Barbican Conservatory — Attraction in London

Last Sunday, my fiancé and I decided to treat ourselves to a day of exploration and tranquility by visiting the Barbican Conservatory, a lush sanctuary hidden within the brutalist expanse of the Barbican Centre in London. Our day began with lunch at the Barbican Kitchen, where we chose to sit outside, hoping to enjoy some fresh air and people-watching. Unfortunately, the pigeons had other plans. They were a persistent nuisance, swooping down and eyeing our food with unabashed audacity. Despite their unwelcome company, we managed to enjoy our meal, finding humor in our avian adversaries.

After our eventful lunch, we made our way into the conservatory. The transition from the stark, angular lines of the Barbican’s exterior to the warm, inviting greenery inside was almost magical. The Brutalist architecture of the Barbican Centre, with its raw concrete and functional design, is often polarizing. Some view it as cold and uninviting, but we couldn't help but appreciate its boldness and strength. It’s an architectural style that commands attention and makes a statement. It reminded us of Le Corbusier’s ideas, where form follows function, and there is an honest expression of materials.

Stepping into the conservatory felt like entering another world. The contrast between the urban exterior and the tropical interior was striking. The conservatory is home to over 2,000 species of plants and trees, creating a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. As we wandered through the pathways, we were captivated by the variety of flora. Tall palm trees stretched towards the skylights, and lush ferns created a carpet of green beneath them. The air was thick with humidity and the rich scent of earth, transporting us far from the city’s hustle and bustle.

We found a particularly enchanting spot by the central pond. Here, colorful koi fish swam lazily, and terrapins sunned themselves on rocks. It was a serene and calming scene, inviting us to sit and simply absorb the tranquility. This idyllic setting reminded me of the pastoral landscapes in Virginia Woolf’s "To the Lighthouse," where nature serves as a backdrop for introspection and human connection. It was easy to lose track of time as we sat there, the gentle sound of water adding to the meditative ambiance.

The conservatory’s design is a brilliant blend of the natural and the constructed. High ceilings and expansive glass walls allowed natural light to pour in, bathing the plants in a soft, diffused glow. This interplay of light and shadow added a layer of magic to our experience. The dense foliage and hidden corners evoked a sense of adventure, reminiscent of the exotic locales in Joseph Conrad’s "Heart of Darkness," though here, nature felt welcoming and nurturing.

As we continued our exploration, we found ourselves in smaller, more intimate sections of the conservatory. These areas, filled with delicate orchids and intricate ferns, offered moments of solitude and reflection. The conservatory's ability to soften the harsh lines of the brutalist structure with its lush greenery made us reflect on the coexistence of nature and human-made environments. It was a beautiful metaphor for finding balance in life, and a reminder that even within the most rigid frameworks, there is room for growth and beauty.

For those considering a visit, we recommend arriving early to fully immerse yourself in the serenity before it becomes too crowded. Wear comfortable shoes, as there is plenty to explore, and don’t rush—take your time to appreciate the diversity and intricacy of the plant life. A camera is a must; every corner of the conservatory offers unique photo opportunities, from towering palms to delicate blooms.

The Conservatory is a perfect escape for anyone looking to reconnect with nature within the heart of the city. It’s a testament to the harmonious blend of brutalist architecture and lush greenery, creating a unique and peaceful retreat. Whether you’re an avid gardener, an architecture enthusiast, or simply in need of a serene escape, the Barbican Conservatory offers an...

The Barbican Conservatory, located in the heart of London, England, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique and enchanting experience. This magnificent glasshouse, which is part of the larger Barbican Centre complex, is home to an impressive collection of exotic plants and flowers from various parts of the world. Despite requiring visitors to book a slot for an hour-long visit due to its popularity, entrance to the conservatory is free of charge.

Upon entering the conservatory, one is immediately struck by the lush greenery that surrounds them. The space is reminiscent of a greenhouse, with tall glass walls allowing ample sunlight to filter in and bathe the plants in warmth. The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the gentle sound of trickling water from various fountains and water features scattered throughout the space.

The Barbican Conservatory houses an extensive variety of plant species, including orchids, palms, ferns, cacti, and succulents. One can find both common and rare species thriving in this controlled environment. The vibrant colours and diverse textures of the flowers add visual interest to every corner of the conservatory. Some noteworthy flora include:

Orchids: With their delicate petals and intricate structures, orchids are a favourite among visitors. The conservatory boasts an impressive collection of these beautiful plants in various colours and sizes. Palms: Towering palm trees create a tropical atmosphere within the conservatory’s walls. Their large leaves provide shade for other plants beneath them while adding height and dimension to the space. Ferns: These ancient plants thrive in the humid conditions provided by the conservatory’s climate control system. Their lush foliage adds texture and depth to the overall landscape. Cacti and Succulents: These drought-tolerant plants are well-represented in the conservatory’s collection due to their ability to survive in various temperature conditions without excessive watering. Their unique shapes and vibrant colors make them popular among visitors seeking something unusual or eye-catching. Cantus (Canada Lilies): These stunning aquatic plants add beauty above and below water with their large pink or white blooms that sit atop long stems above clear ponds filled with koi fish (which are not native to this region but have become a beloved feature). The Barbican Conservatory offers visitors an opportunity to escape from urban life for a brief moment while immersing themselves in nature’s splendour. Its free admission makes it accessible to all who wish to enjoy its offerings without financial burden – making it an essential destination for those seeking tranquillity amidst London’s...

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Barbican Conservatory houses numerous lush greeneries and is now the home of Indian sculptor Ranjani Shettar's installation ‘Cloud songs on the horizon'

This tropical oasis hosts several handcrafted sculptures that makes you feel like you are in an alternate whismisical reality.

Everything was so dreamy especially when the sun sets and as the sculptural pieces are illuminated with a warm and comforting glow.

The artist behind this installation encourages viewers to bask in the ambiance of this otherworldly space by smelling the flowers and viewing the sculptures from different angles to appreciate their beauty.

They also have a bar and snack area in the middle of all of these jungle lushness which you can get some drinks and snacks whilst you explore.

They also have a lot of seating and intimate nooks throughout the space which is perfect for just sitting and enjoying all of its glory.

Honestly I would highly recommend visit this installation especially with loved ones and friends.

This installation will run until July 2024

Location: Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS Nearest Tube Station: Barbican, St Paul’s, Farringdon and Moorgate Price - FREE Requirements - Book a free ticket to get into this exhibition.

Anyways catch you on the next one ♥️

#davidtriesitall #cloudsongsonthehorizon #barbicanconservatory #ranjanishettar #freethingstodo

Free things to do in London Cloud Song on the Horizon Barbican Centre Barbican Conservatory Ranjani Shettar Installation London Free things to do in London...