Experience an extraordinary overnight retreat at St Paul’s Cathedral, marking a special occasion in celebration of World Book Day. For the duration of just a single night, two very lucky guests will have the unparalleled, and enviable, privilege of residing within the cathedral’s secret library.

Guided by the faint glow of candlelight, guests will traverse through the hallowed halls, entering through the discreet threshold of the dean’s door. Ascending the spiralling staircase, a masterpiece of architectural genius crafted over three centuries ago by Sir Christopher Wren, they will ascend to the pinnacle of the cathedral, where the recently restored library awaits. Within its hallowed confines lies a treasury of knowledge, housing an extensive collection of over 22,000 texts, ranging from the illuminated manuscripts of medieval times, to the latest literary offerings of the modern era.

The stay encompasses a gracious welcome by the dean, an immersive exploration of the cathedral’s rich history, a wonderful dinner experience at a nearby restaurant, and the coveted privilege of receiving autographed copies of upcoming literary works. As dawn breaks, guests will ascend once more, this time to the iconic dome of the cathedral, to conclude their experience with a breathtaking vista of the London skyline, Sandra Lynes Timbrell, the cathedral’s director of visitor engagement, expressed her enthusiasm, remarking on the opportunity for the fortunate guests to uncover the hidden treasures and storied legacy of St Paul’s.

The cost of this exclusive experience, priced at £7 per night, underscores its accessibility, with booking requests set to open on March 12th at 10 am via Airbnb. Amanda Cupples, Airbnb’s general manager for northern Europe, shared her excitement for the collaboration, extending an invitation to avid readers, history aficionados, and seekers of unique experiences alike.

Alyssa Castaneda, the director of brand strategy at Penguin Random House in the US, lauded the partnership as a testament to the enduring magic of literature, offering participants a once-in-a-lifetime odyssey through the pages of history and the realms of imagination. Don’t miss your chance to embark on this enchanting journey, where the past converges with the present, and the world of literature intertwines with the grandeur of architectural marvels.