Relive the music, fashion and energy of 1996 at the Barbican.
Cool Britannia is calling. For those who are old enough, it may feel like a distant memory, before smartphones and social media took over, but 1996 at the Barbican Music Library is here to transport you straight back. Running from 16 April to 19 September 2026, the exhibition celebrates what it proudly calls “the wildest year in Britain’s wildest decade”.
Presented by the City of London Corporation and curated by author and broadcaster Dominic Mohan, this free show is a joyful tribute to a time when London felt like the centre of the universe. Expect a lively programme of talks and panels featuring some of the decade’s key players, bringing the era vividly back to life.
Step into the 90s and revel in a decade that redefined cool. From music and fashion to football and culture, it’s a chance to relive the magic, whether you were there the first time round or are discovering it afresh. It was the year of Euro 96 and Gareth Southgate’s penalty miss; the Blur versus Oasis rivalry; the Spice Girls bursting onto the scene with their debut single Wannabe; and Trainspotting, a film that told us to “choose life”.
Music lovers are in for a treat, thanks to original stage outfits from the Spice Girls and previously unseen memorabilia from Oasis. There’s also striking photography by Jill Furmanovsky and Derek Ridgers, alongside personal items from legendary DJs and producers including Paul Oakenfold, Dave Pearce and Judge Jules.
It’s a feel-good celebration of an unforgettable era. Long live Cool Britannia. Check in with FACT for the best things to do in London.
Where: The Barbican, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS
When: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9.30am to 5.30pm, Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 7.30pm, and Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm
Price: Free
Contact: www.barbican.org.uk