Barbican Arts Centre Tours and Activities

Barbican Arts Centre
Barbican Arts Centre which includes a city, skyline and a skyscraper
Barbican Arts Centre showing a city, a skyscraper and skyline


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 center 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 theaters in addition to bars, cafés and restaurants. Queen Elizabeth II inaugurated the center 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 center. 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 traveling 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 theater, 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 center’s cinema.

Spend some time appreciating the center’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 neighborhood, the Barbican Arts Centre is easily accessible via public transport. The Tube stations Barbican and Moorgate are just a short walk from the center. The center has an on-site car park, for which fees are applicable.

The center 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 center’s official website.

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Best Lodging Options Near Barbican Arts Centre

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Montcalm Royal London House, London City

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Point A Hotel London Liverpool Street

Point A Hotel London Liverpool Street

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Maldron Hotel Shoreditch London

Maldron Hotel Shoreditch London

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LSE Rosebery Hall - Campus Accommodation

LSE Rosebery Hall - Campus Accommodation

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Club Quarters Hotel London City

Club Quarters Hotel London City

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Barbican Arts Centre

At the Barbican Arts Centre, immerse yourself in a vibrant mix of art and theatre, while exploring its stunning architecture. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a cultural evening filled with diverse entertainment options. For a deeper experience, consider joining a guided tour to uncover the best attractions and shopping spots nearby, making your visit both enriching and enjoyable.

Shopping

Borough Market, located 1.6km away, offers vibrant city vibes with fresh produce and artisanal goods. The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4, 3.2km away, is a must-visit for fans. Brunswick Centre, also 1.6km away, combines shopping with family-friendly entertainment.

Recreation

At the O2 Arena, immerse yourself in vibrant sports events that energize the spirit. The ABBA Arena offers exhilarating music experiences, perfect for entertainment enthusiasts. For a serene escape, Hampstead Heath invites you to relax amidst nature, providing a peaceful retreat to rejuvenate your mind and body.

Adventure

Experience thrilling adventures near Barbican Arts Centre. Enjoy a ride on the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car, located 8.0km away, offering stunning views. Challenge yourself at Vertical Chill climbing wall, only 1.6km away, or race your friends at Oasis Go-Kart Track, situated 6.4km away.

Nightlife

The Barbican Arts Centre buzzes with nightlife, featuring the iconic London Eye, offering adventure vibes, just 3.2km away. Enjoy the cultural and romantic atmosphere at the Globe Theatre or the Royal National Theatre, both under 1.6km from the centre, perfect for family entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Barbican Arts Centre

Discover the vibrant Barbican Arts Centre in London, where you can explore cultural landmarks such as charming streets, historic churches, and lively squares. This area is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike, offering a unique blend of experiences. Don't miss the chance to delve into the rich offerings of the Barbican Centre, a hub for art and performance, and enjoy the surrounding attractions that showcase the essence of London city life.

  • Tower Bridge: A stunning symbol of London, Tower Bridge is a historic drawbridge featuring Victorian architecture and panoramic views of the Thames. Visitors can explore the glass-floored walkway and learn about its fascinating history.
  • Tower of London: This iconic castle offers a blend of history and romance, showcasing the Crown Jewels and tales of intrigue. Its medieval walls and stunning architecture create a captivating atmosphere for history enthusiasts.
  • London Bridge: A modern engineering marvel, London Bridge connects the vibrant city with its dynamic atmosphere. Stroll across and enjoy the impressive skyline while experiencing the lively energy of the surrounding area.

Best time to go to Barbican Arts Centre

The best time to visit Barbican Arts Centre can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Barbican Arts Centre falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Barbican Arts Centre falls in January, 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 RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
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 RainMostly 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 CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Barbican Arts Centre

To save money on your trip to the Barbican Arts Centre, consider visiting between January and March for lower accommodation rates. Booking a hotel about a month in advance or checking Expedia's last-minute deals can help you secure better prices. Sundays are the most affordable nights to stay, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly hotels and sort by price to catch the best deals. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in a package can also lead to significant savings.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Barbican Arts Centre is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at the Barbican Arts Centre with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.