A literary overnighter in a secret library inside one of London’s most beloved landmarks is up for grabs in a special World Book Day deal offered by Airbnb and “Abby”, a BookToker and content creator.
22,000 books
A place most people could only dream of, St Paul’s library is lined with wooden shelves, library ladders, riddled with cosy nooks, and 22,000 books, including classics and new releases by Holly Jackson, Kevin Kwan and John Grisham from Penguin Random House US’s stable. Wingback chairs, a marble fireplace and Chesterfield sofas complete the look.
“The recently restored library at St Paul’s has long been a secret gem of the Cathedral – cleverly concealed by the ingenious architecture of Christopher Wren. Some very fortunate guests will now get the chance to delve deeper into the history and wonder of St Paul’s with this truly one-of-a-kind stay,” said Sandra Lynes Timbrell, the cathedral’s Director of Visitor Engagement.
What will the stay be like?
Food is not allowed in the library, so the evening starts with dinner at a nearby restaurant, before entering St Paul’s Cathedral for a meeting with the Dean and a tour of the building. The Hidden Library is accessed via the Dean’s door and an impressive 300-year-old Geometric Staircase and sits at the top of the steps.
Guests will sleep in a double bed with wooden headboard in the library’s bedroom and have access to the reading room, the nooks and the library of St Paul’s Cathedral. There are toilet facilities available nearby. It will mark the first time that anyone has officially slept inside the Cathedral since the days of World War II when St Paul’s Watch protected the building.
After breakfast the following day, the visitors will be able to climb up to the iconic dome of St Paul’s Cathedral. They will also receive signed and stamped as-yet-unreleased books to take home.
All for just £7
In a stroke of marketing genius that is set to rival the tension of getting a festival or concert ticket, bookings go live online on 12 March 2024 for the evening of 15 March 2024. Two lucky guests will be able to book the treat for just £7 (just over €8), but they will have to be quick.
“The Hidden Library of St Paul’s Cathedral’s is truly a haven for book-lovers seeking the ultimate literary escape,” said Airbnb’s northern Europe manager, Amanda Cupples. “Whether you’re a bookworm, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique experience in London, we are thrilled to open up the doors to the library of your dreams, and one of the most iconic buildings in the world.”
