In 2025, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is celebrating 125 years of impact and innovation.
From our inception in 1900, with a team of 22 scientists and engineers focussed on standardising instruments, testing materials and determining physical constants at Bushy House, we have gone on a monumental journey.
Fast forward 125 years, our 1,000+ strong workforce has cemented NPL as a world-class centre of excellence, proudly responsible for maintaining the UK’s primary measurement standards and improving prosperity and quality of life the world over.
We take great pride in our heritage and where we have been, the impact our world-class expertise is making on today's communities and the legacy this will create for future generations.
Join in our 125 anniversary celebrations and stay up to date on the latest news and events.
Tell us your story
Our community and alumni have been instrumental to our success over the past 125 years. We’d love to hear your experience from the distant, or recent past.
Tell us your story for a chance to be featured on our website.