Barbican Theatre

The Barbican Theatre is part of the wider Barbican complex and arts centre, hosting a huge range of theatre performances, concerts, film screenings and so much more.

The Barbican Centre is home to two art galleries, two theatres, three cinemas, a concert hall and even a tropical conservatory.

The Barbican Theatre in London

The iconic building, rebuilt after the Second World War, is known for its bold brutalist design. One of London’s most unique architectural complexes, it’s a city within a city, now Grade II listed.

Within the Barbican Centre, you can find not one but two theatres (the main theatre and smaller studio theatre, The Pit), both known for showcasing some of the finest performances around. The programme is carefully curated, investing in outstanding talent and inviting audiences to experience international theatre and boundary-pushing live productions. 

What’s on at the Barbican Theatre

The Barbican Theatre is renowned not only for its unique Brutalist architecture, but also for its groundbreaking seasonal programmes. These include shows that rival those of the West End, such as the Olivier Award-winning production of Fiddler on the Roof, which was performed at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre before transferring to the Barbican. The theatre also staged a variety of Royal Shakespeare Company productions, including Henry IV. Les Misérables initially opened at the Barbican before transferring to the West End and becoming one of the longest-running shows in the history of the West End.

To see the theatre's current and upcoming shows, click the booking button on this page.

Barbican Theatre history

The Barbican Theatre first opened in 1982, as part of the larger Barbican complex, which is known as one of the biggest multi-arts centres in Europe. The building, famous for its eclectic arts programme, is one of London’s top cultural venues.

The theatre itself was originally designed for the Royal Shakespeare Company, making it the perfect place to transfer their productions from Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, straight to the London stage. The Barbican is also home to the London Symphony Orchestra, one of the world’s top orchestras. 

Recently, the Barbican welcomed the Olivier Award-winning My Neighbour Totoro, which was nothing short of a showstopper! Audiences can’t get enough of it, and now it’s moved to the West End, still wowing crowds with its magical mix of storytelling and jaw-dropping visuals.

Why you should go

• Diverse programme – Whether you're into groundbreaking theatre, or live music performances, the Barbican Theatre has something for everyone.
• Iconic performances – Home to bold productions and innovative performances, the Barbican Theatre is a must-visit for theatre lovers, offering a dynamic programme that brings acclaimed international and local talent to the London stage. 

Barbican Theatre seating plan

The Barbican Theatre not only offers a great view of the stage from every angle but is also known for its incredibly comfortable seating. With a capacity of 1,100 seats, the venue is designed for a relaxed yet immersive experience.

Here’s a breakdown of the different seating sections to help you decide what seat to choose for your next show:

• Stalls – Right at the heart of the action, the Stalls offer a closer view of the stage.
• Circle – With a slightly elevated view, seats within the Circle offers an overall view of the entire stage.
• Upper Circle and Balcony – If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, these sections still provide a good view of the stage while further away.

Is the Barbican Theatre accessible?

The Barbican Theatre is committed to being as accessible as possible, and in 2020 it won the prestigious Euan’s Guide Award for Best Accessible Venue in London. 

A selection of performances are captioned, with captions displayed on a screen near the stage and accessible seating reserved nearby. Audio-described performances are also available on specific dates, with headsets available from Stalls Left and Stalls. British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters are also available at select performances to assist deaf and hard of hearing audiences. Seats in the stalls close to the signer are reserved for BSL users and must be booked in advance.

The Barbican Centre’s entrance is equipped with ramp access for wheelchair users, located on Silk Street, which leads directly to the Foyer on the ground floor. From there, lifts provide easy access to all levels of the building.

Please contact the venue for more details about accessibility.

How do I get to the Barbican Theatre?

The Barbican Theatre, located on Silk Street. 

How to get there: 

• Underground – Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith and Metropolitan lines) and Moorgate (Circle, Hammersmith, Metropolitan and Northern lines) are the closest Tube stations to the theatre.
• Bus –  Hop on the 153 bus and stop at Beech Street (Stop BN) just in front of the Barbican.
• Cycling – Rent a Santander Cycle bike and head towards Silk Street where you can find a docking station right by the Barbican Centre.

Visit London top tip

If you’ve booked tickets to see a show, make sure to arrive at the Barbican with a little extra time to spare. There’s plenty to explore, from the gift shops stocked with unique pieces by up-and-coming artists to free exhibitions and installations, including a fascinating model of the Barbican Centre and estate, straight from the archives. For a moment of calm, soak up the Barbican’s iconic architecture with a peaceful stroll along the Lakeside Terrace – a hidden oasis away from London’s hustle and bustle.

Don’t miss it: The Barbican Conservatory

For an extra treat, head to the Conservatory. Tucked away inside the Barbican, it’s one of London’s largest hidden tropical gardens and only open on selected days – an unexpected escape in the heart of the city!

Wander through lush greenery and enjoy a peaceful stroll or find a quiet spot to sit with a book and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. Take your time to explore the variety of exotic plants and flowers, and don’t forget to head upstairs, where a striking cactus and succulent house awaits – a real hidden gem within this urban jungle.

Check the available dates and book your free ticket in advance on the Barbican website to avoid missing out.

What time does the Barbican box office open?

The Barbican box office is located on level G and is opened every day from 10am to 7.30pm. 

Please note that to avoid queuing on site you can book your theatre tickets for shows performing at the Barbican directly with Visit London by clicking on the Book Now button.

What food and drink is available at the Barbican?

Plenty of food and drink options are available within the Barbican Centre, the perfect option for all kind of cravings. 

• The Barbican Kitchen, located on the ground floor, offers a wide range of options from freshly made sandwiches and salads, as well as a selection of street food options.  
• The Barbican Bar and Grill by Searcy’s offers a menu blending modern British dining with comforting classics. The venue offers a pre-theatre menu featuring mouthwatering charred aubergines topped with burrata for starters as well as beef bourguignon for main, among other options.   
• The Martini Bar, located on the first floor, is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink before the performance, with a menu of fine cocktails ranging from classic Negronis to signature creations and, of course, expertly crafted martinis. 

Does the Barbican have a cloakroom?

A free cloakroom is available on Level -1, opening 90 minutes before a performance starts. Please note that only small items are allowed to be taken in the theatre, with larger bags to be stored in the cloakroom. 

Which hotels are nearby to the Barbican?

There’s no shortage of hotels around the Barbican, with options to suit every budget and style. Here are some of our top picks:

• Montcalm Brewery Townhouse (five minute walk)
  A historic boutique five-star hotel just moments from the Barbican. Set within a restored Georgian townhouse next to the Montcalm Brewery, it offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of London  and is perfect for those seeking quiet luxury.
• The Moorgate by Cove (eight minute walk)
  A stylish three-star hotel in the heart of the City of London, offering fully serviced apartments. With sleek interiors and all the amenities you could need, it’s an ideal choice for longer stays or anyone looking for a home-from-home experience.
• Travelodge London Central City Road (10 minute walk)
  Ideally located in vibrant Shoreditch and just a short walk from the Barbican, this budget-friendly hotel doesn’t compromise on comfort. Expect contemporary décor, a great night’s sleep and excellent value for your London adventure.