National Portrait Gallery launches CLUB NPG free membership for 16–25 year olds

The National Portrait Gallery has introduced CLUB NPG, a free membership scheme for 16 to 25-year-olds offering £5 exhibition tickets, discounted events, retail offers, early access, and a free digital subscription to Face to Face magazine. Developed with young people, the initiative aims to remove financial barriers and foster long-term engagement. Research showed 25% of this age group cited ticket prices as the biggest barrier, while 41% reported improved art knowledge after visits, 27% felt creatively inspired, and 25% gained better understanding of others' perspectives. Over 1,000 young people joined in the first month. Members can access £5 tickets for the current exhibition Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait, which will have extended Thursday evening hours until 9pm throughout August. Ivi Varda, Head of Membership and Loyalty, emphasized affordable access and a sense of belonging. The scheme is supported by a private donor and is one of the most comprehensive youth membership offers at a major UK cultural institution.