Royal Festival Hall at Southbank Centre, London
A historic riverside concert hall and cultural beacon on London’s South Bank, blending iconic architecture with world-class performances.
The Royal Festival Hall is a Grade I listed concert and performance venue located on London’s South Bank within the Southbank Centre complex. Opened in 1951 as part of the Festival of Britain, it seats 2,700 people and hosts a diverse program including classical concerts, talks, dance, and live music. Renowned for its modernist architecture and superb acoustics, it also offers bars, restaurants, and public spaces that welcome visitors daily.
A brief summary to Royal Festival Hall
- Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London, SE1 8XX, GB
- +442038799555
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-11 pm
- Thursday 10 am-11 pm
- Friday 10 am-11 pm
- Saturday 10 am-11 pm
- Sunday 10 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit the open foyers and public spaces for free exhibitions and lunchtime concerts even if not attending a show.
- Book tickets in advance for popular classical concerts and festivals to secure the best seats.
- Enjoy a meal or drink at the Skylon restaurant or Festival Bar to soak in the riverside atmosphere.
- Explore the nearby Southbank Centre venues and public art installations for a full cultural day out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Waterloo station, approximately a 10-minute walk from the Royal Festival Hall. Waterloo is served by the Northern, Jubilee, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines, offering frequent service throughout the day. Walking routes are accessible and well-signposted.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop within 500 meters of the venue on Belvedere Road and nearby streets, including routes 77 and 381. Buses run frequently during the day with fares starting at £1.75 using contactless payment. Check schedules for evening services.
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Train
Waterloo mainline railway station is the closest train station, about a 10-minute walk. It offers national and regional rail services, making it convenient for visitors arriving from outside London. Walking paths are step-free and accessible.
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Walking
If you are already in central London, walking along the South Bank riverside promenade is a scenic and accessible option. The terrain is flat and paved, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, and takes approximately 20-30 minutes from landmarks like the London Eye.
Royal Festival Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Royal Festival Hall
A Landmark of Post-War British Architecture and Culture
The Royal Festival Hall was constructed as the centerpiece of the 1951 Festival of Britain, symbolizing post-war renewal and modernity. Designed by Robert Matthew and Leslie Martin in a sleek modernist style, it was the first post-war building in the UK to be granted Grade I listed status in 1981. The hall was built on the site of the former Lion Brewery and officially opened by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth on May 3, 1951. Its design emphasized openness and light, with spacious foyers and an ‘open foyer’ policy introduced in 1983 that allows free public access daily.Architectural and Acoustic Innovations
The hall’s interior features a 2,700-seat auditorium with a stage designed to accommodate a wide range of performances, from orchestral concerts to dance and talks. A major refurbishment completed in 2007 enhanced its acoustics and audience comfort, including the installation of adjustable acoustic canopies and restoration of original seating designed by Robin Day. The stage was reconfigured to provide more space for performers, and the walls around the stage were altered to improve sound quality. The building’s modernist aesthetic is complemented by functional design elements that balance form and performance needs.A Hub for Music and the Arts
The Royal Festival Hall is home to several resident orchestras, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Philharmonia Orchestra, and hosts a varied program that spans classical music, contemporary performances, talks, and festivals. It is part of the larger Southbank Centre complex, which includes the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, Hayward Gallery, and the National Poetry Library. The venue attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, offering a rich cultural experience on the banks of the Thames.Vibrant Public Spaces and Amenities
Beyond performances, the Royal Festival Hall offers numerous amenities such as bars, restaurants including the renowned Skylon, cafes, and shops selling books and gifts. The Clore Ballroom provides a versatile space for receptions and dinners. The building’s foyers and open spaces are popular for socializing, meetings, and enjoying exhibitions or free lunchtime concerts. Public art installations and sculptures, including a prominent bronze bust of Nelson Mandela, add to the cultural atmosphere.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Belvedere Road along the South Bank, the Royal Festival Hall enjoys stunning riverside views and proximity to iconic London landmarks like the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. Nearby attractions include the London Dungeon, Sea Life Centre, and the National Theatre. The area is lively and pedestrian-friendly, with a festive atmosphere enhanced by street art, markets, and seasonal events.Continuing Legacy and Community Engagement
The Royal Festival Hall continues to evolve as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting over 5,000 events annually across genres and demographics. It supports community engagement through free exhibitions, public art, and educational programs. Its open-door policy invites visitors to experience world-class performances and cultural activities in a welcoming and accessible environment, making it a cornerstone of London’s artistic life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterloo Bridge
0.3 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.4 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
County Hall
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.4 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.4 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.5 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.5 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.6 km
Explore the Battle of Britain Monument in London, a powerful tribute to the heroism of RAF pilots during World War II, rich in history and artistic elegance.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.6 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Chindit Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
South Bank Lion
0.6 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.6 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Roupell St
0.6 km
Explore Roupell Street, a picturesque Victorian lane in London offering charm, history, and perfect photo opportunities.
Temple Station
0.6 km
Explore the historic Temple Station in London, where Gothic revival architecture meets the vibrant pulse of the city.
Charing Cross
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant Charing Cross station in London, a historic transport hub surrounded by iconic attractions and rich culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.0 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering global flavors behind the Royal Festival Hall.
Southbank Centre
0.0 km
A vibrant riverside cultural complex in London offering world-class music, art, and festive experiences year-round.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.1 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
BFI Southbank
0.2 km
Discover the heart of film culture at BFI Southbank, London’s iconic venue for classic and contemporary cinema experiences.
Southbank Book Market
0.2 km
Discover literary treasures and timeless charm beneath Waterloo Bridge at London’s iconic Southbank Book Market.
National Theatre
0.2 km
A Brutalist masterpiece on the South Bank, home to world-class theatre and dramatic river views.
Jubilee Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
BFI IMAX
0.2 km
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridges
0.2 km
Iconic Thames crossing blending Victorian railway heritage with sleek cable-stayed footbridges and stunning panoramic London views.
The Queen’s Walk
0.3 km
A scenic riverside promenade along the Thames connecting London’s iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural hubs.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.3 km
Experience London's vibrant riverside culture, festive markets, and stunning Thames views along the lively Southbank Boardwalk.
lastminute.com London Eye
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the towering lastminute.com London Eye on the South Bank.
London Eye Ticket Office
0.4 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
The London Dungeon
0.4 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.4 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
Essential places to dine
Strada Southbank
0.1 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.1 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.1 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
The Archduke
0.1 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.1 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Troia Southbank
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
OKAN South Bank
0.4 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.5 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
The Northall
0.5 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.5 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.5 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.7 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.7 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.1 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.2 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.3 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Gifts of London
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Sugar And Style
0.5 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
0.6 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Browns of London
0.6 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.6 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.7 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
The Store X
0.7 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Crest of London Ltd
0.7 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.8 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.8 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Covent Garden
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment experience at Covent Garden, a historical landmark in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.0 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.0 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Understudy
0.3 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.3 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Le Champagne Bar
0.3 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.3 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.3 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.4 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Primo Bar, London
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
American Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Beaufort Bar
0.6 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.7 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.7 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
The Spy Bar
0.7 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.4 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Proud Late
0.5 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Heaven
0.6 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
0.9 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.0 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.0 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Carwash Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
The Penthouse London
1.1 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Ivy Club
1.1 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
1.2 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Café de Paris
1.2 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly