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Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, London

Explore Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, a raw industrial space on London’s South Bank, hosting cutting-edge art exhibitions and immersive creative events.

4.5

Bargehouse, part of the iconic Oxo Tower Wharf on London's South Bank, is a vast and raw industrial space renowned for its edgy art exhibitions and creative events. Housed in a historic riverside building originally linked to London's power and shipping heritage, it offers a unique atmosphere for immersive art, design showcases, and cultural happenings amid panoramic Thames views.

A brief summary to Bargehouse

  • Oxo Tower Wharf, Barge House St, London, SE1 9PH, GB
  • +442070211600
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 11 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during special exhibitions or the London Design Festival for unique immersive art experiences.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the South Bank to nearby cultural landmarks like Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe.
  • Check event schedules in advance as Bargehouse hosts diverse pop-up exhibitions and creative events.
  • Explore the Oxo Tower Wharf shops and galleries for designer crafts and enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop restaurant.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to London Bridge station (Jubilee and Northern lines), then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk along the South Bank to Oxo Tower Wharf. Alternatively, Tower Hill station (Circle and District lines) is about a 15-20 minute walk. Bus routes 381 and RV1 also stop nearby. Typical travel times from central London are 15-30 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard London transport applies.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly at Oxo Tower Wharf. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Note that central London congestion charges and limited on-site parking apply, so this option is best for convenience rather than cost.

  • Walking

    For those staying nearby, a scenic walk along the Thames Path from landmarks such as Tate Modern or Shakespeare’s Globe takes approximately 10-20 minutes. The route is flat and accessible, offering pleasant riverside views and easy pedestrian access.

Bargehouse location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Bargehouse

Historic Roots and Architectural Character

Bargehouse is a striking component of the Oxo Tower Wharf complex, located on Barge House Street in London’s vibrant South Bank district. The building’s origins trace back to around 1900 when it was part of Stamford Wharf and served as a power station supplying electricity to the Royal Mail Post Office. Later, it became a cold store for the Liebig Extract of Meat Company, famous for their Oxo beef stock cubes. The Oxo Tower’s distinctive tower, with its cleverly designed windows resembling the OXO logo, was constructed during a 1928-29 Art Deco redesign by architect Albert Moore. Bargehouse itself retains a raw, industrial aesthetic, characterized by exposed brickwork, large open floors, and a sense of unfinished authenticity that appeals to contemporary creatives.

A Hub for Contemporary Art and Events

Today, Bargehouse is celebrated as a flexible venue for exhibitions, immersive experiences, and large-scale creative events. Its five floors offer diverse spaces, from intimate rooms to expansive halls, encouraging innovative installations and artistic freedom. The venue has hosted a wide range of activities, including art fairs, fashion shows, product launches, and experimental theatre, making it a magnet for London’s creative community. Despite its edgy, partly decayed appearance, Bargehouse’s unique character provides a compelling backdrop for storytelling and artistic expression that traditional galleries often lack.

Integration with Oxo Tower Wharf and the South Bank

Bargehouse forms part of the larger Oxo Tower Wharf development, an award-winning mixed-use complex that combines residential co-operative flats, design studios, shops, and eateries. The Wharf is a cultural landmark along the Thames, linking to nearby attractions like Tate Modern, the National Theatre, and Shakespeare’s Globe via a scenic riverside walkway. Visitors to Bargehouse can easily explore the creative shops and galleries within Oxo Tower Wharf, including the Oxo Gallery and the rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of London’s skyline.

Community-Led Regeneration and Cultural Significance

The revitalization of Bargehouse and Oxo Tower Wharf was driven by Coin Street Community Builders in the late 20th century, transforming derelict industrial buildings into a vibrant cultural quarter. This regeneration project preserved the historical fabric while fostering a creative economy centered on design and the arts. Bargehouse’s continued use as a flexible arts venue reflects this community ethos, supporting emerging artists and experimental projects. Its proximity to other South Bank cultural institutions enhances its role as a key creative hub within London’s artistic landscape.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to Bargehouse encounter a raw, industrial environment that contrasts with the polished galleries nearby. The building’s unfinished textures, vast rooms, and layered history create an immersive atmosphere that invites exploration and discovery. Exhibitions often transform the space dramatically, from art mazes to immersive installations, encouraging visitors to engage deeply with contemporary art forms. The venue’s location on the Thames adds a scenic dimension, with riverside walks and views enriching the cultural experience.

Future Prospects and Cultural Role

While Bargehouse remains a dynamic venue for temporary exhibitions and events, plans for its permanent commercial development are underway, aiming to balance heritage preservation with modern usage. Its role as a creative space continues to evolve, maintaining its status as a distinctive and influential part of London’s South Bank cultural scene. For art lovers, designers, and cultural explorers, Bargehouse offers a unique glimpse into London’s industrial past and its thriving contemporary creative future.

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