Royal Festival Hall at Southbank
The Royal Festival Hall is more than just a great performing arts venue, it is also a popular place to just hang out and enjoy the view and other amenities that are on site
The Royal Festival Hall was opened in 1951 at Southbank Centre in conjunction with the Festival of Britain. The Royal Festival Hall is both a popular gathering place a leading entertainment venue with modernist architectural styling consisting of a 2900 seat auditorium, the Clore Ballroom, Southbank Centre Shop, several restaurants and the Siason Poetry Library.
Entrance to Southbank Centre and all the buildings is free, so you can explore the venue and its many amenities without charge. There is usually a lot of stuff happening here, both inside and out, as this is a popular gathering spot and home to some popular festivals too. Of course there is a charge to attend certain events inside the venues which include concerts, dances and talks. The centre is open daily from 10am until 11pm. The hall is the regular home to the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Royal Festival Hall was reopened in 2007 after being closed for extensive renovations which took 2 years to complete. The hall now benefits from a cutting-edge stage, behind the scenes areas and equipage while retaining several of the original features. It is now licensed for weddings and also hosts conferences and graduation ceremonies.
For more information about the Royal Festival Hall as well as shows and schedules visit their official website link below.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: No except for concerts and events.Royal Festival Hall Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Address: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 8XX, UK
Phone: 020 3879 9555
Official Website: Royal Festival Hall
Royal Festival Hall Reviews
Rated out of 5
Really nice venue. We went to listen to a Rachmaninoff concert which was fantastic, the pianist was amazing and the choir were very good. We sat in the stalls block D, in my opinion really good seats central view and sound really good.
A little bonus at the interval, an outdoor balcony overlooking the embankment beautiful sunset views.
Would definitely visit again, great value for the tickets.
Dimitri - 4 weeks ago
The Royal Festival Hall proved to be a magnificent setting for my graduation ceremony, lending a real sense of occasion to the day. The grandeur of the building and its iconic status elevated the entire experience, making it truly memorable. The hall was buzzing with excitement and the acoustics were superb, ensuring every word of the ceremony was crystal clear. I was particularly struck by the stunning architecture and interior design, a beautiful blend of modern and classic styles that created a sense of awe and wonder. Its location on the South Bank, with fantastic views of the Thames, was also a major plus. If I had to pick out any areas for improvement, it would be the slightly crowded feel during the entrance and exit, which is understandable given the large number of graduates and guests. The seating, while offering a good view, could also have been a tad more comfortable for the duration of the ceremony. But these are minor quibbles. Overall, the Royal Festival Hall is a fantastic venue for a graduation, and I'm so glad I had the chance to celebrate this important milestone there.
Stuart Jeffery - a week ago
The place looks surgical but it is magical. It could do with better signage but there is always people around who can help you find your way around. Went to see Richard Ayoade's book presentation. A very funny evening. Also the food at the Food Hall is not bad and it isn't crazy expensive for the place and location. Looking forward to attend more events!
The event in particular was very well organized with good subtitles, Deaf-signing, etc.
Val Scagliarino-Baker - a month ago
Had been at Royal Festival Hall to attend my daughter's Convocation
.
The magnificence and the ambience were captivating. All the staffs were so attentive and caring that it made us feel so welcome & comfortable.
Amaresh Raman - a month ago
Attended a fantastic John Williams tribute concert at the Royal Festival Hall, where the orchestra performed iconic scores from Star Wars and other beloved films. The venue’s acoustics and atmosphere made the experience truly unforgettable. Highly recommend for anyone who loves film music or classical performances!
Sergie Code - in the last week
Directions
| Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Northern, Bakerloo and Jubilee Lines | Waterloo Station | 5 Minutes |
| Circle and District Lines | Embankment Station | 5 Minutes |
How to get to Royal Festival Hall by Tube
The Royal Festival hall is just northwest of the main exit from Waterloo Station. Exit onto Waterloo Road and go to you left (north). Stay left at the BFI Imax Theatre and bear left again onto Concert Hall Approach.
From Embankment Station on the Northbank simply walk across the Hungerford bridge. The hall is on the far side of the bridge to your right.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Royal Festival Hall:
Photo Gallery
-
Concert inside the Royal Festival Hall cc licensed photo by Ezhar/Ingmar
Video
Please provide consent and/or disable ad blocker to view the video.
