Need an escape from the concrete jungle? Step into another type of jungle at the Barbican Conservatory
Verdict: The Barbican Conservatory offers a free alternative to Kew Gardens. Granted, it’s a lot smaller, but it’s still very much worth a visit. And it’s closer to central London than Kew Gardens. with more things to do before or afterwards nearby.
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Directions to Barbican Conservatory
Address: Level 3, Barbican Centre, Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS
Closest tube station: Moorgate or Barbican
Admission is free.
Tickets for the Conservatory are released one month in advance online. A limited number of day tickets are released for online booking from 9:30am each day that the Conservatory is open.
Ticket holders can gain entry any time during their slot. Stay as long as you like
Check ticket availability here
What to do before/after visiting Barbican Conservatory?
- The Barbican Centre (of course). See an art exhibition, go to the theatre, the watch a movie at the cinema or have a bit to eat. This is why I love The Barbican Centre, there’s so much choice
- Visit the hidden gem that is Guildhall and the roman Amphitheatre in the basement – 10 minute walk
- Throw some darts at Flight Club Shoreditch – 11 minute walk
- Go inside the incredibly beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral – 14 minute walk
- Have some delicious food with an incredible panoramic view of East London at Duck & Waffle – 16 minute walk
- Wander around and browse the stalls at Spitalfields Market or eat at the food market (in my opinion one of the best in London) – 21 minute walk
Barbican Conservatory review and photos
I could happily spend a day in The Barbican Centre.
This performing arts centre is one the largest in Europe; you won’t be short of things to do here.
The Barbican’s art programme is one of the best in London. I love the Curve for example, which challenges artists like the United Visual Artists to create an exhibition that fills the space of a curve. And I thought their Pop Art Design exhibition in the main hall presented the perfect introduction to the era.
There’s also the theatre and cinema too. The theatre hall is a lot more comfortable than the old, cramped West End theatres. I enjoyed a modern adaptation of Macbeth with Christopher Eccleston.
Not long ago I discovered a new reason to love visiting the Barbican.
Hard to believe London’s second largest conservatory (after Kew Gardens), is in The City. That gives you an idea how large the Barbican actually is.
Visiting Barbican Conservatory is prefect for rainy days in London. See the latest opening times.
How did they get the plants and trees into the conservatory? Via a crane on the road.
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Towards the back of the Barbican centre is a lovely place to sit outside too (when the sky isn’t grey).
It’s also worth walking around the estate too.
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History of Barbican Conservatory
The Barbican Conservatory is one of London’s most surprising green spaces, tucked inside the Barbican Centre’s Brutalist architecture. It was built in the early 1980s to soften the appearance of the theatre’s fly tower, which was considered an eyesore by nearby residents. Designed by architects Chamberlin, Powell and Bon, the conservatory opened in 1984 and quickly became a hidden oasis in the heart of the city.
Covering 23,000 square feet, it is the second largest conservatory in London after Kew’s Princess of Wales Conservatory. The space was originally intended as a public attraction, but limited opening hours gave it a sense of mystery and exclusivity. Today, it houses over 2,000 species of plants, including tropical palms, ferns, and arid desert plants. With koi carp ponds, terrapins, and towering greenery, the conservatory offers a peaceful escape from the city and a rare blend of nature and architecture.
10 Interesting Facts About Barbican Conservatory
- The conservatory was built to hide the Barbican Theatre’s concrete fly tower.
- It contains over 2,000 plant species from tropical and arid climates.
- The structure spans 23,000 square feet and sits atop the theatre.
- Terrapins in the pond were rescued from Hampstead Heath.
- The conservatory includes three fish ponds with koi, rudd, and tench.
- It features a separate Arid House filled with cacti and succulents.
- Afternoon tea is served among the plants on selected Sundays.
- The soil was hand-mixed to suit the needs of different plant types.
- The conservatory was once closed most days, adding to its hidden-gem status.
- It’s part of the Grade II-listed Barbican Centre, a Brutalist landmark.
