When you think of Proms Festival, a summer-long series of live classical music concerts in London, primarily organized by the BBC. Also known as BBC Proms, it’s one of the largest and most accessible classical music events in the world. Every year from July to September, the city fills with the sound of orchestras, choirs, and soloists performing everything from Beethoven to new commissions—often for less than £10. You don’t need a ticket in advance for the famous Promenading area; just show up, stand in the arena at Royal Albert Hall, and let the music move you.
The Royal Albert Hall, London’s most famous concert venue, built in 1871 and home to the Proms since 1941. is the heart of the festival, but the experience doesn’t stop there. Free outdoor screenings, late-night concerts in parks, and performances at smaller venues like Cadogan Hall and the Southbank Centre mean you can enjoy the Proms Festival no matter your budget or schedule. It’s not just for classical fans—it’s for anyone who’s ever felt chills from a powerful melody or wanted to hear a symphony without the stuffy atmosphere.
What makes the Proms different? It’s the mix of tradition and surprise. You’ll hear the same Last Night traditions—Union Jacks, flag-waving, and Rule Britannia—but also brand-new pieces by young composers, jazz-classical fusions, and even film scores played live. The audience isn’t silent and still; people clap between movements, sing along, and sometimes even dance in the aisles. It’s loud, it’s messy, it’s joyful. And it’s open to everyone.
You’ll find guides here on how to get tickets without paying over the odds, which concerts are best for first-timers, and where to grab the cheapest food and drinks nearby. We’ve got tips on the best seats in the hall, how to navigate the Tube after midnight, and which hidden gigs outside the main venue are worth your time. Whether you’re a lifelong classical listener or you’ve never set foot in a concert hall, this collection will help you make the most of the Proms Festival—without the stress, the myths, or the markup.
The BBC Proms is London's legendary summer classical music festival, offering affordable concerts at the Royal Albert Hall. From symphonies to film scores, it’s open to everyone-no experience needed.