London truly is filled with an abundance of things to do, with people flocking from all over the world to experience the capital city’s unique magic. One famous attraction is the Barbican, located in the heart of the City of London.
The Barbican is a renowned cultural hub that offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. As one of the largest performing arts centres in Europe, the Barbican is home to a variety of artistic and cultural activities, including theatre, music, dance, film, and visual arts. Its iconic Brutalist architecture stands as a testament to its innovative spirit and rich history.
When you visit the Barbican, you can expect a dynamic blend of world-class performances and cutting-edge exhibitions. The centre's art gallery hosts an ever-changing array of contemporary art shows, while its concert hall is famed for exceptional acoustics and an impressive roster of performances by leading orchestras and soloists. Not too far away, you’ll find one of the best things to do near the Barbican: sample a delicious menu and a perfect pint of Guinness at Daffodil Mulligan.
Plenty of things to do in Barbican
The Barbican is a brutalist masterpiece in London, bringing flocks of people to its doors each year. Below you’ll find a list of all the great things to do in the Barbican.
Barbican Art Gallery
The Barbican Art Gallery is a must visit for those who love contemporary art. It hosts a diverse array of exhibitions that showcase works from both established and emerging artists. From thought-provoking installations to retrospectives of influential figures in the art world, the gallery offers a constantly evolving experience that challenges and inspires its visitors.
Barbican Theatre
The Barbican Theatre is renowned for its innovative productions and diverse programming. Whether you're a fan of classic plays, contemporary drama, or experimental performances, the theatre's lineup is sure to captivate. With collaborations from leading theatre companies and artists from around the globe, each visit promises a unique and memorable experience.
Barbican Concert Hall
The Barbican Concert Hall is one of London's premier venues for classical music, boasting exceptional acoustics and an impressive roster of performances. Home to the London Symphony Orchestra, the concert hall hosts an array of concerts featuring world-renowned conductors and soloists. Whether it's a symphony, a chamber music recital, or a choral performance, the Barbican Concert Hall delivers a sublime auditory experience.
Barbican Cinema
The Barbican Cinema offers a diverse selection of films, from mainstream releases to independent and foreign films. It’s the perfect spot for movie enthusiasts looking to explore different genres and cultures. The cinema also hosts special screenings, film festivals, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, providing a comprehensive cinematic experience.
Barbican Conservatory
Hidden within the Barbican complex is the Conservatory, a lush tropical oasis that provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Home to over 2,000 species of plants and trees, as well as exotic fish, the Conservatory offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and reflection. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and those looking to unwind amidst greenery.
Barbican Library
The Barbican Library is a public library that offers a wide range of resources, including books, periodicals, and multimedia. It’s a welcoming space for readers, researchers, and students. The library also hosts regular events, such as author talks, workshops, and reading groups, making it a vibrant community hub.
Barbican Centre Tours
For those interested in architecture and history, the Barbican Centre offers guided tours that delve into the design and development of this iconic Brutalist landmark. These tours provide fascinating insights into the vision behind the Barbican, its construction, and its role in London’s cultural landscape.
Food is sorted
After immersing yourself in the rich cultural and artistic delights of the Barbican, you’ll have worked up a hunger. Luckily, just a mere 12 minute walk away, you’ll find yourself face to face with the delightful Daffodil Mulligan. This charming Irish restaurant is rich in charm and infused with a vibrant Irish flair. Part of the esteemed Corrigan Collection, Daffodil Mulligan is under the expert guidance of Head Chef Stu Hesketh and Chef Patron Richard Corrigan, who have curated a menu of some exceptional little delicacies perfect for sharing, and hearty big plates you won’t want anyone else to even think about asking to share.
Daffodil Mulligan's menu is influenced by a harmonious blend of Irish and international flavours, reflecting the chefs' dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from over the Irish Sea. The inventive dishes, inspired by traditional Irish cuisine and modern culinary trends, showcase the best of both worlds, creating a unique and mouthwatering journey. Start your meal with shareable delights such as the Scorched Mackerel. Crafted with delicious blood orange acidity and smoked vinegar, this dish is a zesty start. Pair the mackerel with tasty Jersey Rock Oysters, available perfectly natural or dressed in a unique rhubarb, lime, soy and coriander dressing.
Daffy’s famous In-House Ember Baked Bread with aioli is another perfect starter, ideal for dipping in any remaining sauces. Especially those delicious smoked butter and wild garlic juices from the Pot of Cornish Mussels. For some crunch, the Salt ‘n’ Chilli chicken offers delicious tender chicken, wrapped in the most perfect crispy, flavourful shell.
Once you’ve sampled some of the sharers, have something all to yourself. The menu features many standout dishes like the Forerib Of Beef & Bone Marrow Cheeseburger. Served with a beef fat brioche bun and crispy chips, this one is a delightful mess. Alternatively, the succulent Confit Duck Leg with San Marzano tomato panzanella is divine and tender, providing a rich and delicious dish. Other highlights include the Sugar Pit Pork, accompanied by cabbage, caraway, and smoked apple, this dish’s perfect partner is a perfectly poured pint of Guinness.
Defined by the warm Irish hospitality and culinary excellence of the Corrigan Collection, Daffodil Mulligan is most certainly one of the best things to do near the Barbican. The ideal spot to enjoy the Barbican’s art gallery and theatre, then retire with all your pals for some fantastic dishes, a couple of glasses of something good, and lots of killer craic. Once you’re fed to the brim, head downstairs to the quirky Gibney’s. Gibney’s is a trendy little sports bar that regularly hosts live sports events, live music nights and beyond. It’s also the best spot in London to enjoy a bit of traditional Dublin, and the best pint of Guinness in London.