For racing aficionados, it’s the world’s most exclusive sleepover: on 19th March, DoubleTree by Hilton joined forces with McLaren to host a money-can’t-buy experience our famous headquarters, to celebrate the opening of 2016’s racing season: Australia’s Grand Prix race.

We opened the doors to the McLaren Technology Centre, home of the McLaren-Honda Formula 1 team, located in Surrey, UK, at night for the first time exclusively for this midnight sleepover. As a top-secret research and development facility, access to the centre is tightly controlled – making this a unique opportunity.

It truly was the golden ticket. Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with DoubleTree by Hilton’s signature chocolate chip cookies and a sparkling glass of Chandon before embarking on a guided tour around the facility including a review of the team’s historic cars, a behind the scenes look at the McLaren-Honda racing facility, an interactive Mission Control experience and pit stop challenge.

The countdown to the race began with a night of Formula 1-related entertainment including special screenings of iconic race-themed movies. Guests had the chance to soak up the atmosphere from their very own DoubleTree by Hilton Sweet Dreams Bed, complete with hotel room amenities, including towels, slippers and Aroma Active products typical of a DoubleTree by Hilton stay, whilst sleeping alongside some of the world’s most iconic racing cars.

As the sun rose, the lucky winners watched the highly anticipated race from Albert Park, Melbourne, with access to McLaren’s bespoke circuit-data feed, timing and telemetry systems straight from the track. They also enjoyed breakfast, making it the best place to watch the race outside of the Paddock Club.

Here's what Aligi Gardenghi, vice president marketing, EMEA Hilton Worldwide, had to say before the event:

“We’re excited to reward Hilton HHonors members with this unique money-can’t-buy experience at one of the leading and most historically significant innovation hubs in the world - just one benefit of joining our award-winning loyalty program. We’re thrilled to bring DoubleTree by Hilton’s hospitality to this exclusive event, with its unique culture focusing on the ‘little things’ that make a huge difference to guests’ travel experiences. We look forward to taking care of the ‘little things’ so that guests can sit back and enjoy the race in style!”

Jenson Button added:

“The idea of a sleepover at the MTC is really cool – and it sounds like the DoubleTree by Hilton guys are going to do everything they possibly can to make sure that everyone has a really unique time. The MTC is a pretty special place at any time of the day – the blend of history, heritage and high-technology is incredible – but an event during the night, with lots of enthusiastic fans sharing the space together and creating a very special atmosphere, will be unbelievable. 

“The first race of a new Formula 1 season is always one of the most exciting of the year – it’s unpredictable, eventful and often surprising. And this is a really great way to celebrate McLaren-Honda, and Formula 1’s return to the world’s stage.”

This event was available exclusively to Hilton HHonors members, Hilton’s free-to-join loyalty program.

Hilton, an official corporate partner of the McLaren-Honda Formula 1 team of 11 years, provides the team with a home from home at over 20 race locations, including DoubleTree by Hilton, one of its 13 brands.