Queen Elizabeth Hall

Queen Elizabeth Hall London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Queen Elizabeth Hall (QEH), a prominent feature of London’s South Bank, stands as an enduring symbol of post-war cultural regeneration and architectural innovation. Opened in 1967 by Queen Elizabeth II, QEH is a hub for artistic experimentation, renowned performances, and vibrant community engagement. As part of the Southbank Centre complex—alongside the Royal Festival Hall and Hayward Gallery—QEH attracts music lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural explorers from around the world. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Queen Elizabeth Hall’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions to ensure a memorable and informed visit (Southbank Centre; Wikipedia).

Queen Elizabeth Hall Purcell Room South Bank London

Interior view of Queen Elizabeth Hall Purcell Room on South Bank London with rows of seating and stage

History and Architectural Highlights
Visitor Information
Event Experience and Programming
Nearby Attractions and Local Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

History and Architectural Highlights

Origins and Cultural Significance
Queen Elizabeth Hall was conceived as part of the post-war transformation of the South Bank, an area previously dominated by industrial use. Following the landmark 1951 Festival of Britain, the site was earmarked for cultural development, leading to the creation of QEH to complement the Royal Festival Hall (Wikipedia). Built on the site of a former shot tower, the hall became an architectural statement, embodying the boldness of Brutalist design and representing the ambitions of a new era.

Design and Construction
The building’s design, by Hubert Bennett, Jack Whittle, and Geoffrey Horsefall, is a striking example of Brutalist architecture. It features distinctive board-marked concrete, cantilevered forms, and “mushroom” columns, all engineered to create dramatic overhangs and terraces (Southbank Centre). Despite initial controversy and being labeled “the ugliest building in Britain” by some, QEH’s design is now celebrated for its character and innovation (Time Out).

Renovation and Modernization
Between 2015 and 2018, QEH underwent a major renovation led by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. The £35 million project restored original features, improved accessibility, and modernized infrastructure—ensuring the building’s legacy and comfort for future generations (RIBA).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

General Opening: Queen Elizabeth Hall typically opens from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM during event days, with the box office operating from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Public areas of the Southbank Centre open daily from 12 noon.
Performance Entry: The foyer opens to ticket holders 90 minutes before performances.
Check Before Visit: Hours may vary during holidays or special events; always consult the official QEH page for the latest information.

Tickets and Booking

Purchase Options: Tickets are available online, by phone, or at the onsite box office (digital payments only).
Pricing: Ticket prices vary by event, with concessions for students, seniors, and Access Scheme members. Free and low-cost programs are also offered (Southbank Centre).
Advance Booking: Recommended for popular events and for arranging accessible seating.
Special Offers: Concession and companion tickets are available for visitors with disabilities; multibuy discounts may apply.

Accessibility

Step-Free Access: Available throughout the venue, including the main auditorium and foyer.
Wheelchair Spaces: Reserved seating available—book in advance for best options.
Accessible Toilets: Located in the foyer; Changing Places facility available in Royal Festival Hall.
Assisted Listening: Sennheiser infra-red hearing enhancement system available; request equipment at the Royal Festival Hall Ticket Office.
Support Services: Priority entry, loan wheelchairs (subject to availability), and staff assistance at the Welcome Desk (Southbank Centre Accessibility).

Getting There

Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX.
By Tube: Waterloo (Jubilee, Bakerloo, Northern, Waterloo & City lines) and Embankment stations are a short walk.
By Rail: Waterloo, Charing Cross, and Blackfriars stations.
By Bus: Many routes serve the Southbank Centre; night buses are available (London Theatre).
By Car: Parking is available at nearby car parks (e.g., National Theatre, APCOA Cornwall Road), including Blue Badge spaces. Advance booking is advised.
Cycling: Bicycle hire stations and cycling routes are nearby.

Amenities and Facilities

Food and Drink: Riverside Terrace Café and Rooftop Café Bar offer refreshments, with additional options throughout the Southbank Centre complex (Headout).
Cloakroom: Available for a small fee (subject to availability).
Cash-Free Venue: All payments are digital, including ticketing and concessions.
Washrooms: Accessible and baby changing facilities in the foyer.

Event Experience and Programming

Queen Elizabeth Hall presents a dynamic mix of classical, jazz, world music, dance, spoken word, and cross-disciplinary events. Its acoustically acclaimed auditorium (916 seats) has hosted historic performances by Pink Floyd, Daniel Barenboim, Deep Purple, and Jeanette Winterson, among others (Concert Archives). The adjacent Purcell Room is a hub for literature and intimate performances.

Key Festivals and Series:

Meltdown Festival: An annual artist-curated event.
New Music Biennial: Showcasing contemporary commissions.
ESEA Encounters: Celebrating East and Southeast Asian arts.

Special Spaces:

Roof Garden: Open in spring and summer, with city views.
Undercroft: Historic skateboarding and street art space (Time Out).

Family-Friendly:
The venue welcomes all ages and is suitable for family outings (Bandsintown).

Nearby Attractions and Local Tips

Royal Festival Hall: Neighbouring concert hall with diverse programming.
Hayward Gallery: Leading contemporary art exhibitions.
London Eye & Southbank Riverside Walk: Iconic views and leisurely walks.
National Theatre & BFI Southbank: Theatre and film experiences.
Local Dining: Brasserie Blanc, La Gamba, Wagamama, Honest Burgers, and more (Headout).

Travel Tip:
Arrive early to enjoy riverside views, nearby public art, and explore the Southbank’s many attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Queen Elizabeth Hall’s visiting hours?
A: Public areas open from 12 noon; the foyer opens 90 minutes before performances. Box office hours are typically 10:00 AM–7:00 PM. Always check the official site for updates.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online, by phone, or at the digital-only box office. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is Queen Elizabeth Hall accessible?
A: Yes. There is step-free access, accessible seating, toilets, and assisted listening devices. Reserve in advance for support.

Q: Are there age restrictions?
A: The venue is family-friendly and generally open to all ages.

Q: Can I bring my own food and drink?
A: Non-alcoholic refreshments are allowed; alcoholic drinks must be purchased onsite.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Limited paid parking is available nearby; public transport is strongly recommended.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours are offered periodically. Check the Southbank Centre’s website for schedules.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Queen Elizabeth Hall stands as a cornerstone of London’s cultural and architectural landscape. Its bold Brutalist design, rich event program, and commitment to accessibility make it an essential destination for anyone exploring the city’s arts scene. Whether you’re attending a world-class concert, enjoying the rooftop garden, or discovering nearby attractions, QEH promises a memorable and inclusive experience.