Walk the Barbican Highwalks and hear the story of post‑war London through a self‑guided audio tour. Explore raw concrete forms, hidden gardens and elevated promenades at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A flat slab of concrete catches the light as you step off the tube and onto the Barbican Highwalk. The audio cue begins, and the estate’s raw geometry — terraces, exposed bays and punctured walkways — comes into focus. Walkers move along elevated promenades that frame Lauderdale, Shakespeare and Cromwell towers, their silhouettes once the tallest residential forms in the city.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires light urban walking and negotiating stairs or ramps.
Wildlife
History
The Barbican Estate was conceived in the post‑WWII rebuilding period and designed mainly by Chamberlin, Powell and Bon; major construction took place from the late 1960s into the early 1980s.
Conservation
Concrete conservation and sensitive maintenance are ongoing challenges; stay on public routes, avoid graffiti and follow local signage to help preserve the estate.
Reserve your spot on the Brutalism in Barbican: An Architectural Audio Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Download the VoiceMap app before you go
The tour includes offline audio and maps; download them over Wi‑Fi to avoid using mobile data on the walk.
Wear supportive walking shoes
Highwalks include stairs, ramps and occasional uneven surfaces, so choose footwear with good grip.
Be mindful of residents
Parts of the estate are private housing—keep noise low and avoid entering marked private areas.
Bring a portable charger
Audio and map use drains battery; a small power bank keeps the tour running for the full 60–90 minutes.
Smartphone with VoiceMap app
Plays the narrated route, maps and geodata for the self‑guided tour.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides grip and support for Highwalk stairs, ramps and concrete surfaces.
Portable charger
Keeps your phone powered for audio playback and navigation.
Light waterproof layer
Protects against sudden London showers and keeps you comfortable on exposed podiums.
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