From bomb site to Brutalist landmark
The area around Cripplegate was almost completely destroyed in the Blitz. In the decades that followed, the architects Chamberlin, Powell and Bon designed the Barbican Estate as a self-contained city within the City, with three residential towers, terraced blocks, lakes and raised walkways. Building ran from the 1960s into the 1970s, and the Barbican Centre opened in 1982.
The estate was built around older survivors. St Giles Cripplegate, where John Milton is buried, stands beside the lake, and sections of the Roman and medieval London Wall can still be seen along the walkways.
What to see
- Barbican Centre – concerts by the London Symphony Orchestra, theatre, cinema and art galleries.
- Barbican Conservatory – a large tropical glasshouse wrapped around the fly tower, open on selected days.
- St Giles Cripplegate – one of the few medieval churches left in the City.
- London Wall remains – Roman and medieval stonework beside the highwalks.
Eating and atmosphere
The estate is calm and quiet, especially at weekends, but busy before concerts. There are cafés and restaurants inside the Barbican Centre, and many more in nearby Smithfield, Clerkenwell and Whitecross Street, where a weekday street food market serves the local offices.
A suggested half day
Start at Barbican station and walk the highwalks to the lakeside terrace. Visit St Giles, then the Conservatory if it is open, and finish with an exhibition or an early-evening concert. Smithfield and Clerkenwell are a short walk away for dinner.
Getting there
Barbican station is on the Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines, and Moorgate and Farringdon both have Elizabeth line services, making Heathrow a direct journey. Liverpool Street is a short walk away.
Getting there with Mason & Green
The estate is famously hard to navigate. For the Barbican Centre, the Silk Street entrance is the usual vehicle drop-off and pickup point. For residents, give the block name and the nearest street entrance. London City Airport and Heathrow are both straightforward from here.
See our London City Airport transfers and chauffeur service pages.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I be dropped off for the Barbican Centre?
Silk Street is the main entrance for vehicles and the easiest place to meet a driver.
Is the Barbican Conservatory always open?
No. It opens on selected days, so check the Barbican's website before you visit.
Can you see the Roman wall at the Barbican?
Yes. Sections of the Roman and medieval wall can be seen from the highwalks and around St Alphage Garden.