Discover the history of NPL by peeking behind the closed doors of Bushy House and its laboratories.
Delve into the past in our historical and scientific museums, meet and interact with NPL icons from eras gone by, explore the picturesque gardens, have your mind blown at our Liquid Nitrogen show and enjoy music from the NPL band and choir.
With pony rides available courtesy of Park Lane Stables and refreshments provided by the Windsor Boys and 3rd Hampton Hill Scouts, pack a picnic, bring the whole family and enjoy a day steeped in history and family fun.
What’s on?
Within the house itself you will have a chance to explore:
- The Portrait room; featuring exhibitions showcasing the history of the Metre and Radiotherapy, as well as an interactive exhibit ‘The Quantum Zone’.
- The Globe room: tread the boards of where NPL scientists of the past convened and learn about their historical breakthroughs.
- Bushy House Historical Museum: read and learn all about the history of this iconic local building and who has lived here over the years.
- The Mass Lab: visit the birthplace of the Kibble Balance, which is now used across the world to derive SI mass (the kilogram) from its new definition.
- Low Magnetic Field Laboratory: come and see where we characterise magnetic sensors for medical, automotive and space applications.
- NPL Scientific Museum: take a peek at instruments used in early experiments in mass, length, and time standards, reflecting NPL’s foundational role in establishing national measurement standards.
Make sure to book a (free) timed-entry slot to the house if you don’t want to miss out on the above.
What else is happening on the day?
There’s plenty more to explore around the grounds and gardens including:
- The NPL band will be performing several sets throughout the day. Bring a picnic, kick back and relax (please be mindful of our prohibited items list)
- The NPL choir will be performing a very special world premiere of The Passage of Time, composed by Howard Goodall (Mr Bean, Blackadder, Q.I. and The Vicar of Dibley) and inspired by 125 years of NPL
- Pony rides courtesy of Park Lane Stables
- Our ever popular and unmissable liquid nitrogen show
- Teddington Honey and limited edition NPL merchandise available to purchase
- Refreshments provided by 3rd Hampton Hill Scouts and the Windsor Boys
- …Plus a few special guests from the past!