Things to See and Do at Barbican Conservatory
- Explore the Tropical House
Wander through towering palms, banana plants, and lush ferns. The space is filled with natural light and offers a rainforest-like atmosphere in the middle of London. - Visit the Arid House
Climb the stairs to a separate area filled with cacti and succulents. Some plants are so large they press against the glass roof, creating dramatic shapes and shadows. - Watch the Koi and Terrapins
Peer into the ponds to see colourful koi carp and rescued terrapins. These water features add movement and life to the conservatory’s calm setting. - Enjoy Afternoon Tea
On selected Sundays, book a table for high tea among the greenery. Cakes, scones, and sandwiches are served with prosecco in a tropical setting. - Join a Guided Tour
Learn about the conservatory’s history and plant life from expert guides. Tours offer insights into horticulture and the building’s design. - Attend Special Events
Look out for concerts, art installations, and evening openings. The conservatory is sometimes lit with colourful lights for private and public events. - Relax in the Sculpture Court
Just outside the conservatory, this quiet terrace offers seating and views of the Barbican’s architecture. It’s a good spot to rest before or after your visit. - Browse the Barbican Shop
Pick up plant-themed gifts, books, and stationery inspired by the conservatory’s design and flora. - Combine with a Barbican Performance
Pair your visit with a theatre show, concert, or exhibition at the Barbican Centre. The conservatory is just one part of this cultural hub. - Take Photos of the Brutalist Contrast
Capture the striking mix of concrete and greenery. The conservatory’s design makes it a favourite for photographers and architecture fans.
Practical Information for Visiting Barbican Conservatory
- Location: Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS
- Opening times: Selected Sundays and occasional weekdays; check Barbican’s website for current dates
- Entry: Free, but advance booking required
- Parking: Paid parking available nearby; public transport recommended
- Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access due to steps in some areas
- Dogs: Assistance dogs only
- Food: Afternoon tea available on select dates; Barbican cafés nearby
- Toilets: Accessible toilets available in the Barbican Centre
- Nearby: Museum of London, St Giles Cripplegate, Guildhall Art Gallery
Barbican Conservatory FAQs
1. What is the Barbican Conservatory?
The Barbican Conservatory is a botanical oasis situated within the Barbican Centre in London. It features a diverse collection of plant species housed under a striking glass roof, providing a unique blend of nature and architecture.
2. When was the Barbican Conservatory built?
The Barbican Conservatory was added to the Barbican Centre and officially opened in 1984 as part of the larger architectural project initiated in the 1960s.
3. How large is the Barbican Conservatory?
The Conservatory spans over 23,000 square feet, making it one of the largest conservatories in London.
4. What types of plants can be found in the Barbican Conservatory?
The Conservatory boasts a diverse collection of plant life, including tropical palms, ferns, arid desert plants, succulents, cacti, and various flowering plants. The intentional variety creates microclimates representing different ecosystems.
5. Can I visit the Barbican Conservatory?
Yes, the Barbican Conservatory is open to the public. However, it’s advisable to check the Barbican Centre’s official website for any updates on opening hours and potential closures for private events.
6. Are there guided tours available?
Yes, the Barbican Conservatory offers guided tours. These tours provide insights into the diverse plant life, the history of the Conservatory, and its role within the Barbican Centre. It’s recommended to check the Barbican Centre’s website for tour schedules.
7. Is there an admission fee to enter the Barbican Conservatory?
Entrance to the Barbican Conservatory is free. However, it’s essential to note that the Conservatory may be closed during private events, so checking the official website for the latest information is advisable.
8. Can I host events or weddings at the Barbican Conservatory?
Yes, the Barbican Conservatory is a versatile venue and can be hired for private events, weddings, and other functions. Interested parties can contact the Barbican Events team for more information and availability.
9. Is photography allowed inside the Barbican Conservatory?
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, it’s recommended to be mindful of other visitors, especially during tours or events. For commercial or professional photography, it’s advisable to contact the Barbican Centre for permission.
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