The exhibitions you must see this May

Glittering jewels, portraits of (alleged) lovers, exposing letters. Dive into the life of an extravagant Stuart king who became the subject of royal gossip as whisperers probed his sexuality. But was it based on fact? Or was it fuelled by bitter rivals? Find out in this fascinating exhibition shining a light on the first monarch to rule over England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Celebrate 250 years since JMW Turner and Jane Austen were born at this major exhibition showing their work side by side for the first time. Witness an imaginary encounter between the prolific painter and beloved writer who both shared an interest in British country houses. And did you know? We supported this exhibition.

Dig into gardening's transformational impact on people, communities and the natural world – from supporting our wellbeing to enriching our homes with green spaces. Highlights on display include: the oldest lawnmower in the world; a vasculum belonging to Charles Darwin to collect plant specimens; intricate botanical illustrations from across the globe; and so much more.

Marvel at 18th-century masterpieces by leading European painters, including Thomas Gainsborough, Angela Kauffman, Joshua Reynolds and George Romney. This Art Fund supported exhibition showcases Gainsborough's connections with fellow artists across Britain and France, and offers a rare opportunity to see his iconic paintings at his Suffolk birthplace.

Cecil Beaton was a renowned 20th-century fashion photographer who captured glamorous high society figures, worked for Vogue for 30 years, and designed the iconic costumes worn by Julie Andrews in My Fair Lady. And did you know? Flowers were central to his creative process. Uncover Beaton's love for everything floral – from the extravagant flower installations he built for his lavish parties to his incorporation of fresh blooms in his photographic portraits.

Experience a powerful work by artist and filmmaker Steve McQueen. The film is a response to the fire that took place at Grenfell Tower in West London in June 2017, a tragedy in which 72 people lost their lives, and documents the tower after the fire. The national tour of this important work has been supported by us.

Dive into 125 years of British art in this exhibition revealing how artists have represented their peers. From the Bloomsbury Group to the Young British Artists, you'll discover how different artists embraced portraiture, revealing relationships and inspirations.

Another one for lovers of gardens and green spaces – this major exhibition explores the future of garden design and celebrates pioneers, such as Derek Jarman, in the field. Plus, you'll gain insights into how outdoor spaces influence our lives and other creative fields such as art and fashion.

Meet an innovative feminist artist who broke traditions and taboos. Helen Chadwick's provocative works blended beauty conventions with the grotesque, employing materials such as bodily fluids and meat. And did you know? She was one of the first women artists nominated for the Turner Prize. And while you're there, don't miss Caroline Walker: Mothering, an exhibition of a contemporary painter examining the everyday lives of mothers.