BBC Proms: a summer of classical music in London

The BBC Proms is an eight-week summer season of classical concerts centred on the Royal Albert Hall in London. Its mix of world-class orchestras and affordable standing tickets makes it one of the most open music festivals in the world.

Fun facts

• The Proms were founded in 1895, with Henry Wood as the conductor.
• Concerts moved to the Royal Albert Hall after the original Queen's Hall was destroyed in the Second World War.
• Cheap standing tickets, known as promming, are available for every concert.

What to see

• The Royal Albert Hall and the Albert Memorial opposite.
• The Natural History Museum and the V&A in South Kensington.
• Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

What to taste

• Fish and chips.
• A traditional afternoon tea.
• A Sunday roast in a London pub.

What to do

• Queue for a standing ticket in the Arena or Gallery.
• Join the celebrations of the Last Night of the Proms, including the open-air events in the parks.
• Walk along the South Bank of the Thames.

💡 Tip: From Heathrow the Piccadilly line goes directly to South Kensington, near the Royal Albert Hall; Gatwick, Stansted and Luton have trains into central London. Book seats for popular concerts early and reserve accommodation well ahead.