What To Do In London Come Nightfall

London is a city of two halves. By day it’s a bustling hive of business people and tourists, congregating at the city’s attractions and tube stations. By night, it’s just as lively. People pack out bars and restaurants throughout the city, merrymaking visitors and locals alike turn their collective focus to the clubs and bars. This is a perfectly good way to spend an evening, especially if you are on holiday. But do make sure you don’t miss out, London isn’t all bars and clubs; the city can offer you a lot at night. So let us help you make the most of your stay in the Chilworth Hotel London, where you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the city by night, before returning for a late night meal at some of the best restaurants near Paddington.   

London Eye Night Flight

Did you miss out on one of the city’s most iconic destinations because of the humongous crowd? Well fear not, you can visit the London Eye for a ride at night, and it’s even better. View the city’s major landmarks from above the skyline, see the illuminated Buckingham Palace, the gothic looking Houses of Parliament and the glittering Shard, all much more impressive by night. 

Museum Lates

Many of London’s museums are an incredible, albeit busy, sight during the day. But at night they take on a whole new vibe. The British Museum and The Science Museum are amongst several that host evening lectures, workshops and events once the sun has set. The British Museum is the home of British history and culture, and they hold some thought provoking screenings and host important lecutures, and on select evenings you can visit some of the exhibits. The Mummy Gallery in particular takes on a whole different feel in the dark! 

London Zoo

Yes, you have read that correctly. During the months of June and July, London Zoo hosts an adults only evening. And it’s amazing. You have free reign of the zoo and can photograph all its animals as the sun sets. This is a unique time to view some beautiful animals and enjoy the zoo in an altogether more relaxed atmosphere, but tickets are limited and sell out fast, so make sure you book in advance! 

Night Tours of the City 

If the summer air is mild and you fancy a walk about town, who can blame you; the London skyline and its iconic buildings are a sight to behold after sunset. And thanks to this, lots of companies now operate night tours of the city. There are a few bus tours you can choose from, but the best are the guided walking tours. As it’s dark, most are based around ghost stories or spooky mysteries; and of course, everyone’s favourite slasher, Jack the Ripper. Visit the murder sights and follow the trail of the notorious killer- be warned it’s more than a bit scary!   

Riverboat Cruise

If you need to relax after a horrifying Jack the Ripper tour, or if you are just looking for a relaxing way to view the city, a night time riverboat cruise is pretty much unbeatable. View the city from a new and unique perspective, pick out the landmarks on the banks and relax into your cosy seat. There are many options to choose from, but I would make sure your cruise involves some kind sparkling alcoholic drink. You’re on holiday, you deserve it. 

Stargazing at Hampstead Observatory

You may not believe this one as London is a pretty bad culprit when it comes to light pollution, but you can actually stargaze from just outside the city centre. The Hampstead Observatory has been exciting Londoners with the secrets of the universe for nearly 100 years. Head over and use their telescopes, learn about the solar system and best of all, do it for free! 

Open Air Cinema

This one is unfortunately limited to the summer months, thanks to our wonderful climate. But nonetheless, it is a spectacular way to spend an evening. There are a whole bunch of unique little screens that pop up all over the city, in parks, on rooftops, even projected onto the side of manor houses! They will often screen a mix of classics and current hits, so pick your night and enjoy. 

Drinks in Soho

Soho is one of the busiest areas in London after sundown. The streets fill with revellers and party goers, the bars overflow and so do the drinks. If this sounds like your jam then great, get going! If it sounds a little noisy for your taste, just have a quick walk around the area. Soho is full of great little wine bars and small pubs that might be more to your taste! 

Dine in 

One of my favourite things to do is find an incredible restaurant and set up camp for the evening. A long slow meal, and maybe a couple of bottles of delicious wine, with good company is a great way to spend an evening. And given the fact that London is home to some truly incredible restaurants, you’re in for a treat. You could visit some of the best restaurants Paddington London has to offer, and spend the evening sampling the menu.

Walk the Banks

If you are in the mood for a calming walk along the banks of the Thames, then you are perfectly situated to do so from one of the best hotels near Paddington Station, the Chilworth. Simply stroll through Hyde Park, pass Buckingham Palace and head on down to the Thames. The pathways that border the river are a true spectacle at night, and often pretty much deserted. Find peace and serenity by the water, then maybe head for a cheeky drink! 

Like I said, London is much more than just bars after the sun goes down. The city has so much to offer at night, you could spend a week just heading out at night and never get bored. And if you’re hungry after all these evening activities, you’re never too far from a late night food vendor to keep your energy levels up. So get out there and explore the city in the dark!