Revisiting the Great Exhibition of 1851

The Great Exhibition of 1851 was a “World Fair of Nations” that showcased industry, innovation and imperial ambition during Victorian Britain. But how should we reflect on its legacy—one that still resonates 175 years later?
Profits from the Great Exhibition helped establish the museums, colleges and cultural institutions of South Kensington. But its influence extends far beyond. The global networks of industry, empire and exchange that shaped the Great Exhibition are also part of the complex histories that connect people across the UK today.
Together, our panel will take us back inside the Crystal Palace to explore what was on show, what was left out and how these decisions link to Imperial ambitions that exploited and suppressed people from the wider world.
We will also learn who came, what they thought of it and how attending might have influenced their understanding of the world, and Britain’s role within it. Finally, the panel will consider the Great Exhibition’s modern legacy, asking to what extent we are still living with a worldview that the Great Exhibition helped create?
Content Warning: This panel will include discussion of topics linked to imperialism, colonialism and slavery.

This event is part of the Great Exhibition Road Festival on 6-7 June 2026.

Please arrive at the venue 10 minutes before the start time. Your ticket gives you priority access, however, as this is a free event we overbook to help ensure a full event and your space may be reallocated. Early arrival reduces this risk.

6-7 June 2026

South Kensington’s annual celebration of science and the arts returns this summer with a weekend of free events for all ages.

Enjoy hands-on workshops, fascinating talks, performances and installations from iconic museums, research and culture organisations in South Kensington, including Imperial College London, the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, V&A, the Royal Parks, the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851 and many more!

Find out more about the Festival and see the full programme on the Festival website at www.greatexhibitionroadfestival.co.uk.

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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Lydia and Manfred Gorvy Lecture Theatre, Level 3, Victoria and Albert Museum, London, United Kingdom

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