Guide to classical music in London

Intimate concert hall Wigmore Hall has a capacity of under 600 and impressive acoustics. It's internationally renowned as a site for chamber music. Sought-after acts perform here as well as new talent, with genres ranging from Renaissance music to contemporary works. The venue livestreams some concerts and has its own education programme.

Grade I listed building the Royal Albert Hall is one of the capital's architectural marvels. It's also one of London's top venues for taking in classical music performances, as well as concerts covering other genres. It's perhaps best known as the home of the BBC Proms, a celebration of classical music that takes place every summer.

If you enjoy opera music then the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden is a must. This Grade I listed building is one of the largest concert halls in the capital. Ballet and opera performances are on regularly but you can also visit for a tour of this impressive site.

Moments from Trafalgar Square, St Martin-in-the-Fields is an inclusive Anglican church that's particularly well-known for classical and choral music performances. There are regular free lunchtime concerts as well as evening performances, taking place in a unique atmosphere. The church also hosts family-friendly and educational performances that everyone can appreciate.

The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is a fascinating historical building with lots happening, from dog shows to yoga classes or music performances. Head to the chapel with stunning stained glass windows to enjoy choral and classical concerts in glorious surroundings. This venue is notably a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conway Hall serves at the HQ for The Ethical Society and hosts a wide range of events that promote ethics. There are discussions, art exhibitions, comedy shows, and regular performances of classical music. Classical concerts featuring a variety of acts are on every Sunday. The performance space has a grand look with a curved ceiling.

Located near King's Cross, Kings Place is a music hub with two concert halls in one venue. Visitors can enjoy a year-round programme of classical music, along with other genres like jazz, folk, and contemporary music. There are also educational and family-friendly performances, plus other events like comedy shows, discussions, and art exhibitions at the in-house galleries.

The Barbican Centre is a renowned example of Brutalist architecture. This arts centre has lots to enjoy, including an indoor rainforest, art exhibitions, a library, and regular performances of both classical and contemporary music. You can enjoy opera, ancient music, and contemporary classical compositions here, including performances by the London Symphony Orchestra.

St James's Church is located right in the middle of Piccadilly and has plenty going on besides religious services. It's a popular place to visit for classical music performances, including free-of-charge recitals at lunchtime and intimate performances illuminated by candlelight. You can catch performances from world-renowned musicians as well as up-and-coming talent.

Guildhall School of Music and Drama is a leading music and drama school that puts on regular public performances. There are hundreds of performances each year including orchestral and classical music, opera, and jazz. There are also talks and interactive workshops here. Some of the events are free of charge.

Widely known as the actors' church, St Paul's Church in Covent Garden is an appealing red brick church. There are religious services plus much more to discover. There are choral music performances as well as free classical music recitals at lunchtimes. Other events at the church include theatrical productions and events for children.

The Royal Festival Hall sits on the banks of the Thames and is part of the Southbank Centre. It's one of London's leading classical music venues. There are a wide variety of classical music performances here as well as gigs from contemporary acts, comedy shows, theatre, and events aimed at children and families. Bars and eateries are also available on-site.

The oldest conservatoire in the country is the Royal Academy of Music. As well as educating up-and-coming talent, the school hosts public performances and recitals. You can enjoy performances from students as well as established names. Genres include classical, opera, chamber music, and jazz. Public masterclasses with top musicians are also held here.

London's largest theatre is the ornate London Coliseum, with a capacity of 2,359. This grand venue plays host to regular performances of opera music, as well as ballet productions – it's the home of the English National Ballet. A varied range of music events are on, including classical interpretations of pop hits.

St Olave's Church is one of the capital's few surviving Medieval churches and is the burial place of Samuel Pepys. This impressive building is home to weekly church services that are streamed online. There are regular lunchtime performances of classical music too, featuring work by composers such as Bach and Chopin.

In Wandsworth you'll see St Anne's Church, a Grade II listed church with an inclusive and friendly attitude. There are religious services and Bible study groups as well as a variety of other activities. These include regular performances of classical and choral music. Music fans can join the choir here. You can also hire the church hall for events and parties.

Intimate venue Cadogan Hall has a capacity of just 950. This Chelsea venue is unique and luxurious, and it's the home of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. As well as taking in a classical or orchestral performance here you can enjoy genres like folk and jazz or join film screenings, discussions, and dance performances.

In the heart of the city, St Stephen Walbrook is a popular church with grand and ornate architecture. There are lots of activities happening here. There are church services and prayer sessions as well as a range of musical performances. Take in a classical concert at lunchtime or visit for choral music and jazz sessions.

Music is a big deal at Southwark Cathedral, which is home to an impressive cathedral organ and a cathedral choir. A variety of concerts and recitals take place here as well spanning genres including jazz, classical, and choral music. These include some free afternoon recitals and organ recitals. If you'd like to organise your own recital you can also do that here.

Church and concert hall St John's Smith Square was restored in the 1960s and is a unique space to take in a performance. It combines impressive acoustics, architecture, and atmosphere to create a distinctive musical experience. It's one of the city's top destinations for classical music and also has its own café in the crypt.

Grade I listed church building LSO St Luke's is now a base for the London Symphony Orchestra. At this distinctive building there are regular performances for classical and orchestral music fans. Daytime and evening recitals take place here, including lunchtime concerts. Added to that, there are musical workshops and classical music talks.

At the Institut Français you can immerse yourself in French culture and language. Browse in the library, attend a film screening, join a language course, or attend a concert. Musical performances here cover a variety of genres, including classical and Middle Age music. There are also activities suitable for children and a library just for children.