Rotherhithe’s famous Brunel Museum will close until summer 2025 as part of a landmark refurbishment that will restore and reveal new parts of the historic Engine Room.
The £1.85 million makeover will take place from September 2024 until summer 2025. Visitors can also expect a brand-new welcome pavilion and new ramps and lifts to make the site more accessible.
The Brunel Museum celebrates the story of the Brunel family who were at the heart of the Industrial Revolution.
As part of the refurbishment, the Engine House and the Grade II* listed Tunnel Shaft will be restored to their former glory and a new gallery created.
Many parts of the Engine House are currently closed to the public but the makeover will open them up meaning a tripling in exhibition space.
A collection of images known as the Thames Tunnel watercolours will also go on display for the first time.
Produced during the construction of the Thames Tunnel, many were drawn, painted and hand-signed by the Brunels themselves.
They were acquired by the museum in 2017 and have been waiting to find their permanent home in the restored Engine House.
Before closure, the Museum is celebrating with a range of activities over the summer.
The refurbishment is made possible by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Stuart McLeod, Director at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are delighted to support the Brunel Museum to help it transform its spaces and experience for future visitors – whether from the local schools, the wider community or further afield.
“Not only does it restore two historic buildings, but it will also create an accessible space where people can come to discover the stories of one of the most important historic families to revolutionise our cities.
“Investing in heritage such as this means that a wider range of people can be involved in heritage. This is a mandatory outcome for all of the projects we support.”