Barbican Arts Centre

Barbican Arts Centre
Barbican Arts Centre showing a skyscraper, skyline and a city
Barbican Arts Centre featuring skyline, a high-rise building and a city


Discover an eclectic schedule of art, cinema, dance, music and theatre events at one of the largest performing arts centres in Europe.

The Barbican Arts Centre is a multilevel cultural centre and a one-stop venue for wide-ranging performing arts events. It is a place to experience and be inspired by the talents of exceptional artists and artistic organizations. The Barbican Arts Centre is home to a cinema, concert halls, galleries and theatres in addition to bars, cafés and restaurants. Queen Elizabeth II inaugurated the centre in 1982 and it is billed as a gift to the people from the city of London.

There is something to suit almost all tastes at the centre. Attend recitals by the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra. Watch performances by contemporary musicians such as the South African pianist Abdullah Ibrahim and the Japanese drumming ensemble, Kodo. Delight in interpretations of Baroque and classical music by the Academy of Ancient Music.

Peruse the travelling exhibitions on display at the Barbican Art Gallery. Admire works by Turner-prize winning artists and discover a celebration of the influential 20th-century designers Charles and Ray Eames. Find more art on display at The Curve gallery.

Enjoy performances of Shakespearean plays by the Royal Shakespeare Company at the Barbican Theatre. Encounter experimental theatre, such as interactive puppet shows, at the intimate The Pit. See everything from the latest Hollywood blockbusters to independent movies and 3-D screenings at the centre’s cinema.

Spend some time appreciating the centre’s architecture, which displays a prominence of the Brutalist movement of the mid-1900s. Learn about the history of the building, its architects and astonishing facts on guided architecture tours.

Situated to the north of London’s City of London neighbourhood, the Barbican Arts Centre is easily accessible via public transport. The Tube stations Barbican and Moorgate are just a short walk from the centre. The centre has an on-site car park, for which fees are applicable.

The centre is open daily and admission is free, although fees apply for individual exhibitions and shows. A full schedule of events, talks and workshops is available on the centre’s official website.

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Things to do near Barbican Arts Centre

The Barbican Arts Centre offers a wealth of activities for visitors, including engaging art exhibitions, captivating theatre performances, and a variety of shopping opportunities. Don't miss the chance to embark on an architecture tour to appreciate the stunning design of this iconic venue, making your visit truly memorable.

Shopping

Borough Market, located 621m from the Barbican Arts Centre, offers vibrant food stalls and artisanal goods. The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4, 1.2km away, is perfect for fans. Royal Exchange, just 311m away, combines shopping with entertainment in a historic setting.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at the O2 Arena, where you can catch thrilling sports events. Enjoy live music and entertainment at the ABBA Arena, and unwind at Hampstead Heath, a tranquil haven perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car, offering stunning views 3.1km from Barbican Arts Centre. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill, located 621m away, provides an exciting outdoor challenge. Alternatively, enjoy karting at Oasis Go-Kart Track, situated 2.5km from the centre.

Nightlife

The Barbican Arts Centre boasts vibrant nightlife options. Enjoy stunning views atop the London Eye, indulge in cultural performances at the Globe Theatre, or catch a romantic film at Everyman Cinemas Screen on the Green. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere perfect for a memorable evening out.

Find the best attractions near Barbican Arts Centre

Visitors to the Barbican Arts Centre can immerse themselves in a vibrant mix of culture and family-friendly experiences, with nearby attractions including charming streets, historic churches, and lively piazzas. For convenience, explore nearby hotels for comfortable stays, and don't miss out on the wealth of local attractions that enhance your visit to this iconic arts hub in London.

  • Tower Bridge: This iconic Victorian bascule and suspension bridge offers stunning views of the Thames and the city skyline. Explore the glass-floored walkway and learn about its fascinating history through interactive exhibits, making it a captivating blend of culture and engineering.
  • Tower of London: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic castle is steeped in history and intrigue. Discover the Crown Jewels, hear tales of royal intrigue, and wander through its ancient walls, all while experiencing a sense of romance and history.
  • London Bridge: A modern marvel, this bridge combines sleek design with a vibrant atmosphere. Located near bustling markets and eateries, it’s perfect for soaking up the city vibes while enjoying picturesque views of the River Thames.

Best time to go to Barbican Arts Centre

The best time to visit Barbican Arts Centre is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Barbican Arts Centre

To save money on your visit to the Barbican Arts Centre, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel a month in advance can secure better rates, especially on Sundays, which are cheaper. Use Expedia to compare room rates, filter for budget-friendly options, and look for package deals that combine flights and activities. Additionally, explore free attractions in the area and utilise public transport, as it offers a cost-effective way to navigate London.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Barbican Arts Centre are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Barbican Arts Centre about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Barbican Arts Centre is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Barbican Arts Centre is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at the Barbican Arts Centre with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.