ArcelorMittal Orbit
Enjoy a spectacular view of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the London skyline and take a breathtaking ride down the world's tallest slide from the top of the ArcelorMittal Orbit
![ArcelorMittal Orbit at night](http://cdn.tourbytransit.com/london/images/ArcelorMittal-Orbit-slide-looking-down.jpg)
Designed and constructed for the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is a unique monument and sculpture that is an Olympic legacy landmark and one of the city's newest tourist attractions. In addition it now boasts the tallest and longest tunnel slide in the world — a thrilling ride that corkscrews from the top of the tower to the park below.
Located in what is now Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park the ArcelorMittal Orbit is a 376 foot tall artistic monument engineered and sculpted with steel tubing. It is the tallest sculpture in the United Kingdom. The tower, which was to be a symbol and legacy of the 2012 Summer Olympics, was built according to a winning design by the renowned artist Sir Anish Kapoor and engineer Cecil Balmond. Inspite of some controversy, due to the economic recession at the time of construction, this unusual and gigantic work of art was completed in time for the Olympics. After the Olympic Games it was closed to visitors while work was done to convert the surrounding park area to its post olympic state. The Orbit reopened in April of 2014 as a permanant tourist attraction.
Visitors to the park can not only view this unique structure from the park, but for a fee they can go to one of the two indoor viewing platforms near the top and enjoy a panoramic view of the park and beyond. It is a good idea to pre-book your tickets online to avoid long line-ups and make sure you can get in.
To add excitement, for an additional fee you can enjoy a thrilling 40 second slide at speeds up to 25 kph down the tower's newly opened feature, the tallest, longest tunnel slide on the planet. This exciting slide corkscrews down the tower, first in one direction, then abruptly changing to the opposite direction, all the while alternating between clear sections and complete darkness.
Of course, if you prefer you can enjoy the far more leisurely 12 minute descent down the spiral staircase.
About 2000 tons of tubular steel was used in the construction of the ArcelorMittal Orbit. The 2 viewing platforms near the top each have a capacity of about 150 people. The centre, or 'trunk' of the tower contains an elevator and is wrapped with a spiral staircase that has 455 steps. According to Kapoor one of the things that influenced the design was the Tower of Babel and Balmond envisioned the orbit of an electron. Either way, the end result is definitely a unique design that many like and many do not, but whichever camp you fall into, you can always enjoy the great view from the top.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes.ArcelorMittal Orbit Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 5 Thornton St, London E20 2AD, UK
Official Website: ArcelorMittal Orbit
ArcelorMittal Orbit Reviews
Rated
A really interesting sculpture that is iconic when thinking about the Olympics. This is a large feature that stands out from a long way away. It is a neat site to visit.
Matthew Harwood - a week ago
My visit to the ArcelorMittal Orbit in London was an unforgettable experience that truly stands out amongst the plethora of attractions the city has to offer. This isn't just any ordinary slide; it's a remarkable fusion of innovative architecture and adrenaline-pumping excitement. The slide itself is a quick 40-45 second descent, but those moments are packed with a rush that rivals any theme park water tunnel, yet in a completely unique setting.
The structure of the ArcelorMittal Orbit is an artistic marvel, towering above the London skyline. Its design is unlike anything I've ever seen, combining the thrill of a slide with the elegance of a sculpture. The ride was exhilarating, to say the least, sending me through twists and turns at a pace that was both thrilling and entirely safe, thanks to the meticulous precautions and equipment provided. Before embarking on this adventure, all personal belongings are securely stored in lockers, and safety gear including knee pads and gloves are provided to ensure a smooth experience.
The staff at ArcelorMittal Orbit deserve special mention for their friendliness and understanding, making the entire process from start to finish seamless and enjoyable. Beyond the sheer thrill of the slide, the ArcelorMittal Orbit offers another unparalleled feature: the view from the top. Before you take the plunge, you're treated to a breathtaking panorama of London, offering a unique perspective on the city that is worth the visit alone.
Although the slide is the main attraction, the site boasts other activities that I'm eager to return for. The fact that it holds the title of the world's tallest and longest tunnel slide only adds to its allure. My first visit was an incredible adventure, and I'm already planning a return trip later this year to explore
Akhilesh Dinesan - 4 months ago
What a thrill. Loved it, definitely take the slide if you are in the area. Views are spectacular from the top bit the slide down is awesome. Plenty gear and gopro video if you want also. Very safe, storage lockers for belongings, cafe and seating and gift shop also
Anna Hickey - a year ago
I was given this experience as a gift which came with a bottle of prosecco. There was a bit of a wait to get on the ride but it was fun watching others go down. The slide was enjoyable but was over quite quickly. I would recommend trying it once but it's not something I'll keep going back to try. I would buy tickets in advance and tell them you have a ticket with prosecco at reception.
Sarah C - 10 months ago
Myself and my 16-year-old daughter recently visited the ArcelorMittal Orbit, which is a giant observation wheel and slide in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London. We had a great time and would definitely recommend this experience to others.
We started by riding the slide, which was very exciting given how high it was and the length of time you got to ride it. It's definitely not for the faint of heart, but it's a lot of fun.
After the slide, we went to the viewing level, which is located at the top of the Orbit. The views of London from the viewing level are amazing. You can see all the way from Buckingham Palace to the Shard. The outside viewing platforms are very good, although if you're not good with heights, this is definitely something that will test your nerves.
We didn't do the abseiling, but my sons are planning to come in the future to give it a go.
Overall, we had a really enjoyable time. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the views are simply amazing.
If you're looking for a fun and exciting activity in London, I would definitely recommend visiting.
Alan Kinney - a year ago
Directions
Underground | Overground Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Central, Jubilee or London Overground | Stratford | 13 Minutes |
How to get to ArcelorMittal Orbit by Underground | Overground
From Stratford Station take the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park exit. At Westfield Stratford City take escalator, stairs or lift up to the outside pedestrian overpass and follow it across the road and through the outdoor shopping and restaurant mall and take the 2nd left at the Holiday Inn to the park entrance. Make your way through the park to the ArcelorMittal Orbit.
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Photo Gallery
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ArcelorMittal Orbit and Olympic Stadium cc licensed photo by David Jones -
Construction and design details cc licensed photo by Danny Nicholson -
ArcelorMittal Orbit viewing platforms at night cc licensed photo by James Mitchell -
Looking down on the new ArcelorMittal Orbit Slide Photo © ArcelorMittal Orbit -
Looking up at the twists and turns of the ArcelorMittal Orbit Slide Photo © ArcelorMittal Orbit -
Riding the ArcelorMittal Orbit Slide Photo © ArcelorMittal Orbit -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: 35mmMan - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Peter O'Connor aka anemoneprojectors - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Peter O'Connor aka anemoneprojectors - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: 35mmMan - cc license via Flickr
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