional Recognitions
Other honorees included:
- Ekow Eshun, former director of the Institute of Contemporary Arts, received an OBE for services to the arts.
- Bernard Morgan, a volunteer at the Imperial War Museum since 2006, was awarded an MBE at 101 years old.
- Laura Drysdale, founder of the Restoration Trust, received an MBE for contributions to heritage and mental health.
- Various individuals received MBEs for local heritage efforts, including Frances Gunn and Jocelyn Finnigan.
David Gurney, retired film laboratory lead at the British Film Institute, also received an MBE. Several other volunteers and leaders in heritage and culture were acknowledged for their dedicated services.
This year’s honours highlight the vital role of professionals in the museum and heritage sectors, with Tristram Hunt’s knighthood serving as a notable recognition of exceptional leadership and commitment to cultural enrichment.
