London’s Secret Garden at The Barbican

The Barbican Centre wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. It surprised me for a number of reasons. Firstly, in my 13 years of living in London, I couldn’t believe I’d never been before. I would have remembered. Its Brutalist architecture is hard to forgot – something else which surprised me. For a centre at the hub of the creative arts, it’s quite a contrast. There was another surprise to come. The Barbican also has a garden conservatory. It was in this leafy oasis which we found ourselves, one hot Sunday afternoon.

The arts and learning centre in the City of London is part of a complex of high-rise flats designed by architects Chamberlin, Powell & Bon. Its controversial Brutalist design is harsh but distinct. One of the best examples in London of the post-war architectural movement which spread across Europe, America and the Soviet Union.

Although Brutalism started as a low-cost solution for cash-strapped governments, it was also used for higher budgets too. The area where the Barbican now stands was badly bombed during WWII and the redevelopment took three decades to come to fruition. It was opened by the Queen in 1982.

The building has divided opinion. Some label it an eyesore and it is often voted London’s ugliest building. Others champion its style. Its architectural importance has made it a Grade II listed building. Love it or loathe it, it is here to stay.

The Barbican Centre itself has a number of entrances. We entered at the one near St Giles-without-Cripplegate Church. One of the few medieval churches left in the City of London and a survivor of the Great Fire of London in 1666.

There’s a lift which takes you onto the footbridge of the Barbican housing estate which surrounds the arts centre. In the middle of the tall, concrete housing blocks lies a large waterway with plant life and pathways.

As it was a hot, sunny day we got some food at one of the Barbican’s restaurants and sat outside. In the spacious area, we gazed at the architecture, prevented the kids from going too near the water edge and ate ice creams.

The mark of the Barbican’s 1970s design is hard to escape on the inside too. Upon entering, it is as if you’ve stepped back in time.

There’s so much to do and see at the Barbican from dance, theatre and art exhibitions. On this particular day, our destination was the garden conservatory on the third floor. I was with my two girls (5 and 1) and we met some friends who were with their new baby and three-year-old boy.

I had no idea this space existed – so thanks to my friend for her insider knowledge. We timed it well, the gardens are only open on selected Sundays. They are also free! Now, I really have your attention, don’t I!

What I love about these gardens is the contrast of man-made concrete against the delicate plants. Nature and manufactured material combining together in the second largest conservatory in London which has over 2,000 tropical plants.

There’s plenty of cool photo opportunities.

And a little pond with some carp – which the little ones loved.

Check out this room full of cacti.

The plants creep across the concrete, creating a beautiful contrast.

To learn more about the gardens, you can get a tour which starts at 11am on the days they are open.

There’s also the option to enjoy Sunday afternoon tea in this unique environment.

There’s plenty to do at The Barbican but the garden conservatory was a delight to visit. Its low key location means it isn’t too busy either. This is indeed one of London’s best kept secrets.

Getting there

The Barbican is located off Silk Street in the City of London. The nearest tube station is (unsurprisingly) Barbican. St Pauls and Moorgate are also a short walk away. The no 153 bus goes past the Barbican.

Check the website for the conservatory’s opening days, tour times and to book afternoon tea.

Have you been to the Barbican before? What’s your opinion on its architecture?

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