ArcelorMittal Orbit

The Basics

Built in collaboration with artists Anish Kapoor and Carsten Höller, designer Cecil Balmond, and ArcelorMittal Steel, the Orbit is composed of 2,000 tonnes of tangled red steel twisting up into the sky. Two elevators transport passengers 260 feet (80 meters) up to the indoor observation decks. Those brave enough can then descend the 583-foot-long (178-meter) slide with 12 twists through a transparent tube, culminating in a corkscrew of turns and a final drop into darkness. Alternatively, take the elevators back to the ground level or descend 455 steps accompanied by a soundscape installation.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The ArcelorMittal Orbit is a must for thrill-seekers and those who appreciate elevated views.

• Entrance to the Orbit is reduced for children; check the website for all concession prices.

• There are a number of cafés and restaurants within walking distance from the Orbit.

• The Orbit Tower is accessible and offer wheelchairs to borrow on a first-come first-served basis.

How to Get There

The ArcelorMittal Orbit is located in East London, in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Take the tube from central London—it’s about a 10-minute walk from Stratford Station, on the Central and Jubilee lines—or one of various bus lines.

When to Get There

The Orbit Tower is open daily year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. The attraction hosts seasonal events such as evening fireworks viewing throughout the year. Check the website for a schedule and opening hours.

Abseiling

If the world’s longest tunnel slide wasn’t daring enough, the Orbit also offers abseiling (aka rappelling) from 262 feet (79 meters) in the air, making it the UK’s highest free fall. Professional instructors take participants through a thorough safety training and provide all safety gear. Then the adventure begins with a steep descent surrounded by views of London’s famous skyline and landmarks.

Ways to explore

Many visitors prebook their ArcelorMittal Orbit tickets to avoid long ticket lines and secure a specific time slot. Once at the site, two elevators transport passengers 260 feet (80 meters) up to the indoor observation decks. Those brave enough can then descend the 583-foot-long (178-meter) slide with 12 twists through a transparent tube, culminating in a corkscrew of turns and a final drop into darkness. Alternatively, take the elevators back to the ground level or descend 455 steps accompanied by a soundscape installation.

Accessibility

ArcelorMittal Orbit has a wheelchair-accessible gate, step-free access up to the viewing platform, and visitor assistance.

Age limits

Children must be 8 or older to ride the slide at ArcelorMittal Orbit.

What to pack

£1 coin for lockers, small bag

What to wear

Well-fitting clothing, trainers or boots, warm layers

Not allowed

Large jewelry or loose clothing (on Helix ride), smoking, alcohol

Amenities

Lockers, restrooms, elevators

Address

The ArcelorMittal Orbit is located in East London, in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, around a 35-minute drive from Kings Cross Station. It can be reached by car or public transportation from central London.

Driving

There isn’t a visitor parking lot available at the ArcelorMittal Orbit, so driving there can be a hassle. It’s much better to use public transit if you can.

Public transportation

Take the Central line, Jubilee line, or Elizabeth line to Stratford station. Another option is the overground to Stratford or Hackney Wick.

Best times to visit

It’s generally better to come in the morning if you can, close to opening time to avoid the bigger afternoon crowds.

Best days to visit

Weekends tend to be busiest, so aim to go between Monday and Thursday if you can.

Best months to visit

If you can visit in late spring or early fall, there’s a better chance of good weather, but without the peak summer crowds.

Special events

Check the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park calendar before you head over. Annual events such as the Great Get Together in June are well worth a visit.