Spiritland launches stunning new London listening bar at The Barbican
London is buzzing with a new sonic destination, a place where world-class music meets magnificent architecture and the art of collecting. The Barbican Centre has teamed up with Spiritland to unveil a truly unique listening bar: Spiritland At The Barbican.
This collaboration marks a special milestone, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of the original Coal Drops Yard site, establishing a venue that promises to be as rich in sound as it is in history. Nestled on Level 2 of the Barbican, the space offers stunning lakeside views overlooking the fountains, creating an atmospheric backdrop for an unparalleled musical experience.
The curation at Spiritland At The Barbican is anything but predictable. It offers a daily programme of artists and record collectors diving deep into a vast spectrum of genres. From the soulful depths of jazz and classical to the expansive textures of ambient and electronica, every sound is carefully selected to complement the centre’s wider cultural programming.
Beyond the daily schedule, the venue is designed for extended enjoyment. Guests can indulge in nightly listening sessions, insightful talks, and curated supper clubs. A particular nightly feature is the 5pm album playback, where visitors can experience an entire album, whether it’s a classic masterpiece from Bach, a modern hit by Beck, or a rare gem from an emerging artist.
The philosophy driving the space is rooted in the belief that music is a powerful form of emotional communication. As Kevin Scott of Living Voice notes, the objective is to preserve and present the artistry of the performance, allowing the emotional connection to be the key element.
Spiritland and the Barbican aim to create a sanctuary where the everyday can melt away. As Beau Vigushin, Chief Experience Officer at the Barbican, put it, the space offers an exciting reason to visit, inviting patrons to discover something unexpected with every encounter.
The experience extends beyond the music and ambiance. Hospitality is handled by celebrated London establishments, including Lardo, Smoking Goat, Milroys, and St. John, all contributing to an elevated dining experience enhanced by seasonal signature cocktails created by the Spiritland bar team.
The Listening Bar is set to open its doors on October 20 and will be welcoming guests from Tuesday to Sunday until July 2027. With a capacity of 100 guests, the venue promises a weeknight escape filled with exceptional sounds, delicious food, and unforgettable connections.