
London After Dark
Planning a trip into London can be quite a challenge, as there are so many things to do with so little time. London at night is one that the tour guides will not usually present to you, but one that you can definitely see for yourself. We want to make sure you are making the most of your time in London and schedule some night time activates into your itinerary. London comes alive after dark and you don’t want to miss seeing the city lit up in all its twinkling glory. Here are our favourite things to do in London at night.
Take in the London Landscape
When the sunset hits London, the sparkling lights and night time reflections are truly remarkable. Take a wonder down the River Thames where you will find the reflections of London’s beautiful attractions and monuments such as the London Eye and Houses of Parliament. You can also visit one of London’s best free attractions, the Sky Garden. Offering sweeping views of the city from its 34th and 37th stories.
London Museums at night
With so many London museums to explore, why not take advantage of late openings and visit them when they are not as crowded – after dark. Many of these venues are open late on Thursdays, Fridays and even Saturdays – here is a quick list for you to plan your visit.
Thursday late openings: The National Portrait Gallery closes at 9pm and The Barbican Art Gallery is open until 10pm
Friday late openings: The British Museum stays open until 8:30pm, The National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery both close at 9pm. Tate Modern, and Victoria & Albert Museum both shut at 10pm
Saturday late openings: Tate Modern is open until 10pm
Double Decker Bus Tour
Instead of spending lots of money on an organized bus tour, do it yourself and be your own guide. There are many options, depending on where you start off, and what you want to see. Climb to the top deck and sit back and enjoy the illuminated London sights. There are several routes that you can do, but we recommend taking the 11 Bus. With this self-guided public bus tour, you will see many major icons such as Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Bank of England and more.
Shopping
If there isn’t enough hours in the day for all the shopping you’re planning to do, the good news is that there are some select streets and shops in London that are open after hours, for all your late night shopping needs. West End, Central London and Kensington High Street stores are usually open until 8pm or 9pm on Thursdays, while Chelsea and Knightsbridge shops stay open late (8pm or 9pm) on Wednesdays. We recommend popping into Harrods, only a stones throw away from The Rembrandt. Monday to Saturday, Harrods is open until 8pm and 6pm on Sunday.
The Rembrandt
Forget about your long journey home and book a night at The Rembrandt, walking distance away from Harrods and some of London’s top museums. Book direct with our Advance Purchase Rate and enjoy 20% off, a free drink in the bar, full English breakfast and 10% off beauty treatments.
Back to all posts