ArcelorMittal Orbit: London’s Towering Sculpture and Thrill Ride
London’s tallest sculpture with panoramic city views and the world’s longest tunnel slide, blending art, adventure, and Olympic legacy.
The ArcelorMittal Orbit stands at 114.5 meters tall in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London’s tallest sculpture and a landmark of the 2012 Olympic Games. Designed by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond, it offers panoramic 360-degree views of London from two indoor observation decks and an outdoor walkway 80 meters above ground. Adventure seekers can experience the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide spiraling 178 meters around the tower, delivering a thrilling ride with twists, turns, and a corkscrew section.
A brief summary to ArcelorMittal Orbit
- Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 5 Thornton St, London, E20 2AD, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues, especially if you want to experience the slide.
- Visit on weekday afternoons for fewer crowds and more slide time.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and the slide experience.
- Use the spiral staircase for a unique descent and to experience the sculpture’s interior sounds and views.
- Check the weather forecast for clear skies to maximize visibility of London’s landmarks from the viewing platforms.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Stratford Station, served by the Central, Jubilee, and Overground lines. From there, it is a 10-15 minute walk through Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to the ArcelorMittal Orbit. Stratford Station is well connected and accessible, with frequent services. A single journey fare costs approximately £2.80–£4.90 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Stratford and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, including routes 97, 108, and 339. Buses run frequently during the day, with journey times from central London around 30-45 minutes. Bus fares are similar to the Tube, and contactless payment is accepted.
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Taxi / Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber provide direct access to the ArcelorMittal Orbit entrance. Journey times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from central London to range between £15 and £30.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Stratford or the Olympic Park area, walking to the Orbit is pleasant and accessible, taking approximately 10 to 20 minutes on flat, paved paths through the park. The route is wheelchair accessible.
ArcelorMittal Orbit location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about ArcelorMittal Orbit
Architectural Marvel and Olympic Legacy
The ArcelorMittal Orbit is a striking red steel sculpture created as a lasting legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Designed by renowned artist Sir Anish Kapoor and structural engineer Cecil Balmond, the sculpture stands 114.5 meters tall, making it the tallest structure and largest piece of public art in the UK. Constructed from 2,000 tonnes of steel, equivalent to the weight of over 1,100 London black cabs, it symbolizes strength and innovation in steel engineering. Its twisting lattice design is both an artistic statement and an engineering feat, visible from across the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and beyond.Unrivaled Panoramic Views
Visitors ascend via high-speed lifts to two indoor observation platforms at 76 and 80 meters above ground, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s skyline. Iconic landmarks such as The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral, Wembley Stadium, and Canary Wharf are visible on clear days, along with the Olympic Park’s waterways and gardens. An outdoor viewing walkway offers fresh-air perspectives, while interactive digital telescopes and concave mirrors inside the tower add playful elements to the experience. For those who prefer a more active descent, a 455-step spiral staircase winds around the sculpture, immersing visitors in distinctive London sounds.The World’s Longest and Tallest Tunnel Slide
Added in 2016, the Helix slide is the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide, stretching 178 meters and spiraling 12 times around the Orbit. This thrilling ride reaches speeds up to 15 mph and includes a tight corkscrew section known as the "bettfeder" (German for "bedspring"), followed by a 50-meter straight run to the ground. The slide is predominantly dark with intermittent transparent sections, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience that contrasts with the calm observation decks. It is suitable for visitors aged 8 and above who meet height and weight requirements.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The ArcelorMittal Orbit offers a unique combination of art, adventure, and panoramic sightseeing. The site is fully accessible, with wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, and facilities designed to accommodate guests with disabilities. The visitor pavilion at ground level provides amenities and information. Although temporarily closed for maintenance and management transition as of early 2024, the attraction is set to reopen under new operators with enhanced adventure experiences. Visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the viewing platforms and enjoying the slide.Setting in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Situated in the vibrant Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, the Orbit is surrounded by expansive green spaces, waterways, and sporting venues from the 2012 Games. The park offers a tranquil yet lively atmosphere, blending nature with urban regeneration. The sculpture’s location near Stratford Station makes it accessible while placing it within a dynamic cultural and recreational hub.Artistic and Cultural Significance
Beyond its physical presence, the ArcelorMittal Orbit represents a fusion of art, engineering, and Olympic spirit. It serves as a symbol of London’s ambition and creativity, showcasing the versatility of steel and innovative design. The collaboration between artist and engineer resulted in a landmark that challenges traditional notions of public sculpture by integrating interactive and adventurous elements, making it a multifaceted attraction for both culture lovers and thrill seekers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
London Stadium
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London Aquatics Centre
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ABBA Arena
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High St
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Westfield Stratford City
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Copper Box Arena
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The Bow Bells
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Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island
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Lee Valley VeloPark
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Victoria Park
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Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
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Mile End Park
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Ragged School Museum
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Essential places to dine
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supperclub.tube - Dining on a Tube Train
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Lyle's
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The Clove Club
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Nest Restaurant Old Street
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Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
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La Dame de Pic London
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14 Hills
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Restaurant Story
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Sefa Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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69b Boutique Sustainable Style
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Brick Lane Souvenirs
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The Brick Lane Vintage Market
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The Truman Brewery Markets
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Fashion St
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Sclater Street Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
