The Barbican Centre was opened by HM The Queen on 3 March 1982. The Barbican's architects were able to work on a new site, utilising the ground that was destroyed by the Blitz in World War Two. The Barbican Centre contains a concert hall, two theatres, three cinemas, two art galleries, a public lending library and conversatory.

The largest venue inside the Barbican Centre is the Barbican Hall. The Barbican Hall has a seating capacity of 1,943 people, and is typically home to concerts and music events from classical to contemporary. The main venue at the Barbican Centre is the Barbican Theatre, with a seating capacity of 1,156. Previous shows at Barbican Theatre include Jesus Christ Superstar and Grief is the Thing With Feathers.

The Barbican may not be the prettiest venue; it was voted "London's ugliest building" in 2003. But, its stand-out architectural design makes it an integral part of London's skyline.