Designed for children aged 7–11 and their adults, Astronights is a structured overnight event built around space-themed activities, hands-on interactive sessions and LOADS of experiements as well as after-hours museum access and a surprisingly smooth schedule. We attended as a family — originally booked as one adult and two children, but with a last-minute change that meant my partner joined instead. If anything, it made the evening easier to navigate. We’ve done a reel here – check out our experience in video form.
What the Night Looks Like
After arrival, registration and settling in to your designated camping area, families are guided through a series of hands-on science workshops, interactive challenges and trails through the museum. It’s busy without being chaotic, and importantly, the activities are pitched firmly at children rather than diluted for adults. The kids will love it. On our visit we had a lot of groups attending for a birthday celebration – such a brilliant idea.
Exploring the Science Museum after closing time is a big highlight. The galleries feel calmer, more atmospheric, and far easier for children to engage with without daytime crowds.
Sleeping Arrangements (Manage Expectations)
Sleeping is functional rather than comfortable. You’re provided with a thin mat (or if you are doing the VIP experience, a blow up bed and a tempur camping pillow) you’re asked to bring your own sleeping bag; everyone beds down on the gallery floor. It’s not luxury, but it doesn’t pretend to be. The excitement of sleeping in a museum does most of the heavy lifting here.
Morning After
Breakfast is included the following morning, things like croissants, fruit and cereal, followed by final access to parts of the museum. Depending on your ticket and schedule, this can include experiences such as the IMAX cinema and Wonderlab — both of which significantly elevate the overall offering.
How It Compares to Other Museum Sleepovers
We’ve previously done Dino Snores at the Natural History Museum, and while that has its own appeal, Astronights comes out on top for us. The Science Museum experience feels more deliberately designed for children, with higher-energy programming and the added draw of IMAX and Wonderlab. It’s more interactive, less observational and better suited to this age group. That being said, the architecture at the Natural History Museum is more aesthetically impressive.
The Verdict
Astronights isn’t about getting a good night’s sleep. It’s about giving children a distinctive, well-run introduction to science in a setting that feels special without being gimmicky.
For families looking for something different — and genuinely engaging — this is one of the stronger overnight experiences in London.
Cost is £80 for the standard ticket and £120 for VIP. More info and bookings here.