London’s cultural scene is world-class and many of the city’s most popular museums and galleries are free to visit. But with so much to see, it can be difficult to cram it all into the day. Fortunately, there is a long list of attractions that open at night for a nightly cultural fix. And there’s way beyond the exhibits, from DJ sets and pop-up bars to candlelight tours and exclusive movie screenings.
Museum of Natural History
- When: The museum is open from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm on the last Friday of each month (except December).
- What’s Up: In addition to seeing dinosaurs after dark, you can interact with scientists at pop-up science stations and enjoy cocktails and snacks at The Kitchen. Depending on the night, you can watch open mic performances, special screenings, or current affairs debates.
- How much: Free entry. You may need to reserve tickets in advance for some events.
- Where: The nearest tube station is South Kensington.
The science museum
- When: The museum is open from 6:45 pm to 10:00 pm on the last Wednesday of each month.
- What’s Up: These adults-only theme nights focus on a different theme each month and feature talks, screenings, hands-on workshops, and fun demos. Regular events include pub tryouts, speed dating, and a silent disco.
- How much: Free entry. You may need to reserve tickets in advance for some events.
- Where: The nearest tube station is South Kensington.
The Victoria and Albert museum
- When: The museum is open from 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm on the last Wednesday of each month.
- What’s Up: Events are often themed to coincide with the museum’s current exhibits, but each month you’ll find a vibrant mix of live performances, movie screenings, art installations, debates, and DJ sets. You can have drinks in the Grand Entrance and John Madejski Garden throughout the night.
- How much: Free entry. All timed events are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Where: The nearest tube station is South Kensington.
Museo de Sir John Soane
- When: The museum is open from 6 pm to 9 pm on the first Tuesday of each month.
- What’s Up: Every month the museum is lit with candles for an atmospheric evening of culture. The historic home is filled with antiques, paintings, furniture, and sculptures from the collection of Sir John Soane, a distinguished 19th century architect.
- How Much: Free but it is a very popular event and numbers are limited. The first 200 people waiting in line after 5:30 pm will get a ticket.
- Where: The closest tube station is Holborn.
National Portrait Gallery
- When: The gallery is open from 6 pm to 9 pm every Thursday and Friday.
- What’s Up: Explore the gallery’s extensive collection to the sounds of a resident DJ and enjoy drinks from the Late Shift Bar. Conversations, discussions, and direct drawing classes add to the mix.
- How much: Free entry. You may need to reserve tickets in advance for some events.
- Where: The nearest tube station is Charing Cross.
The British Museum
- When: The museum is open until 8:30 p.m. M. Every Friday.
- What’s Up: The museum’s main collections and some exhibits open after dark every Friday. Additional events include lectures, debates, screenings, and live music and dance performances. The Great Court Restaurant, located under the iconic vaulted ceiling designed by Norman Foster, accepts dinner reservations on Fridays.
- How much: Free entry. You may need to reserve tickets in advance for some events.
- Where: The closest tube station is Holborn.
Tate Modern
- When: The gallery is open from 6 pm to 10 pm on the last Friday of each month (except December).
- What’s Up: Browse the gallery’s vast contemporary collection after hours and enjoy pop-up events including talks, hands-on workshops, and live music. Try the digital sketch pads and don’t leave without enjoying a cocktail at the Terrace Bar.
- How much: Free entry. You may need to reserve tickets in advance for some events.
- Where: The nearest tube station is Southwark.
