Royal Festival Hall at Southbank

Wow Nigel Kennedy what an evening . His skills as a violin & piano player are amazing. The violin sounded like an electric guitar at one point. The evening was thoroughly enjoyable with such a relaxed and informal atmosphere. It was our first time at the festival hall and we had travelled up from Dorset by train. The acoustic quality of the hall was evident very early in the concert. Such a memorable evening. Thank you Nigel Kennedy 🫵👊👊 The staff were very helpful. Just a few minutes walk from Waterloo station. The pop up food and bars 'between the bridges ' is fab for relaxing before or after concert.
Julie Smith - 3 months ago

1. A truly majestic venue with outstanding acoustics. Every performance here feels intimate and powerful at the same time. 2. Whether it’s a symphony or a jazz night, the Royal Festival Hall never disappoints. Top-tier experience in every sense. 3. Great location by the Thames, easy to get to, and full of cultural energy. Highly recommended for any music lover.
chiang bryan - 3 months ago

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 of Waterloo.
Matthew Apostolou - 2 months ago

Excellent venue, as always. I've always loved the architecture and style there. I'm glad there haven't been too many updates, as it's come back in fashion. I even took photos of the entrance doors near the skateboarding area. My family thought I was crazy. They don't understand the long-standing relationship I've had with those doors 😁.
J M - a month ago

Lovely venue right on the Southbank, easy to get to, right beside Waterloo station and just over Hungerford Bridge from Charing Cross. I didn't go to see a concert, but I went to visit the shop and cafe. I went to the Seventy 5th Balcony Bar and enjoyed a lovely cup of tea overlooking the Thames, it has a great Terrace where you can sit outside on a nice summer's day and enjoy the sunshine and the spectacular views of London. A great place to meet friends and family for a catch up and have some great food and drink, also the Skylon restaurant for lovely A La Carte meals. Staff are all lovely friendly and helpful. Lifts available to all floors, also lots of stairs available and toilets are on all floors.
Venetia Cattroll - a month ago