The Barbican Centre is the beating cultural heart of the City of London and the largest multi-arts venue in Europe. Set within the monumental Brutalist Barbican Estate, it brings together a concert hall, theatres, cinemas, art galleries and one of London's hidden gems, a tropical conservatory, under one famously labyrinthine roof.
Why visit
It is a one-stop cultural powerhouse and an architectural landmark in its own right. Home to the London Symphony Orchestra, it programmes everything from classical and contemporary music to film, dance, theatre and major art exhibitions.
What to see and do
Beyond the performance halls, the Barbican Art Gallery stages ambitious shows, the cinemas screen everything from blockbusters to art house, and the free-to-visit Conservatory, open on selected days, is a jungle of plants high above the City.
Visiting tips
Foyers, the lakeside terrace and many free displays can be enjoyed without a ticket. Barbican and Moorgate stations are closest; follow the yellow line on the pavement to navigate the estate. It sits beside the Barbican and the City.
