To many critics, it seemed ironic in 1968 that the new South Bank Centre should have its visual art gallery in the ‘ugliest’ of the various concrete structures around Belvedere Street.

Hewn from heavy concrete slabs, the Hayward is certainly an imposing ‘Brutalist’ structure. At night it continues to stand out like a sore thumb, no thanks to a ladder of neon strips advertising its presence to the world. However, as the concrete has weathered and perceptions have changed, the Hayward has gradually been accepted as an example of the ‘best of Brutalism’.

Inside, the gallery is spacious and well lit, with an ever changing programme of exhibitions. This is the heart of visual arts along the South Bank – the main gallery, but also the instigator of work in other centres and outdoors.

Attracting and celebrating the best names in British and International Art, the Hayward is a landmark gallery for London and is worth a visit whatever show is on.