Royal Festival Hall — Attraction in London

The Royal Festival Hall, an architectural statement nestled within the Southbank Centre, consistently proves its mettle as a premier destination for classical music in London.

Having attended countless performances over the years, from the incisive artistry of a Lugansky to the magisterial precision of a Pollini – truly a privilege to witness his genius before his passing – and the compelling narratives spun by a Kissin or Uchida, the hall has consistently delivered.

What truly elevates the experience here is a combination of factors. The acoustics, having undergone significant improvements since its 1951 debut, now offer a certain clarity and presence. The experience up close is often wonderful, with the sound of the orchestra enveloping the listener. However, it must be said that this acoustic brilliance does not always extend evenly throughout the hall. In seats further from the stage, the sound can sometimes lack the immersive warmth and detail that the Barbican, its great London rival, often delivers more consistently across its auditorium. This can be a point of disappointment. Nevertheless, the space itself, originally conceived by Robert Matthew and Leslie Martin as an innovative "egg in a box," feels open and welcoming—a stark contrast to some of London's more traditional concert halls. Seating is comfortable, and the reliable air conditioning ensures an agreeable environment, regardless of the season. While acknowledging this acoustic trade-off, the Royal Festival Hall holds a distinct, preferred position for its bright, expansive atmosphere.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra, with Santtu-Matias Rouvali as its current Principal Conductor, alongside the Philharmonia Orchestra, whose podium is now commanded by Edward Gardner, consistently present programmes of the highest calibre. These resident ensembles, coupled with performances from distinguished guest orchestras and conductors who have graced this stage for decades, showcase the hall's versatility. The pianists I've mentioned exemplify the range: Lugansky's liquid, expressive phrasing; Pollini's legendary precision and intellectual rigour; Kissin's formidable technique and profound emotional depth; and Uchida's ethereal touch and introspective lyricism – each artist finds the hall to be a sympathetic canvas for their unique voice.

Beyond the music, the building itself, a modernist icon, frames the experience perfectly. As a South African, I particularly appreciate the striking bronze bust of Nelson Mandela on the exterior walkway, a potent symbol of liberation and hope, reminding us of the profound connections art can forge across cultures and histories. It’s a space that feels both grand and accessible, a testament to enduring musical excellence and a cultural beacon that has hosted countless memorable nights.

Before or after a concert, the Southbank Centre Food Market nearby offers an excellent array of choices, and on a pleasant day, a leisurely stroll across the bridge to Embankment station, accessing the Northern Line, provides a far more agreeable departure than the bustle...

A grand old place, but rather concrete. That said, alot is done, not to hide it, but blend it in. The decor inside and out is all vibrant and invigorating. It sits beautifully on the Thames in the South Bank area with lovely view ls all round. There are 6 levels, but some are kind of mezzanine. It has a few bars, lots of toilets, and lifts. The whole place is well laid out and fairly easily accessible, but can be awkward in a wheelchair to get from one side to another on certain floors. That said the staff are great and so helpful. The lift with a view to outside also makes a noise which turns out to be a song as you listen and then arrive on your floor so it rather entertaining. The building seems so look it between a blue side and a green side. This is because it is so big and so helps visitors find their way around easier. The hall itself is very big with great acoustics, but you really would hope for that in a place called the Festival Hall:) Nearest train station is Waterloo which is right across the road from it (you need to come out the main entrance, cross the road and go through the passage underneath the rail bridge... Then you are there. As you do that, if you need wheelchair access, look for the lift which is on the left side of the building as you look at it. Nearest tubes are Waterloo, Westminster and Embankment (if you arrive at Victoria). The London Eye and London Aquarium are right by it. The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the Mall leading to Trafalgar Square are just across the...

Always love coming here. Beautiful venue and world class performances. Visited tonight for the Christmas Actually show. Unfortunately there was a gaggle of p*ssed up, middle aged women sat right in front of us, making an absolute spectacle of themselves and acting disgracefully. They seemed to think they were watching a cheap pantomime and were totally ignorant of how much they were totally ticking off EVERYONE around them whilst also ignoring the many times they were asked to be quiet and shushed by people. The staff did send security to talk to them after I complained (and overheard several other groups complaining to staff about them during the interval) but the women seemed to think they were being victimised by “boring people.” I can’t imagine being that delusional. I can’t say what happened after as we’d had enough and didn’t return for the second half. Really wish people like this would learn how to act (we haven’t come out and paid almost £70 a seat to hear you squawking) or just stay away from live shows. I also wish venues were more on top of dealing with these types of people. It’s only ever a small minority but they can affect the enjoyment of so many. I shouldn’t have to get up from my seat and exit the theatre to get staff to pay attention to a group of roughly 10-12 clearly intoxicated, very disruptive and disrespectful women in their audience. The soundscape in the lift wins them a point back. Such a cool...