In 2026, Gray’s Inn will mark the 400th anniversary of the death of Sir Francis Bacon (1561-1626), one of the most influential figures in British intellectual history and a Member of the Inn whose life and career were deeply intertwined with Gray’s Inn.
Bacon joined Gray’s Inn at the age of just 15 to study for the Bar and was called in 1582. Over the course of his life, he maintained a close relationship with the Inn, shaping and being shaped by its intellectual, cultural and social life.
To commemorate this milestone anniversary, Gray’s Inn will host a year-long programme of events, including an archival exhibition, guided tours and a celebratory dinner in Hall.
Bacon400: An Exhibition by the Library and Archive
Location: Library
When: Feb-Jun 2026
At the heart of the celebrations is Bacon400, a special exhibition curated by the Gray’s Inn Archive. The exhibition traces key moments of Francis Bacon’s life through his connection with the Inn, exploring how Gray’s Inn provided a backdrop to his personal development, professional ambition and intellectual pursuits.
The exhibition will take visitors on a journey through the Inn, including:
- 1 Gray’s Inn Square – Bacon as a teenager, joining the Inn at just 15 years old
- The Chapel – A young advocate taking his first steps in leadership and management
- The Hall – His involvement in the Revels and the cultural life of the Inn
- South Square – Bacon’s time as Treasurer of Gray’s Inn
- The Walks – Reflections at the end of his life, contemplating the pleasures of the garden
Through these spaces, the exhibition reveals a more personal portrait of Bacon, grounding his extraordinary achievements in the everyday life of the Inn.
The Gray’s Inn Library holds a significant collection of Francis Bacon manuscripts, offering further insight into his thinking and legacy.
Events Programme
Alongside the exhibition, Members will be invited to take part in a series of special events, including:
A formal dinner in Hall to mark the anniversary – Thursday 21 May 2026
Sir Francis Bacon and Gray’s Inn – Guided Tours
Exploring Bacon’s life, work and connection to the Inn
- Friday 20 February 2026
- Tuesday 16 June 2026
- Thursday 5 November 2026
Portrait in Hall
The Francis Bacon Society has placed a portrait of Sir Francis Bacon (1561–1626) on loan with Gray’s Inn, where it will be displayed in Hall throughout 2026.
The oil-on-canvas portrait is a partial copy of the famous likeness by Paulus van Somer, painted during Bacon’s lifetime (c.1617–1622). Its artist and exact date are unknown. The original is held by the Royal Society.
This display marks the first public showing of the portrait since its extensive restoration. It now hangs on the East Wall in Hall alongside other figures central to the Tudor and early Stuart courts – many of whom Bacon knew personally, including Queen Elizabeth I, Sir Nicholas Bacon and Lord Burghley.
A powerful addition to the Inn’s historic collection during this anniversary year, visit the Hall to view the portrait.