When it comes to sleepovers, this experience is truly unparalleled: a night in a plush bed set amidst the exhibition halls of the National Gallery, where you’ll drift off under the gaze of the world’s finest masterpieces.
You might find yourself inspired by these esteemed works, perhaps leading you to take up painting, or you may have a fantastical adventure reminiscent of Ben Stiller’s character in *Night at the Museum*, a night security guard whose exhibits spring to life after dark. It’s even possible you could uncover a long-hidden mystery and see your revelations featured in the next thrilling Dan Brown novel.
For the first time in its history, the National Gallery in [London](https://www.theguardian.com/uk/london) is providing an overnight experience to the fortunate individual who wins its newly launched raffle, just in time for its upcoming public reopening next month.
In celebration of the gallery’s 200th anniversary, this competition will grant access to the first member of the public allowed into the Sainsbury Wing after its two-year hiatus, where they can partake in the grandest rehang of the entire collection, named CC Land: The Wonder of [Art](https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/art).
Individuals aged 18 and older who subscribe to the National Gallery’s newsletter will automatically be included in the draw for a night’s stay in a bed located on the “bridge” connecting the Sainsbury Wing to the rest of the gallery. Submissions will be accepted until 6 PM on April 28, with the winner chosen at random.
According to the gallery, the evening will commence with a dinner for two at the soon-to-open restaurant, Locatelli. After the public has departed, the winner will enjoy an exclusive private tour of the exhibition led by Christine Riding, the National Gallery’s director of collections and research.
As they roam the gallery, they will encounter over 1,000 artworks that chart the evolution of Western European painting from the 13th to the 20th century, showcasing both beloved classics and pieces that have never graced the National Gallery before.
“This marks the first occasion we have had such a thrilling chance to rethink and revitalize the presentation of one of the world’s premier art collections in a single space,” remarked Riding. “Our visitors will rediscover some of the most celebrated and iconic artworks ever created, alongside personal favorites and fresh acquisitions.”
The following morning, the winner will receive a breakfast hamper and enjoy some private time to explore the gallery prior to the public’s arrival for the Sainsbury Wing’s reopening at 10 AM on May 10.
The National Gallery’s rehang is its most comprehensive in years. This year’s bicentennial celebrations will also see the unveiling of a supporters’ house for members and patrons, as well as a new learning center.
The National Gallery is experienced in hosting overnight events. In January, it [opened its doors for 24 consecutive hours](https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/jan/09/national-gallery-all-nighter-van-gogh-poets-lovers-final-weekend) during the last weekend of its popular Van Gogh exhibition, which drew over 200,000 visitors. This was only the second instance in its history that the gallery remained open overnight, the first being for the Leonardo da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan exhibition in 2012.
Sir Gabriele Finaldi, director of the National Gallery, stated: “Our bicentenary offers the ideal opportunity to explore a novel narrative for the extraordinary paintings within our collection, along with some delightful surprises.
“It seems appropriate that this prize draw allows one of our guests to have an exclusive first glimpse of the newly revamped National Gallery and Sainsbury Wing and to enjoy these magnificent artworks all to themselves for one unforgettable night.”
