The Southbank Centre is an arts and culture complex on the South Bank of the River Thames that hosts music, dance and literary performances. The Southbank Centre is home to the Philharmonia Orchestra, the London Sinfonietta, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Each year, the Southbank Centre welcomes over 4 million visitors who come to see the 2,000 performances and 2,000 educational programs and events hosted annually. The Southbank Centre also offers major art exhibitions throughout the year at the Hayward Gallery and touring exhibitions at over 100 locations across the UK.
Southbank Centre in London - one of the highlights of 10 Most Iconic Buildings in London (Read all about London here)
Highlights of the Southbank Centre
As a massive arts complex, the Southbank Centre offers several performance halls, studios, libraries and other facilities. Performances and conferences are hosted in the Hayward Gallery, Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Purcell Room. You’ll also have access to the Archive Studio, National Poetry Library and numerous cafes and restaurants.
The Southbank Centre hosts a range of diverse performances and events each year to suit all audiences. Along with performances from the resident orchestras, Southbank Centre features unique exhibits and performances like ‘Unseen’, a photography exhibit with logic-defying imagery, and the ‘Origin of Carmen Power’, a superhero story with monsters, unicorns and magic.
photo by Elliott Brown (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
Good to know when visiting the Southbank Centre
There’s always something happening at the Southbank Centre. Before your trip, check the calendar of events to see what’s scheduled for your holiday dates. You can book tickets online in advance to attend a show or event, but you’ll find several events that are free and open to the public.
The Southbank Centre also offers incredible shopping that supports the arts. Before your show, visit the Southbank Centre shops to find unique gifts and souvenirs. Some of the best shops include the Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk, the Hayward Gallery Shop and the Foyles Bookshop.
Southbank Centre in London
Location: Belvedere Rd, Bishop's, London SE1 8XX, UK
Phone: +44 (0)2038 799555
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