Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition: What to Expect
Wildlife Photographer of the Year is one of London’s most popular annual exhibitions, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Natural History Museum each year. Showcasing the very best nature photography from around the globe, it has become a must-visit for anyone with even a passing interest in the natural world.
In This Article
- What Is the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition?
- What Makes It Worth Visiting
- Practical Information for Visitors
- Tips for Getting the Most From Your Visit
- Is It Suitable for Children?
- The Exhibition on Tour
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How much are tickets for Wildlife Photographer of the Year?
- How long does the exhibition take to see?
- Can I take photographs inside the exhibition?
- Do I need to book tickets in advance?
We visited the exhibition and share our honest take on what to expect, whether it is worth the ticket price, and tips for making the most of your visit.
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What Is the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition?
Run by the Natural History Museum in London, this competition and exhibition has been going since 1965. Each year, a panel of judges selects around 100 winning images from tens of thousands of entries submitted by photographers in over 90 countries.
The exhibition displays these winning images in large-format, backlit lightboxes that bring out extraordinary detail and colour. Categories range from underwater photography to urban wildlife, animal portraits, and photojournalism.
What Makes It Worth Visiting
The quality of images is genuinely stunning. Even if you have seen wildlife documentaries and photography books, seeing these images printed large and illuminated from behind creates an impact that screens simply cannot replicate.
The exhibition also does an excellent job of mixing beauty with substance. Many images come with stories about conservation challenges, endangered species, and the lengths photographers go to in order to capture a single frame. It is educational without being preachy.
Practical Information for Visitors
The exhibition runs annually from October through to the following summer at the Natural History Museum in South Kensington. Tickets need to be booked in advance, particularly for weekends and school holidays when it sells out regularly.
Adult tickets are typically priced around fifteen to sixteen pounds, with concessions available. Members of the Natural History Museum get free entry. Allow at least 90 minutes to see everything properly without rushing.
Tips for Getting the Most From Your Visit
Visit on a weekday morning if possible. The exhibition gets busy from midday onwards and particularly crowded at weekends. Early slots give you space to appreciate each image without jostling for position.
The audio guide is worth considering if you want background on how specific shots were taken. Photographers often spent days or weeks in extreme conditions to capture a single moment, and hearing those stories adds real depth to the experience.
Is It Suitable for Children?
Absolutely. Children tend to respond strongly to the large, vivid images of animals. The museum runs family-friendly activities alongside the exhibition, and younger visitors often pick favourite images and want to learn more about the creatures shown.
Some images in the photojournalism category may show distressing scenes related to poaching or habitat destruction. These are clearly signposted so parents can make informed choices about which sections to visit.
The Exhibition on Tour
If you cannot make it to London, the exhibition tours to venues across the UK and internationally throughout the year. Previous tour stops have included museums and galleries in cities like Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Bristol, as well as locations in Europe, Australia, and North America.
Check the Natural History Museum website for current tour dates and locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are tickets for Wildlife Photographer of the Year?
Adult tickets are usually around fifteen to sixteen pounds. Concessions and family tickets are available. Natural History Museum members enter free.
How long does the exhibition take to see?
Allow at least 90 minutes to see everything at a comfortable pace. Photography enthusiasts often spend two hours or more.
Can I take photographs inside the exhibition?
Personal photography is generally permitted but flash and tripods are not allowed. Check current rules on the museum website before visiting as policies can change.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended. Weekend and holiday slots sell out quickly, so book as early as possible to secure your preferred time.
For more London exhibition picks, our round-up of the best museum exhibitions in London is a good companion piece, and if you are making a day of it we also cover hidden London gems locals love. You can also check the Natural History Museum’s official WPY page for current dates and tickets.
