As one of London’s most iconic brutalist housing estates, the Barbican often elicits mixed reactions. With its towering concrete towers, elevated walkways, and maze of tunnels, it can seem imposing and inaccessible to outsiders. Yet behind its hard exterior lies a vibrant community, world-class arts venues, and an oasis of urban relaxation. So is it worth visiting this architectural wonder and cultural hub? Let’s take a look at what the Barbican has to offer.
History and architecture
The Barbican was built between 1965 and 1976 on a WWII bomb site in the City of London. It was designed by architects Chamberlin, Powell and Bon as part of the postwar reconstruction of London. The estate’s distinctive brutalist style, featuring rough unfinished concrete, bold geometric shapes and elevated pedestrian walkways, was seen as innovative social housing at the time.
The residential estate contains over 2,000 flats in three 43-story tower blocks – Cromwell, Shakespeare and Lauderdale. These are complemented by lower terraced blocks with maisonettes, while the Barbican Arts Centre, school, lake and gardens are located in the center. The estate was Grade II listed in 2001 due to its architectural significance.
Key facts
- Built between 1965-1976
- 35 acre site with over 2,000 flats
- Features 3 high-rise towers, terraced maisonettes and lakeside houses
- Grade II listed brutalist icon
While considered an eyesore by some, the estate’s formidable concrete façades and elevated walkways are an iconic example of mid 20th century brutalist architecture. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying the Barbican’s striking visual impact.
Arts and culture
Beyond its architecture, the Barbican is most famous as a major arts and cultural hub. At its heart lies the Barbican Centre, Europe’s largest multi-arts venue. Home to the London Symphony Orchestra and Barbican Theatre, it hosts music, theatre, dance, film and art. The Centre surrounds a large tranquil lake and houses a public library, three top-class restaurants, and Europe’s biggest conservatory.
Key venues
| Venue | Description |
|---|---|
| Barbican Theatre | 1,200 seat theatre hosting drama, musicals and dance |
| Barbican Concert Hall | 1,900 seat classical music venue, home of LSO |
| The Pit | 200 seat theatre for emerging artists |
| Barbican Art Gallery | Major international modern and contemporary art |
| Barbican Cinema | 3 screens showing indie/arthouse films |
As well as hosting world-class arts and culture, the centre contains expansive public spaces, lakeside gardens and over 200 trees. This oasis of green amidst the urban jungle has an almost village-like atmosphere.
Living in the Barbican
So what’s it like living in London’s most iconic housing estate? Around 4,000 residents live in the estate’s flats and maisonettes. Interiors are light and airy, featuring parquet flooring and ample living space. While service charges are high, facilities are first-rate.
Communal gardens provide green space for relaxing or exercising. Podium level gardens separate pedestrians from traffic and are safe for children. Lakeside lawns host outdoor theatre in summer. There are indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts and a popular community centre.
Resident perks
- On-site childcare, doctors and dentists
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- Rooftop tennis courts and gym
- Tropical conservatory and gardens
- Dedicated schools on-site
- Discounted tickets for Barbican arts events
The Barbican offers city living at its best. While the long, brutalist corridors can seem daunting, inside there’s a warm community amid lush green spaces. Add in world-class culture on your doorstep, it’s clear why residents love living here.
Location and transport
Located in the north-west of the City of London financial district, the Barbican offers speedy access to central London. It sits next to major rail and underground stations, while buses stop throughout the estate.
Key transport links
| Mode | Details | Duration to centre |
|---|---|---|
| Underground | Barbican tube station (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines) | 10 mins to Bank |
| Rail | Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations | 5 mins to Bank |
| Bus | Many services including 43, 153, 205 | 15 mins to Oxford Circus |
The City’s business district is right on the doorstep, while Shoreditch and the West End are easily reachable. Well connected both locally and centrally, the Barbican makes a practical base to explore London.
Things to do
With so many amenities available, there’s plenty to keep you occupied right on the estate. But it’s also a great base for exploring the surrounding areas of London too. Here are some top things to do:
On the estate
- Catch a gig, play or exhibition at the Barbican Centre
- Go for a swim in the tropical indoor pool
- Stroll around the lakeside gardens and city oasis
- Browse the shops and cafes at the estate’s foot
- Enjoy cocktails or Sunday lunch at the Barbican’s luxury restaurants
Nearby attractions
- Wander around the boutiques and cafes of Shoreditch
- Marvel at St Paul’s Cathedral and views from One New Change
- Catch a show in the West End theatre district
- Learn about London’s history in the Museum of London
- Explore bustling Borough Market near London Bridge
With leafy canals, sleek skyscrapers and ancient streets surrounding it, the Barbican makes a great base for discovering London.
Is it worth visiting?
If you’re interested in architecture, arts or just experiencing local life then yes, the Barbican is definitely worth a visit! Here are some of the key reasons to visit this iconic London estate:
- Immerse yourself in iconic brutalist architecture
- Access world-class theatre, music and art
- Escape the bustle amid tropical plants and lakes
- Live like a local in heart of the City
- Quick transport links to central London
While it won’t appeal to everyone’s architectural tastes, there’s no denying the Barbican’s cultural significance. Alongside its striking concrete towers lie world-class performance spaces, galleries, cinemas, shops and restaurants.
So if you want to discover London’s distinctive postwar heritage while enjoying arts, gardens and community living, make sure to pay the Barbican a visit.