Can I bring food into Royal Festival Hall?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and soft drinks into the Southbank Centre spaces, including the Royal Festival Hall. While permitted in public areas, specific events may have restrictions on food and drink, and it is generally recommended to consume outside food in designated foyer areas rather than the main auditoriums.

Can you take food into Royal Festival Hall?

You are welcome to bring your own food and soft drinks to the Royal Festival Hall foyers. However, please note that only alcoholic drinks purchased at the Southbank Centre can be consumed here. Our Hayward Gallery Cafe is for visitors who are purchasing food and beverages from the venue.

Is there a dress code for Royal Festival Hall?

There is no strict dress code for the Royal Festival Hall; you can wear smart casual attire like jeans, shirts, or dresses, but many people dress up for classical concerts, while casual wear is fine for others. The key is comfort, though for classical music, some prefer smart or evening wear to match the atmosphere, but most wear everyday clothes, so aim for "reasonably clean and tidy".
 

Is the Royal Festival Hall all seated?

The Royal Festival Hall London has a capacity of 2529 seats. Section capacities are 663 Front Stalls, 997 Rear Stalls, 133 Side Stalls, 48 Green Side Boxes, 72 Blue Side Boxes and 616 Balcony. Use our interactive seating plan to view 641 seat reviews and 601 view from seat photos.

What is the best time to visit the Southbank Centre?

Best Time to Visit: The South Bank is lively year-round, but visiting during spring and summer is ideal for enjoying the riverside atmosphere and outdoor activities. While weekends and school holidays can get crowded, the area's large open spaces mean it rarely feels overwhelming.

Welcome to Southbank Centre

Can you drink at South Bank?

Can I consume alcohol at South Bank? Yes. Alcohol is permitted in designated licensed areas - River Quay, Picnic Island Green and Riverside Green - between 10am and 8pm, provided you are of legal drinking age and are consuming substantial food with your drinks.

What is the nearest tube to Southbank Centre?

The nearest tube station to the Southbank Centre is Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Waterloo & City lines), just a 200-meter walk away, while Embankment (District & Circle lines) is also close, about 600 meters across the river via Hungerford Bridge. 

Which is London's biggest theatre?

Reference no. At the time of construction, the Coliseum was one of the few theatres in Europe to provide lifts for taking patrons to the upper levels of the house, and was the first theatre in England to have a triple revolve installed on its stage. The theatre has 2,359 seats making it the largest theatre in London.

Can I wear trainers to the theatre?

From a casual t-shirt, jeans and trainers to a tuxedo or formal dress, there are no dress codes. For some theatrical events, such as a first preview, press nights, galas and opening nights, it may be worth donning a "smart-casual" outfit.

Is it better to dress up or down for concerts?

While concert halls might conjure visions of people in tuxedos and stiff gowns, there is no formal dress code here. Attending a concert should be about enjoying the music, not worrying about how you look.

Can you take shopping bags into the theatre?

Shopping bags (plastic or paper) are generally fine, you may be asked to leave them in the cloakroom if they are very large. Suitcases will generally have to be left in a cloakroom. All bags will be searched, no matter the size and you generally won't be allowed to bring alcohol or unwrapped food in.

How early should I arrive for a show?

It's best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show's scheduled start time. This should allow you enough time to get through security, find your seats, and familiarize yourself with the theater.

What is the best food to eat at South Bank Market?

Southbank Centre Food Market

Rich Caribbean curries, Venezuelan arepas, Korean bimibimbap, Nigerian jollof, smashburgers, savoury crepes, Ethiopian injeera, Indian dosas, Polish kolbasa, Vietnamese banh mi, wood-fired pizzas... you name it, they've got it!

What to wear to the Royal Festival Hall?

There is no strict dress code for the Royal Festival Hall; you can wear smart casual attire like jeans, shirts, or dresses, but many people dress up for classical concerts, while casual wear is fine for others. The key is comfort, though for classical music, some prefer smart or evening wear to match the atmosphere, but most wear everyday clothes, so aim for "reasonably clean and tidy".
 

Where is the best place to sit in the Royal Festival Hall?

Front Stalls Guide

The rows towards the back of the front stalls, this could provide some sight restrictions if the show features a complex set, but is less of a problem for orchestral concerts. The best seats in this section can be found in the central block, as they will have the clearest, most panoramic views.

What is South Bank famous for?

What is South Bank known for? South Bank is one of London's top locations, boasting a fantastic selection of galleries, museums and frequent cultural events. Nestled on the river Thames, the South Bank offers views of the iconic London Eye, Big Ben and National Theatre.

Does Southbank Centre have a cafe?

You can grab a coffee and a slice of freshly made cake from our Ballroom Cafe. Or alternatively enjoy destination dining in the restaurant at Skylon. From coffee to cocktails, filling favourites to fine dining, plus some of London's best street food – it's all here at the Southbank Centre.