Opening times

In the meantime, we believe that access to art, music and creativity is more important than ever, so stay connected for your regular culture fix of blogs, videos, podcasts and playlists on our website and social channels.

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Opening times: 10am – 11pm every day. 

Auditorium doors open 30 minutes before the event start time

Entry to our foyers is free although sometimes it is restricted to provide space for audiences as they arrive for performances - please look out for signs and listen to announcements.

Occasionally Royal Festival Hall is closed to the public due to private hire, we publicise these times across the site and online, so please check before visiting.

see what's on Royal Festival Hall

Opening times: 10am – 11pm every day.

Entry to our foyers is free, and you are welcome to come in and enjoy the atmosphere with or without a ticket.

See what's on Queen Elizabeth Hall

See what's on Purcell Room

Opening times : 11am – 7pm every day except Tuesdays. Late night openings on Thursday until 9pm. 

Hayward Gallery Cafe has the same opening hours. The cafe does not open when the main galleries are closed for installation. 

see what's on at Hayward Gallery

Located in Southbank Centre Square, our food markets are open most Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as bank holiday Mondays.

Opening times:

Friday, 12 noon – 8pm
Saturday, 11am – 8pm 
Sunday, 12 noon – 6pm 
Monday (bank holidays only), 12 noon – 6pm.

More about SC Food Market

Opening times: 11am – 8pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

National Poetry Library is open to all and free to join with proof of a UK address. You can find it on Level 5 of Royal Festival Hall.

see what's on at National Poetry Library

Opening times: 10.30am – 1pm, Tuesday & 2pm – 4.30pm, Wednesday.

The Archive Studio is a collaborative project to make the most of Southbank Centre’s extensive archive. Everyone aged 16+ is welcome, and access is free. You can find it on Level 2 of Royal Festival Hall.

More about the Archive Studio