Visiting the Barbican Conservatory with children: everything you need to know

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The last thing you would expect in the middle of a Brutalist housing complex in the City of London is London’s second largest conservatory. But, in the middle of the Barbican estate, that’s exactly what you’ve got with the Barbican Conservatory. Whether you are looking for a bit of respite from the city, a free alternative to Kew Gardens or simply to discover something cool, find out everything you need to know about visiting the Barbican Conservatory with children in this guide.

The Barbican Conservatory: the essentials

What is the Barbican Conservatory?

The Barbican Conservatory is located within the Barbican Centre (which also houses two art galleries, two theatres, three cinemas and a concert hall) and is the second largest conservatory in London (after Kew Gardens).

The wider Barbican estate, which includes a housing complex, was built between 1965 and 1976, on a 35-acre site that had been destroyed during World War II. The Conservatory was constructed slightly later. It was planted between 1980 and 1981, and it opened in 1984.

At the centre of the Conservatory is the fly tower for the Barbican Theatre (from which scenery for productions taking place on the stage six stories below is lowered into place). Now draped in hanging plants, the Brutalist tower gives the impression of having been reclaimed by nature.

The Conservatory now houses around 1,500 species of plants and trees ranging from diverse areas of the planet.

Where is the Barbican Conservatory?

The Barbican Conservatory is located on the third and fourth floors of the Barbican Centre, in the City of London.

How much does it cost to go in the Barbican Conservatory?

Entrance to the Barbican Conservatory is free.

Do you need tickets for the Barbican Conservatory?

Although tickets did not used to be required, post-pandemic, it is now necessary to book free tickets in advance.

Tickets can be booked at the following site.

When is the Barbican Conservatory open?

The Barbican Conservatory is open:

Friday 6.30pm – 9.30pm
Saturday 12.00pm – 7.00pm
Sunday 12.00pm – 7.00pm

Do note that sometimes the Barbican Conservatory hosts private events or may be closed for other reasons. Check online for the most up to date information.

Getting to the Barbican Conservatory

What is the nearest tube to the Barbican Conservatory?

The nearest Tube station to the Barbican Conservatory is Barbican station (Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Circle lines).

Also nearby are Moorgate (Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Circle, Northern lines and the Elizabeth Line), Farringdon (Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Circle and the Elizabeth Line) and St Paul’s (Central line).

Several bus routes also stop nearby.

How do you get into the Barbican Conservatory?

The Barbican complex can indeed be complex.

Probably the easiest way to access the Barbican Centre is via Silk Street. This takes you directly into the Barbican Centre. If you are accessing the Barbican from somewhere else, follow signs to the ‘Barbican Centre’. 

Once inside, the Barbican Conservatory is accessed via Level 4, if you’re coming from inside the main Barbican building. Look for the lifts and take those up.

Do I have to queue for the Barbican Conservatory?

Unless you arrive before your timeslot, or at a time when many other people have also arrived, there is no need to queue for entrance to the Barbican Conservatory.

At the Barbican Conservatory

What is there to see at the Barbican Conservatory?

Kids will love exploring the Barbican Conservatory. It’s small enough that they can’t go too far but the pathways and planted areas offer enough opportunity to feel like you’re discovering something as you round each corner.

Within the Conservatory are a number of pools, including some within which you can spot fish. The koi will probably be those that you spot first due to their size and colour, but look closely and you’ll likely spot other smaller, less brightly coloured fish too!

What facilities are there for children at the Barbican Conservatory?

As you enter the Barbican Conservatory on level 4 there is the ‘lakeside terrace’ which is a terrace (albeit not lakeside). It’s an area with sofas and chairs where you can take a break. Prams and pushchairs can also be left in this area.

Within the Barbican Centre itself are a number of facilities, including a cafe.

How long can you spend at the Barbican Conservatory?

There’s no limit on how long you can spend there. Anticipate spending up to around 45 minutes exploring the Barbican Conservatory.

Can you eat in the Barbican Conservatory?

Within the Barbican Conservatory is a small bar that sells a variety of drinks and snacks, including hot drinks and sweets and cake bars.

TOP TIPS for visiting the Barbican Conservatory

• The Barbican will be undergoing a renewal project ahead of its 50th anniversary and work on the Conservatory is likely to begin in 2027. This will require the closure of the conservatory for a period, so go now!

Is there a question you have about visiting the Barbican Conservatory with children that we haven’t answered here? Let us know in the comments and we’ll do our best to address it.