Any questions? Here's our handy FAQs.
What should I wear?
Wear whatever you feel comfortable in! The orchestra doesn't wear black tie or tails, so why should you have to? Come dressed as smart or casual as you'd like.
Help! When should I clap?
It's common that the audience won't clap until a piece of music has completely finished (e.g. after all four movements of a symphony, or after all three movements of a concerto) to keep a sense of tension throughout the performance.
However sometimes audience members are so impressed that they will clap spontaneously at a great performance, and who can blame them? If you're very unsure, hold off until everyone else starts to clap.
Can I use my phone?
We ask you to turn off your phone during the concert, or at least have it switched to silent (without vibrate). We’re usually broadcasting on ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Radio 3 (often live) so it’s important that our musicians and producers aren't interrupted.
Photography and recording of the performance isn't allowed, but feel free to take pictures before the concert, during the applause or after the concert, and remember to tag us on Instagram!
How do I find out more about the music?
Free physical programmes are available on each door at the Barbican for most of our concerts, and digital programmes are available on our website, in the pre-show email you'll receive from the Barbican and via the QR code in the Barbican foyer, providing introductions to all the music played and biographies of composers.
You can also visit our social media accounts where we frequently share information about the pieces being performed.
I've got some more questions about the Barbican. Can you help?
Absolutely! Head to on the Barbican's website.
Barbican Hall FAQs
Where is it?
Location
The Barbican Hall is located within the main Barbican building. Head to Level G and follow the signs to find your seating level.
Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS
How can I get there?
Public transport
​​​​​​​The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information or, if you want to drive, book your space in advance.
Is there anywhere to eat and drink?
There are plenty of places at the Barbican for you to relax and replenish, from coffee and cake to wood-fired pizzas and full pre-concert menus.
What about accessibility?
Mobility
Spaces for wheelchair users in row U at the rear of the stalls (up to sixteen, depth of row 180cm) and the back row of the circle (four), both with fold-down companion seats. Some seats in row S of the stalls for people with very limited mobility.
Assistance dogs
Assistance dogs may be taken into the concert hall where there are a limited number of suitable seats in row G of the stalls. If you prefer, you may leave your dog with a member of the cloakroom staff during the performance.
Hearing facility
There is an induction loop in the concert hall. You can use this by adjusting your hearing aid to the ‘T’ setting.
Free large-print programmes
These are available for most of our concerts. Please contact access@barbican.org.uk at least a week beforehand, to prebook a large-print programme.
For more access information, please visit the Barbican's section.
