Work on the Royal Festival Hall began in 1949, and the Hall opened in 1951 with a ceremonial concert attended by Queen Elizabeth II.

In 1984, the Royal Festival Hall foyers were opened to the public all day, seven days a week with free exhibitions and lunchtime concerts for all to enjoy.

The Royal Festival Hall became a Grade I listed building in 1988, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra became the Resident Symphony Orchestra.