Hayward Gallery is a contemporary art gallery inside the Southbank Centre on Belvedere Road, near the Thames. Its programme changes throughout the year, with major exhibitions often filling the gallery’s spacious rooms with large-scale installations, photography, sculpture and video. The contrast between the building’s exposed concrete and the artworks is part of the visit. Check the current exhibition before you go: shows are ticketed, and the subject and scale of the work can vary considerably.
A changing programme of contemporary art
Hayward Gallery is the visual arts venue within the Southbank Centre. Its programme centres on temporary exhibitions, with around three to four shows a year. The artists and subjects change, so check what is on before planning your visit.
Exhibitions have ranged from retrospectives of established artists to group shows and experimental work. Photography, sculpture, film and video have all appeared in the programme. Some shows use the gallery’s scale for large installations that visitors can move through or experience at close range.
The gallery’s concrete setting
The gallery is known for its Brutalist architecture, with geometric concrete forms that provide a strong contrast to delicate or immersive works inside. The spacious rooms and generous height suit exhibitions with monumental pieces, though the building itself may feel plain if you are expecting a traditional museum interior.
Hayward Gallery sits on Belvedere Road within the Southbank Centre, close to the Thames. The wider complex has restaurants and other cultural venues, so you can plan the gallery around other stops along the South Bank.
Planning a visit
The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. Opening times vary by day, with later closing on weekends; check the current schedule alongside the exhibition information before setting out. Exhibitions are ticketed, and booking in advance is recommended. Ticket prices depend on the show.
For a quieter visit, go at a less busy time and allow room to move through the exhibition at your own pace. The building has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom, an assistive hearing loop and gender-neutral restrooms. There is also a restaurant on site.
FAQ
Where is Hayward Gallery?
It is at the Southbank Centre on Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX, near the Thames.
Is entry to Hayward Gallery free?
Exhibitions are ticketed. Check the current show’s ticket details before visiting.
Should I book Hayward Gallery tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended. Check availability for the exhibition you plan to see.
How long do you need at Hayward Gallery?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the exhibition and how long you spend with the artworks.
