Bank of England Moves Toward Wildlife Theme for New Banknotes

The Bank of England has been reviewing public preferences for the next series of banknote designs, following a consultation process that began in July 2025. The consultation aimed to gather input on possible themes for future banknotes.

According to the Bank of England, the public consultation attracted more than 44,000 responses. Participants were asked to select their preferred themes from a range of options provided by the Bank.

Nature emerged as the leading choice, with 60% of respondents selecting it as their preferred theme. Other popular themes included architecture and landmarks, which received support from 56% of participants, and notable historical figures, chosen by 38%.

The Bank of England stated that the design and imagery for the new banknotes should assist with authentication by being accessible, safe, and secure. The Bank has also confirmed that the portrait of the monarch will remain a feature on the next series of notes.

What the numbers show

• More than 44,000 people responded to the consultation
• Nature was selected by 60% of respondents as the top theme
• Architecture and landmarks received 56%, historical figures 38%, arts, culture and sport 30%, innovation 23%, and milestones 19%

To support the development of wildlife imagery for the new notes, the Bank of England has appointed a panel of wildlife experts. The panel includes Gordon Buchanan, Miranda Krestovnikoff, Nadeem Perera, Katy Bell, Steve Ormerod, and Dawn Scott, who will help create a shortlist of suitable images.

The Bank of England has outlined that the selected theme and imagery must meet requirements for security and accessibility. This approach is intended to ensure that the new banknotes can be easily authenticated and are safe for public use.

While nature was the most popular choice, other themes such as arts, culture and sport, innovation, and noteworthy milestones also received notable support from respondents. The Bank has taken these preferences into account as part of its design process.

The next steps involve the expert panel working with the Bank to develop a final shortlist of wildlife imagery. The Bank of England will continue to provide updates as the design process progresses and further decisions are made regarding the new series of banknotes.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.