National Portrait Gallery reopens after biggest ever development since 1896

After a three year closure, the National Portrait Gallery has reopened today following the completion of its Inspiring People refurbishment project.

Julia and Hans Rausing donated £2 million in 2019 to support the complete refurbishment of the building and the creation of a new entrance to the gallery. In recognition of this support, the gallery has renamed Room 29, The Julia and Hans Rausing Gallery. 

The National Portrait Gallery is free to the public and is one of the only national collections to commission art works that combine contemporary pieces with the historical, making the Gallery a living archive of Britain’s most influential and famous figures.

Founded in 1856, the Gallery houses the world’s most extensive collection of portrait and ranks among the UK’s top ten most popular visitor attractions.

The £41.3 million refurbishment is the biggest ever development since the gallery opened in 1896. Highlights of this transformation include a new entrance and forecourt, returning the East Wing back to public use and the creation of a new Learning Centre.

21 June 2023