Property for sale or rent in Barbican EC1
The Barbican has a long history going back to Roman times, when a fort was built in the area (barbican mean fortified outpost or gateway). From the 16th century onwards it was an area of thieves and prostitutes, as well as artists and writers. Shakespeare was a resident of the area at one stage, as was Ben Johnson.
The district was always predominantly poor well into the 20th century. It was very heavily bombed during the second world war and the whole area was left inhabited until its redevelopment by ‘brutalist’ architects, Chamberlin, Powell and Bon. Building work was completed in 1976.
The Barbican Estate and Barbican Centre are London landmarks. They are gradually being overshadowed as more skyscrapers begin to dominate the London skyline but, at the time of their construction, they were very noticeable and divided opinions.
To this day people will either hate or love the buildings. The Barbican complex was once voted London ‘s ugliest building (2003) but nevertheless has been a Grade II listed building since two years before that.
The Barbican Centre is a bit of labyrinth and it is easy to get lost in it, but some would say that’s part of its charm. Some improvements have been made since the 90s to make it easier for people to navigate. Once you are within the complex and know your way around, the place is rather peaceful, away from traffic noise and with its many attractive water features.
Due to its proximity to the City and the West End, the area attracts a lot of young professionals. Many MPs also have a base there.
When it comes to culture, you’re spoilt for choice, with the Arts and Conference Centre the largest of its kind in Europe and housing 18 separate venues. It means that Barbican Theatre (London base of the Royal Shakespeare Company), Barbican Arts Gallery, Barbican Cinema and Barbican Hall (a fantastic concert venue with over 2,000 seats) are all right on your doorstep. There are also plenty of good restaurants and bars not far away.
Properties in Barbican
Barbican estate consists of 13 terrace blocks, grouped around the central lake and green squares. As well as over 2,000 flats of over 140 different designs, there are maisonettes in the podium structure. Living in one of the towers of the estate is an opportunity for fantastic views, particularly if you opt for one of the spectacular penthouses. The three tallest towers, Cromwell Tower, Shakespeare Tower and Lauderdale Tower are all 42 storeys and 123 metres high, each with penthouses of up to five bedrooms each on the top two or three floors.
Nearby property outside the estate is mostly post-war, as the area was heavily bombed, and includes some attractive terrace houses, conversions and purpose-built blocks.
Buying or renting in Barbican – useful information
Transport links – Barbican is perfectly positioned for both the West End and the City. As well as Barbican Underground station, other nearby tubes include Old Street, Farringdon, St Pauls and Moorgate. Liverpool Street mainline station is also close by. For more details, see Transport for London
Schools – City of London School for Girls, one of the top schools in the country, is based in the Barbican, as is the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the science faculty of City University. There are several primary schools close by. There’s also Richard Cloudesley School , a special day school for pupils of all ages. For more information, see the School League Tables
Places of interest in the Barbican– Museum of London • Barbican Hall • Barbican Theatre • Barbican Art Gallery • St Giles’ Church (the only pre-war one in the area still standing)
Local Authority – City of London for the Barbican Estate, and Islington for some other areas. Details of amenities, council tax rates and more are on the City of London website and the Islington Council website
Find out more about property in Barbican
Outlet Estate Agents offers a selection of flats and apartments for sale and rent in the Barbican and nearby. For current property, see properties for sale or to rent in Barbican
In addition, anyone with property to rent or for sale in Barbican or the EC1 postcode is welcome to contact us.
You may want to also have a look at some of our property guides in nearby areas, including:
King’s Cross Property Guide
Angel Property Guide
Farringdon Property Guide
Shoreditch Property Guide
For further information on living, buying, selling, renting or letting in the Barbican, please contact us
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