Description
The Barbican Conservatory is a spectacular hidden tropical oasis tucked away inside the sprawling concrete angles of the iconic Barbican Centre. As London’s second-largest greenhouse after Kew Gardens, it offers a stunning contrast where vibrant nature completely reclaims bold architectural structures. It serves as one of the most unique, calm, and educational family activities in London.
Visiting the greenhouse is entirely free, making it a brilliant choice for parents looking to enjoy London on a budget with kids. Families can wander through winding walkways, marvel at exotic plant species, and spot residents like terrapins and fish. Benches are scattered throughout the space, providing parents with peaceful spots to rest while children explore.
If you are looking for an unexpected afternoon out that seamlessly blends brutalist design, botanical education, and serene relaxation, this indoor jungle is an ideal destination. It is fully protected by a glass roof, making it a perfect all-weather escape for a rainy day in the city.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Key Features
- Hidden Indoor Jungle: A massive, multi-level greenhouse sheltering over 1,500 species of tropical plants, towering palms, and exotic blooms.
- The Transformed Fly Tower: A towering concrete structure originally designed for theatre scenery, now beautifully draped in cascading greenery.
- Meandering High Walkways: Elevated paths and terraces that allow kids to experience the tropical canopy from different angles.
- Calming Water Features: Peaceful, built-in pools where children can closely observe vibrant fish and swimming terrapins.
Highlights
- The Koi Carp & Terrapin Pools: A major highlight for younger visitors, these serene pools are home to large, brightly coloured koi carp, cold-water fish, and swimming terrapins. Children will be mesmerised watching the fish swim up close and spotting the turtles resting on the rocks. While feeding the animals is strictly prohibited, it provides a fantastic, free way to introduce children to aquatic life.
- The Theater Fly Tower: Standing right at the heart of the conservatory is the massive concrete fly tower for the Barbican Theatre. Historically used to move stage scenery six storeys below, it has been entirely covered in climbing and hanging flora. The structure gives older kids an immersive lesson in how nature and urban engineering can beautifully coexist.
- Arid Cactus & Succulent House: This unique section showcases a diverse array of desert plants and succulents, demonstrating how different plant species adapt to harsh, dry conditions. It serves as an excellent, hands-on educational resource that sparks curious questions about global ecosystems. Parents should note that this is a strict "no-touching" area to keep small hands safe from spikes.
- Integrated Art Sculptures: The conservatory frequently functions as a natural art space. It features large-scale, site-specific art installations, such as spectacular sculptures by world-renowned artists like Ranjani Shettar, which are woven seamlessly into the organic plant displays.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- Barbican Library: Located within the main complex, featuring an excellent children's section packed with books, family displays, and comfortable reading corners.
- Family Cinema & Workshops: The centre regularly hosts dedicated Parent and Baby film screenings, alongside weekend and holiday craft workshops for kids.
- Lakeside Terrace: A beautiful, open terrace outside the main building where families can sit by the water and admire the dramatic fountains.
0.53 miles
