10 English events and exhibitions ending soon

by Katie Rowe

A new year means new beginnings, but if you’re quick you can still catch a glimpse of some of these cultural gems before they close this January.

From a West End show to smaller indie productions, exciting exhibitions on Royal clothing to nostalgic icons of youth, there’s lots to check out this January suggests Danielle Jones. 

1) Strike a pose for Fashioning the Reign, Windsor Castle

Heritage lovers and fashionistas alike can discover more about our reigning monarch’s wardrobe. Showcasing opulent gowns and accessories, as well as childhood fancy-dress costumes, the exhibition brings together the frocks and fashion as well as how the Queen has supported British designers and milliners during her reign. Entrance is £20 (Until 8 January)

>> Find more things to do in Berkshire

2) Stifle a giggle at Rocky: A Horror Show, Bristol

Float like a butterfly, sting like a Time Warp? This stage spectacle at the Wardrobe Theatre is like nothing you have ever seen. Head back to the mean streets of 1976 Philadelphia for a fabulous spectacular of song, as Rocky Horror meets Rocky Balboa for a mash-up to end all mash-ups. Tickets are £10 (Until 21 January)

>> Get to know Bristol

3) Take a peek at Animal Inside Out, Newcastle

Not for the faint-hearted are the final days of Gunther von Hagens’ Animal Inside Out. The anatomist is well known for his controversial, but fascinating, work after creating his technique of plastination. Here you can see a side of the animal world normally concealed by fur and feather. Entrance is included in a Life Science Centre ticket for £14. (Until 8 January)

>> Find more things to do in Newcastle

4) Discover the sad truth of Bedlam, London

This exhibition brings together the interesting if unfortunate history of Bethlem Royal Hospital also known as Bedlam, along with other mental institutions. Taking firsthand accounts, medical testimonies and works by artists, the exhibition at the Wellcome Collection explores the rise and fall of mental asylums and their impact on society. Entrance is free. (Until 15 January)

>> Uncover more of London

5) Open your eyes for Reel Stories, Liverpool

As the second most filmed city in England, this exhibition explores how Liverpool has played an integral role in many films, even in the most subtle of instances. With film poster imagery and a contextual background to the city, Reel Stories at the Museum of Liverpool is a must for any film buff. (Until 29th January)

>> What’s going on in Liverpool?

6) Take a trip through Decades of Youth, Leeds

A visit to Abbey House Museum in Leeds will give you a blast from the past. Curated as a step back through time, this collection of artefacts, photo and film explores youth culture of Leeds through the ages; with items such as 1960s pop memorabilia and the odd Spice Girls doll. Entrance is free. (Until 29th January)

>> Find more things to do in Leeds

7) Experience Maíno’s Adorations, The National Gallery

London’s flagship gallery is host to two incredible pieces on loan from the Museo Nacional del Prado, Madrid, 'The Adoration of the Shepherds' and 'The Adoration of the Kings'. Maíno is a name not often heard out of his homeland but his talent is easy to see. Entrance is free. (Until 29th January)

>> Discover more iconic galleries, museums and libraries

8) Play Hide and Seek in Cambridge

This exhibition at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology takes a look into the role of children over the last million years. Through a series of objects such as toys, preserved footprints and even weaponry, you can see how the life of a child has adapted and changed over the course of English history. Entrance is free. (Until 29th January)

>> Find out what else Cambridgeshire has to offer

9) Admire the tiny at Microsculpture, Oxford

If you think that the world of insects is creepy, then this collection of images by Levon Biss will certainly give you a totally new perspective. Featuring close-up shots of all manner of creature, you can see the beauty of nature from the most unlikely of places. Entrance is free. (Until 29 January)

>> Find things to do in Oxfordshire

10) Wave goodbye to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory London

This dazzling throwback to a childhood favourite has won rave reviews from theatregoers and critics alike. Step into the magical world of Willy Wonka and his factory filled with yummy secrets and Oompa Loompas. Directed by Academy Award® Sam Mendes this is definitely a treat, not to be missed. Tickets start at £32.55 (Until 7 January)

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