London museums with late opening hours

London has some of the most visited museums in the world, attracting not only a multitude of tourists but also drawing in the locals. A notable aspect of the city is the availability of cheap hotels in London, catering to visitors who wish to explore these cultural landmarks without overspending. Many of London's museums cater to the after-work crowd, staying open late on certain days of the week or month. This makes it convenient for those staying in these affordable accommodations to visit the museums at their leisure.

1. Barbican Art Gallery
2. The National Portrait Gallery
3. Natural History Museum
4. The Science Museum (and the Dana Centre)
5. Tate Britain
6. The V&A
7. The Wellcome Collection
8. Whitechapel Gallery

So, if you're planning a London weekend break and are too busy to explore during daylight hours, interested in unique one-off events, or prefer a child-free atmosphere, these late-night openings are ideal. They perfectly complement a weekend trip, allowing you to maximise your time in the city. Additionally, with the added benefit of easily accessible, budget-friendly lodging options, your cultural exploration in London during your weekend break can be both enriching and economical.

1. Barbican Art Gallery

From Thursday to Saturday you can stay late (8pm) at the Barbican Art Gallery for art-related events. Afterwards, you're in the perfect place to see everything else the Barbican Centre has to offer in the evening, including drinks, food, free wifi, and late films in one of the cinemas. 

2. The National Portrait Gallery

On Thursdays and Fridays you can spend a few 'Late Shift' hours in the National Portrait Gallery, which stays open until 9pm. Check their events schedule, which sometimes includes free live music. 

3. Natural History Museum

Get ready to see one of London's busiest museums at a quieter time of day. Or night. For the NHM Lates Events the Natural History Museum stays open until 10pm. They also run sleepovers too, so you can actually stay the night in the shadow of the dinosaurs.

4. The Science Museum (and the Dana Centre)

On the last Wednesday of every month, this museum is open until 10pm. Science Museum Lates are adults-only events, complete with bar. You can also try their nearby venue, the Dana Centre, for some innovative and quirky evenings out. 

5. Tate Britain

This gallery and museum holds special Late At Tate events every two months. The events are free, and usually linked to their current exhibitions. Expect anything from workshops and screenings to talks, live music and comedy. 

6. The V&A

The V&A South Kensington is open every Friday until 10pm. For something really special, bowl up to the V&A on the last Friday of the month. The programming is amazing and can be anything from a subversive Summer fete to a period-costumed ball. Most events are free but you might need to put your name down for them.

7. The Wellcome Collection

This health and wellbeing gallery and museum is open weekly on Thursdays until 8pm. After your talk or tour of the exhibition at the Wellcome Collection, be sure to leave enough time to visit their excellent cafe-bar.

8. Whitechapel Gallery

Whitechapel gallery is open until 9pm on Thursdays. They hold a variety of interesting events, including tours, talks and sometimes even host dinners.

You could also be interested in

Find your perfect trip