Everyone seems to love the idea of being able to spend a night at a museum. There’s something exciting and adventurous about the notion of being able to wander around a museum in the middle of the night and explore the collections and exhibitions. But can you actually spend the night in the Natural History Museum? Let’s take a look at the facts.
Can You Spend the Night in the Natural History Museum Overnight?
The answer is yes! The Natural History Museum in London – one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world – offers a unique experience called ‘Museum Lates.’ Holders of Museum Lates tickets will get access to all the museum’s galleries, exhibits and activities, except for the Darwin Centre, until 10 pm every Friday.
How to Get Access to Museum Lates
There are two simple steps to get access to Museum Lates.
Step 1: Become a Member
The first step is to become a member of the Natural History Museum. Membership costs £70 (as of 2019) and includes free ticketed entry to the museum, exclusive access to events, discounts in shops and cafes and free entry to the Special Exhibition Galleries.
Step 2: Buy Your Museum Lates Ticket
The second step is to buy your ticket for the Museum Lates. Tickets are available online and cost £20 for adults and £13 for children (as of 2019). When purchasing online, you will need to specify the date you are buying the ticket for.
What Are The Rules for Museum Lates?
Museum Lates is designed for adults only, and anyone aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 and over. Tickets are not refundable, so make sure you choose the correct date before purchasing. The use of cameras, flash and tripods is not allowed – only small handheld cameras are permitted.
What Activities Can You Do at Museum Lates?
The Museum runs special activities throughout the evening that explore the world of natural science. All of the museum’s current exhibitions will be open to explore and you may even get to participate in some special activities, including nature-inspired science challenges, interactives, quizzes, talks and artworks.
Each Museum Lates evening has a different theme, such as ‘creatures of the night’ or ‘journeys through time’, and activities are centered around this theme.
What Is Not Allowed At Museum Lates?
The Museum has a few rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all its visitors. No running, kneeling, sitting or climbing on display items is allowed, and no food or drinks (except for water) are allowed in the galleries.
Can You Sleep in The Museum?
Unfortunately, sleeping in the Museum is strictly forbidden – as are overnight camping and camping equipment. Additionally, you are not allowed to bring pets, and visitors must leave by the advertised closing time of 10 pm.
What Other Things Should You Know?
The Museum has a few other rules to be aware of. Visitors may not bring large bags or suitcases into the venue, and any bag greater than 55 cm x 40 cm must be left in the cloakroom. Additionally, smoking, alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited. It is also important to remember that tickets not pre-booked via the Museum’s website cannot be exchanged or refunded.
What Are The Benefits of Spending the Night at the Museum?
Exploring the world-renowned Natural History Museum in the evenings can provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. You will have a chance to explore some of the newest and most exciting exhibitions, learn about the history of the Museum, and get immersed into the world of science through interactive activities.
From kitsch pop-up events to more immersive theatrical performances – Museum Lates offers something for everyone. After all, where else can you explore a museum after dark, learn more about nature and science, and be able to stay until the late hours of the night?
Visiting the Natural History Museum in the evenings can provide you with a uniquely exciting and enjoyable experience. With Museum Lates, you can explore the galleries and exhibits without the crowds of the day, participate in interactive activities and get exclusive access to special events. Remember the rules of the Museum and have a great time!
