Museums Awards 2026

This year marked our ninth annual awards, and the enthusiasm from entrants, judges and attendees made it one of the strongest yet. We received a record number of submissions across multiple categories, reflecting the imagination, resilience and care that define Hertfordshire’s museum community. Our hosts at the British Schools Museum provided a wonderful setting, and we were delighted to welcome Councillor Chris Lucas, trustees of the Hertfordshire Heritage Fund, and our panel of external judges who generously gave their time and expertise.

The afternoon began with a brilliantly quirky and insightful talk from Bee Smythe, setting the tone perfectly before we moved into the four externally judged award categories: Creative Health, Engagement, Environmental Sustainability and Innovation. Each category highlighted the range of creative practice happening across the county, from community partnerships and mindful gallery design to bold organisational changes and inventive uses of space and technology. The winners were:

Creative Health Award: North Herts Museum

Engagement Award: Garden City Collection AND St Albans Museum + Gallery

Innovation Award: Lowewood Museum

Environmental Sustainability Award:   Royston Museum

One of the most valued parts of the event each year is the Heritage Hero Awards, celebrating individuals whose dedication has made an exceptional difference to their organisations. This year’s nominees represented an inspiring mix of long-standing volunteers, project leaders, curators, archivists and community champions. Their stories, from revitalising collections and supporting major projects, to transforming visitor experiences and bringing local history to life, truly showcased the power of personal commitment in keeping museums thriving. Hearing the citations read aloud was a moving reminder of how much passion and effort sit behind the scenes in every museum.

We were also thrilled to announce the winner of Object of the Year 2026, chosen from 23 fascinating entries and more than 4,500 public votes. Awell-loved teddy belonging to Cameron Cobbold, 1st Baron Cobbold, entered by Knebworth House, has won this year’s public vote to become the Hertfordshire Museum Object of the Year 2026.

Throughout the afternoon, there was a real sense of shared purpose and celebration. Despite the challenges the sector continues to face, the atmosphere in the hall was full of energy, optimism and pride. Attendees spoke warmly about how valuable it was to come together, hear about one another’s work, and recognise the achievements of colleagues and partners.

As ever, the event would not have been possible without the support of many people. Our sincere thanks go to our presenters, Dani Bailey, Julie Gregson, Alistair Hodgson, Ruth Stratton, Cllr Chris Lucas and Stephen Lowy, as well as our brilliant judging panel: Jenny Oxley, Lisa Gale, Jill Brown and Stephen Lowy. We are deeply grateful to the team at the British Schools Museum for hosting us with such generosity, and to everyone who helped plan, support or contribute to the day.

Most of all, thank you to our nominees, winners and Heritage Heroes. Your creativity, dedication and hard work continue to strengthen the museum landscape across Hertfordshire, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate your achievements.

We look forward to seeing you all again next year, and to hearing the stories, projects and ideas that will shape the 2027 awards.