Top 5 Sleepovers in London

If you’ve ever wondered what goes on at the museum at night, if zoo animals actually sleep or what it’s like to stay aboard a Royal Navy ship, you can find out for yourself at one of our top 5 London locations for overnight stays...

By Charlie Walker | Updated Apr 15 2024

A young boy lies on a pillow inside a natural history museum, with dinosaur skeletons and exhibit displays visible in the background. Other people, including children, are gathered around in the space, suggesting a sleepover or special event.

Whether you're craving a break from your mundane mattress or eager for a change of scenery, the city offers a plethora of unique sleepover experiences that will leave you wide-eyed with wonder. From snoozing with dinosaurs to bunking down aboard a Royal Navy ship, London's top sleepovers promise an unforgettable blend of excitement and exploration. Join us as we unveil the most thrilling overnight stays the city has to offer, guaranteed to satisfy both the young and the young at heart.

Astronights at the Science Museum

A group of five children, wearing neon green vests, interact with a large touch screen table exhibit displaying a cityscape in a dimly lit museum. White models of buildings are in the foreground, while various historical artifacts are seen in the background. — sciencemuseum.ac.uk

Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD

Calling all young astronomers and budding scientists, this overnight extravaganza is a celestial celebration of all things space and chemistry. From conducting your own experiments to mastering the art of origami, Astronights promises an out-of-this-world experience that's sure to ignite curiosity and spark imagination. Held at the iconic Science Museum on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, London, this cosmic adventure kicks off at 18.45 and runs until 10 am the following morning, ensuring a night of astronomical antics and scientific shenanigans. Tickets are priced at £70 per person, with upcoming dates on Friday, 7 September, Saturday, 6 October, and Saturday, 1 December. But wait, there's more! Upgrade to VIP status for extra comfy sleeping arrangements, delectable breakfast options, and dedicated assistance from our stellar usher team.

DinoSnores (for Adults) at The Natural History Museum

A colorful graphic featuring the text Dino snores for grown ups on the left in blue font. To the right, an image of two adults sitting among a crowd, backlit by the light, surrounded by dinosaur silhouettes and a dark purple background. — nhm.ac.uk

Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

Bid adieu to mundane evenings and unleash your inner child as you snuggle up with the dinosaurs for a night of fossil-fueled festivities. Sip on a complimentary drink as you roam the iconic Hintze Hall beneath the watchful gaze of the majestic blue whale, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Indulge in a sumptuous three-course dinner fit for a paleontologist, then dive into a treasure hunt, a pub quiz, and even a live animal workshop courtesy of ZooLab. Brace yourself for a science show, stand-up comedy, and a late-night movie marathon that'll have you roaring with laughter until dawn. Need a pick-me-up? Bars will be serving drinks and nibbles until the wee hours, with complimentary tea and coffee to fuel your nocturnal escapades. As the morning sun rises, savor a cooked breakfast and join a rejuvenating yoga session before continuing your exploration of the museum. To discover more, click here.

DinoSnores (for Kids) at The Natural History Museum

Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

Calling all young explorers aged 8 to 11, it's time to embark on a prehistoric sleepover like no other- DinoSnores! As the sun sets, dive into a torch-lit trail through the famous Dinosaurs gallery, where ancient creatures come to life under the glow of your flashlight. Prepare for live animal shows in the evening and morning, where you'll get up close and personal with fascinating critters from around the globe. And the cherry on top? You'll snuggle up for the night in the Central Hall next to the legendary Diplodocus skeleton, affectionately known as Dippy. From creating your own dinosaur t-shirt to enjoying an educational science show presented by a museum expert, this 'roarsome' night promises endless fun and discovery.

Lodge At London Zoo

Two young girls observe a lioness through a glass enclosure at a zoo. The girl on the left is wearing a pink shirt with a black jacket tied around her waist, while the girl on the right is taking a photo with a camera. The lioness stands close to the glass. — Londonzoo.org

ZSL London Zoo, Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY

Looking for a wild night out in London? Lodge at London Zoo—an overnight escape where you can sleep with the animals without ever leaving the city! Nestled within roaring distance of the Asiatic lions, these private lodges offer a luxurious staycation for both families and adults alike. Prepare for exclusive after-hours tours of the zoo at sunset, after dark, and in the early morning, where you'll discover the hidden secrets of the animal kingdom from experienced hosts. Plus, enjoy a two-course dinner, full English breakfast, and the chance to explore the zoo at your leisure during your stay. Sadly, the BedBUGS sleepover is no longer running, but fear not—the Gir Lion Lodge promises a more luxurious experience, complete with comfy beds, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandas. Prices start from £150 per person, with family nights suitable for children aged 5-13 and adult nights welcoming guests aged 14 and over.

Kip In A Ship on the HMS Belfast

A young girl in a beige coat points and smiles while standing on a ship's deck at night. The background features a lit-up suspension bridge and cityscape reflecting on the water. — iwm.org

The Queen's Walk, London SE1 2JH

Avast ye mateys, it's time to set sail for a swashbuckling sleepover aboard the HMS Belfast with Kip in a Ship! Dive into the depths of history as you bunk down in real sailor's quarters on this legendary warship of the Royal Navy. With space for up to 52 children and six adults, this nautical adventure promises a night of maritime marvels and seafaring stories. From semaphore signaling to deciphering Morse Code, Kippers will learn the ropes of life at sea while exploring the ship's decks under the stars. Plus, enjoy exclusive tours of the Captain's Bridge and Flag Deck, where you can soak in the iconic London skyline at night. Prices start at £64.

Young Friends Sleepover at The British Museum

Two boys in a dark outdoor area. One boy is standing, holding a lantern and wearing a headlamp, looking up with an absorbed expression. The other boy, wearing a red hoodie, is kneeling beside him, gazing up at the lantern. A building is faintly visible in the background. — Benedict Johnson via the British Musem

Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG

Step into the spotlight as you explore the museum's hallowed halls after hours, surrounded by kings, gods, and the occasional mummy. From storytelling sessions to music and dance workshops, each sleepover boasts a unique historical theme designed to transport you through time and space. With activities running from 7 pm to midnight, there's plenty to discover under the cover of darkness. As the night winds down, nestle among the mummies in the Egyptian galleries or bed down by the Balawat Gates in the Assyrian galleries for a truly memorable slumber. Tickets are £65 per person, and budding historians aged 8 to 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Discover more here.

The Golden Hinde Sleepover

Three people are examining a large, black cannon inside a historic wooden ship. Two of them are wearing dark jackets, while the third is dressed in historical clothing. The setting appears to be below deck, with wooden beams and a rope visible near the cannon. — The Golden Hinde via Facebook

St Mary Overie's Dock, Cathedral St, London SE1 9DE

Step back in time to the Elizabethan era as you board this legendary English Galleon, once helmed by the infamous Sir Francis Drake himself. Dressed to impress in Tudor sailor attire, you'll be welcomed by colorful characters from the ship's history, who will teach you the ropes of seafaring life—from cannon drills with the Gunner to navigating the high seas with the ship's Master. But beware the tales of the grisly Barber Surgeon, whose lurid stories may make you shiver in your breeches! After a day of learning the skills required to sail the high seas, it's time to bed down for the night on the ship's gundeck. Dinner and breakfast are provided, ensuring you're well-fed for your maritime escapades. Prices start at £45pp, and guests will be back on dry land by 9 am the next morning. Check the website for upcoming dates and booking details.