Life Through a Royal Lens at The Amelia Scott runs from 13th February 2026 – 7th June 2026.
They are one of the most photographed families in the world, with everything from state ceremonies and royal tours to deeply personal moments captured on camera. Now, in February, a major photography exhibition arriving at The Amelia Scott will explore the British Royal Family’s enduring relationship with the camera; from the reign of Queen Victoria right through to the present day.
Life Through a Royal Lens will see over 100 of the most iconic royal photographs ever taken go on show alongside intimate images which share a glimpse of the Royal Family off duty. The exhibition, which first launched at Kensington Palace, is embarking on a brand new UK wide tour of venues, including The Amelia Scott in Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Alongside images commissioned from pioneering photographers of the Victorian era, as well as 20th and 21st century giants of modern royal portraiture such as Cecil Beaton, the exhibition includes a selection of images taken by Royal Family members themselves, alongside images by Marcus Adams, Annie Leibovitz and Rankin. The exhibition at The Amelia Scott will be brought right up to date, featuring the last public photograph taken of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, alongside portraits and press photographs from the first three years of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s reign, including Josh Shinner's recent photograph of the Prince and Princess of Wales, and their children.
Life Through a Royal Lens has been created by Historic Royal Palaces – the independent charity that cares for Kensington Palace – and is toured by Nomad Exhibitions. The display is curated by expert historians in order to showcase the enduring relationship between the Crown and the camera over three centuries.
The Amelia Scott is a unique location in the heart of Tunbridge Wells that brings people and culture together. Our vibrant program of exhibitions, workshops, family activities, talks, and events is designed to inspire, engage, and entertain visitors of all ages, offering opportunities for learning, creativity, and community connection.
Jeremy Kimmel, Arts, Heritage and Engagement Director at The Amelia Scott, comments on the exhibition;
"Royal Tunbridge Wells has a unique story to tell. From the first royal visit in the early 1600s to what was then just woodland, to becoming the favourite summer retreat of Princess Victoria, our town has been shaped by centuries of royal connections.
Life Through a Royal Lens isn't just about royalty; the images reflect moments of national identity, cultural change, and shared experience. Whether you’re fascinated by tradition, photography, or the stories behind iconic images, this exhibition offers something for everyone.
We are also thrilled to be able to show this brilliant exhibition from Historic Royal Palaces to the west Kent public completely free of charge - so that everybody has the same opportunity to enjoy it on their doorstep."
Eleri Lynn, Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces, said, “The medium of photography has shaped public perception of the British monarchy since Queen Victoria and Prince Albert first embraced it for their own family portraits. For the first time, this display of images spanning 300 years of family photoshoots, commissioned portraiture and official engagements will embark on a tour intended to span the UK. We are thrilled that visitors to Life Through a Royal Lens at The Amelia Scott will be able to explore the history behind the iconic image of modern monarchy we know today.”
Historic Royal Palaces is the independent charity that loves and looks after six of the most wonderful palaces in the world. The palaces are the setting for the stories that shape us all, and we’re bringing them to people in ways that mean more to them. We want everyone to find themselves in the spaces and stories we share.
Registered charity number 1068852. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk
Nomad Exhibitions is an award-winning UK-based company that specialises in the design, production, and management of engaging and experiential temporary, touring, and permanent interpretive exhibitions for museums and cultural venues worldwide. With their experienced team of design and construction experts, they work in partnership with museums and cultural venues to create unique concepts, design outstanding exhibitions, and bring these projects to life through expert construction and installation management and market-leading sustainability practices.
Instagram: @nomadexhibitions