Everything You Need to Know About the David Bowie Centre at the V&A East

The highly anticipated David Bowie Centre for the Study of Performing Arts opens at the V&A East Storehouse in London on September 13, 2025. This event promises to be a monumental moment for Bowie fans and music lovers, with more than 90,000 items from his personal archives on display. If you’re planning to visit or simply want more details about the exhibition, this guide covers all the essential information.

When and Where is the David Bowie Centre Opening?

• Opening Date: September 13, 2025
• Location: V&A East Storehouse, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London

The V&A East Storehouse, opening earlier on May 31, 2025, forms part of the new cultural hub at East Bank in Stratford, East London. This area is quickly becoming a major destination for exhibitions, including the David Bowie Centre. Conveniently located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, it’s easily accessible via public transportation.

What to Expect at the David Bowie Centre

The David Bowie Centre offers a deep dive into the life, work, and legacy of one of the greatest artists in modern history. Here’s what awaits visitors:

A Vast Collection of Memorabilia

The centre will house over 90,000 items from Bowie’s personal archives, offering visitors an unmatched view of his career. This impressive collection includes:

• Costumes from Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane eras.
• Handwritten lyrics for hits like Fame, Heroes, and Ashes to Ashes.
• Musical instruments used throughout his career.
• Stage designs and models from his iconic performances.
• Personal artifacts like letters, photographs, and sketches.

This will be the most extensive public display of David Bowie memorabilia ever assembled, providing fans a unique chance to experience his creative process firsthand.

Immersive Exhibits

The exhibition isn’t just a standard museum experience. Interactive audio-visual installations, curated displays, and quiet study areas offer a dynamic way to engage with the Bowie archive. The centre’s layout guides visitors through different stages of Bowie’s career, highlighting his albums, collaborations, and unreleased projects.

Every zone offers insight into Bowie’s artistic persona, from his groundbreaking albums to his experimental writing techniques, such as the “cut-up” method introduced by William Burroughs.

Free Entry

The best part? Admission is free, ensuring that fans from all walks of life can explore the exhibition. This aligns with the V&A’s mission to make art and culture accessible to everyone.

Order An Object: A Personalized Experience

The Order An Object initiative allows visitors to pre-book items from the vast V&A collection for private viewing. This includes pieces from the David Bowie archive. Whether it’s a handwritten lyric or a costume, this service offers a more personalized and intimate experience.

How to Get There

By Tube or Train:

• Stratford Station (Central Line, Jubilee Line, Overground, and national rail services) is the nearest transport hub. It’s a short walk from there to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the V&A East Storehouse.

By Bus:

• Bus routes including 308, 339, and 97 serve the park, providing easy access from various parts of London.

By Car:

• Several nearby car parks, including those at Westfield Stratford City, are within walking distance.

What Else Is Happening at the V&A East Storehouse?

The David Bowie Centre is just one of several exciting exhibitions at the V&A East Storehouse. This cultural hub will also showcase:

• A Glastonbury Festival exhibition, covering the history of the iconic event.
• Costumes worn by music legends like Sir Elton John and PJ Harvey.
• A vintage football shirt collection, appealing to both sports and fashion enthusiasts.

In 2026, the V&A East Museum will open, expanding the offerings at East Bank even further.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

The David Bowie Centre is expected to draw large crowds, so here are a few tips for making the most of your visit:

• Arrive early: The exhibition is likely to be busy, especially in the opening weeks. Plan to visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
• Check for special events: The V&A often hosts talks, workshops, and screenings alongside exhibitions. Keep an eye on their website for Bowie-related events.
• Explore the park: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park offers beautiful outdoor spaces, public art installations, and nearby attractions like the ArcelorMittal Orbit tower.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Event

The David Bowie Centre will be a landmark exhibition for music and culture lovers. With free entry, a vast collection of memorabilia, and an interactive experience, the exhibit offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dive deep into Bowie’s world.

Don’t miss this chance to explore Bowie’s life and legacy. For those looking to take home a piece of Bowie, our collection of David Bowie vinyl records and David Bowie posters offers the perfect way to continue celebrating his legacy.