Exploring London's vibrant cultural scene doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. London's ‘Museum Lates’ are unique events where museums and galleries stay open late, offering a new and exciting way to experience art, history, and culture. These after-hours sessions allow you to explore world-class museums in a different light, often without the usual daytime crowds.
So, what exactly are Museum Lates? These events typically extend opening hours into the evening, offering a mix of culture, entertainment, and socialising. From exclusive talks and performances to themed parties and interactive workshops, London's late-night museums provide a one-of-a-kind experience that brings creativity to life after dark.
Many London museums open late into the evening, transforming into lively hubs of art, science, and history under the city lights. With everything from silent discos to candlelit tours, museum nights in London allow visitors to dive deeper into the city’s artistic and cultural treasures. Below, we’ll explore some of our picks of the top gallery and museum lates in London, showcasing what makes each venue a must-visit.
Science Museum
Located in South Kensington, the Science Museum is renowned for its adults-only London Lates event on the last Wednesday of every month, running from 6:30pm to 10pm. These late-night museum sessions blend interactive exhibitions, pub quizzes, silent discos, and exciting experiments in the Wonderlab. Alongside themed events that highlight influential figures and ground-breaking advancements in science, visitors can also take part in panel discussions and special activities. The Science Museum’s permanent displays offer interactive journeys into topics such as space exploration, medical history, and cutting-edge technology, making it one of the most dynamic evening museums London has to offer.
Barbican Centre
An essential stop for those looking for a late-night gallery in London, the Barbican Centre stays open until 11PM every night, with its art gallery extending hours until 8PM on Thursdays and Fridays. Located in the heart of the City of London, the Barbican is more than just a gallery; it’s a sprawling cultural complex featuring cinema screenings, live music, and theatre performances. The Barbican’s library remains open until 7:30PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and its iconic conservatory, with a commissioned piece by Indian sculptor Ranjani Shettar, is open late on Friday and Saturday evenings too. This variety of offerings makes the Barbican an ideal late night gallery London destination for both art lovers and cultural explorers.
Tate Modern
Perched on the South Bank, the Tate Modern is a top spot for late night museum experiences in London. The late-night ‘Tate Lates’ take place on the last Friday of each month, extending hours until 10PM. These events celebrate creativity through live music, DJ sets, and hands-on workshops. Visitors have the chance to delve into the Tate’s extensive permanent collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as special exhibitions. The museum’s iconic Turbine Hall, a soaring space dedicated to large-scale installations by leading contemporary artists, is always a highlight. With its lively atmosphere, the Tate Modern is a must for anyone looking to enjoy late gallery openings London at a relaxed riverside setting.
Royal Academy of Arts
In the heart of Piccadilly’s Burlington House, the Royal Academy of Arts invites visitors to experience its stunning collections late every Friday until 9PM. Known for its prestigious exhibitions and free displays of art and architecture, the Academy also hosts an array of gallery lates and special events, including the much-loved Summer Exhibition showcasing works from both established and emerging artists. Art enthusiasts can also enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine at José Pizarro’s restaurant and the Poster Bar, both open until 9PM on Fridays. With its rich selection of late-night exhibitions London, the Royal Academy of Arts is a fantastic addition to the city’s vibrant night museums.
British Museum
A landmark of historic and cultural treasures, the British Museum in Bloomsbury keeps its doors open until 8:30PM every Friday, with last entries at 8:15PM. Visitors have access to over 40 galleries, including renowned exhibits such as the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies. Each Friday Late includes a dynamic programme of lectures, discussions, film screenings, and live performances, all set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic institutions. To complete the evening, the Great Court restaurant offers a unique dining experience beneath the museum's stunning glass roof. Trust us - a visit to the British Museum after dark is an unforgettable London lates museum night event.
For an great evening of culture and creativity, explore these gallery and museum lates in London. From science and history to contemporary art, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Many of these locations are nearby our Clermont hotels, making it easy to experience the best of London’s night-time museum scene then settle in for a restful evening in Charing Cross or Victoria.