Although famed for notoriously dividing opinions, Brutalism undeniably shaped London’s iconic skyline throughout the 20th century, still evident today with some must-visit brutalist buildings still standing strong. With its raw concrete, functional forms, and bold designs, Brutalist architecture gave the capital some of its most iconic structures, and we’re about to break them down for you (in a metaphorical sense – don’t worry).
So, whether you admire the ragged beauty of brutalist buildings or are forever entranced by post-war architecture, here’s a look at some of the best brutalist buildings and structures in London that are definitely worth the visit.
1. The Barbican Estate
A Brutalist marvel, the Barbican Estate is a sprawling concrete utopia comprising residential towers, arts venues, serene gardens, and more. Completed in the 1970s, its jagged, futuristic design has become a landmark in London’s skyline. Alongside the iconic trio of towers—Shakespeare, Cromwell, and Lauderdale—the estate is home to the Barbican Centre, a cultural hub offering art exhibitions, theatre, and cinema. There’s even a gorgeous conservatory and greenhouse with an indoor rainforest, which we highly recommend visiting.
📍Barbican Estate, Barbican, London EC2Y 9BH.
2. Trellick Tower
The Trellick Tower stands tall and proud on the edges of Northwest London. Designed by Brutalist pioneer Ernő Goldfinger, this 31-storey residential block was completed in 1972, becoming infamous for its gritty appearance and towering height, but has since earned a cult following from London’s brutalist babes.
The separate service tower, connected by spine-chilling walkways, adds to the structure’s unmistakable profile. Once (and still frequently) feared, it’s now one of the most sought-after buildings for lovers of Brutalist architecture.
📍Trellick Tower, 5 Golborne Rd, London W10 5NR.
3. National Theatre
A Brutalist icon located directly on the South Bank, Sir Denys Lasdun’s National Theatre is as striking as it is divisive. Completed in 1976, its angular terraces, blocks, and stark use of concrete give it a dramatic presence, fitting for a theatre of such cultural importance.
Lasdun’s clever design integrates the building seamlessly into its riverside surroundings, making it a favourite among fans of Brutalism. However, King Charles once publically criticised the National Theatre for its ugliness, solidifying our reigning monarch as a hater of modern architecture.
📍National Theatre, South Bank, London SE1 9PX.
4. Alexandra Road Estate
We’re heading to Camden for our next entry, which is none other than the tranquil Alexandra Road Estate. Designed by Neace Brown, this eye-catching example of Brutalist residential architecture was completed in 1878. The estate’s signature curving, terraced blocks are framed by sweeping pedestrian paths and green spaces that are perfect for getting lost in. It’s one of our favourite examples of how Brutalism can create a vibrant, functional community while still making bold design statements.
📍Alexandra Road Estate, Langtry Walk, London NW8 0DU.
5. Penguin Pool at London Zoo
Although not technically a building, here’s a brutalist structure in London with a quirkier history than the rest. The Penguin Pool at London Zoo was designed by Berthold Lubetkin and Ove Arup, who later became famous for their work on the Sydney Opera House. This curved concrete masterpiece is a sleek departure from brutalism’s typically chunky and boxy buildings, featuring two intertwined ramps that the penguins used to play on.
Although the penguins have moved, this structure is still available to view. Their former Elephant House is another fantastic example of Brutalist architecture too, featuring design elements that embody the robust animal. To book your tickets for London Zoo, click here.
📍London Zoo, Outer Cir, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY.
6. Hayward Gallery
Another brutalist beauty on the South Bank, Hayward Gallery is brutalism in its most robust form. Designed by Norman Engleback and completed in 1968, the gallery’s jagged and raw concrete exterior is as much a work of art as the exhibitions they host. Its brutal, bunker-like aesthetic has drawn both praise and criticism since its inception, similar to its neighbour the National Theatre, but for fans of brutalist architecture, it’s an absolute must-visit.
📍Hayward Gallery, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 8XX.
7. Balfron Tower
The lesser-known sibling of Trellick Tower, Balfron Tower in Poplar was also designed by Ernő Goldfinger. Built in 1967, the tower’s separate service core, connected by aerial walkways, is a distinctive feature of Goldfinger’s Brutalist style. Balfron has undergone extensive refurbishment since its original formation, but its unmistakable concrete skeleton remains intact and standing proud. Also, here’s a fun fact for you: Goldfinger himself lived in Balfron Tower for a time to gain insight into the lives of its residents.
📍Balfron Tower, 7 St Leonards Road, Poplar, E14 0UY.
8. The Brunswick Centre
Tucked away in Bloomsbury, the Brunswick Centre is a residential and commercial complex with a striking Brutalist façade. Designed by Patrick Hodgkinson in the 1960s, its tiered, concrete apartments overlook a central concourse filled with shops, restaurants, and a cinema. Despite a rocky start, the Brunswick Centre has since become a beloved part of Bloomsbury, with its sharp, geometric forms standing as a tribute to the era’s utopian and community-focused ideals.
📍Unit 57, Bernard St, London WC1N 1BS.
9. Robin Hood Gardens
Designed by Alison and Peter Smithson, Robin Hood Gardens was a social housing project in Poplar built in the 1970s. The ‘streets in the sky’ layout aimed to foster community spirit, but the estate faced years of criticism for its stark, fortress-like appearance.
Despite its demolition in 2017, Robin Hood Gardens remains a touchstone in debates about Brutalist architecture and social housing. Parts of the original building were acquired by the V&A Museum to commemorate its place in architectural history. You can read more about that, here.
📍129 Woolmore St, London E14 0HG.
So, there you have it—London’s most iconic Brutalist buildings, celebrating the raw, unapologetic beauty of concrete design. Whether you’re a Brutalist convert or just curious about this striking time in architecture, these structures are more than just buildings—they’re bold statements and a slice of postwar history in the city’s ever-evolving urban landscape.