Twelve months of unmissable London shows

Samurai battle gear next to Star Wars costumes. Marilyn Monroe and Frida Kahlo up close and personal.

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Wallace & Gromit figurines and Tracey Emin's bed (not, it should be stressed, in the same place). And the grand return of the Bayeux Tapestry... 2026 is shaping up to blow the blockbuster exhibitions of years prior out of the water. Here's what we're most looking forward to:

SAMURAI

British Museum

Whether you're fascinated by the warrior class that emerged in Japan's 12th century, or a fan of Assassin's Creed: Shadows, there will be something here to pique your interest. This major exhibition tracks the legendary samurai from the medieval battlefield to the horror of surrender that defined Japan's role in the Second World War. Don't miss the chance to see the silk-laced battle gear sent by Shōgun Tokugawa Hidetada to King James I, alongside the Darth Vader costume from Star Wars: A New Hope that was inspired by Kurosawa's 1958 samurai film The Hidden Fortress. Fitting, then, that the exhibition closes on May the fourth (be with you). February 3 to May 4

LUCIAN FREUD:

DRAWING INTO PAINTING

National Portrait Gallery

There hasn't been a major retrospective of Lucian Freud's work at the National Portrait Gallery since 2012, just after his death. As the subtitle suggests, this show will explore Freud's fascination with the human face and form through his preparatory works. Drawings in pen, pencil, ink and charcoal will be displayed alongside a selection of paintings. Eight etchings have also been acquired, one of which depicts his daughter Bella Freud, purveyor of covetable slogan knitwear. Fingers crossed there's a collaboration in store with the gallery's impeccable gift shop. February 12 to May 4

INSIDE AARDMAN: WALLACE & GROMIT AND FRIENDS

Young V&A