My second visit to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford E20 was specifically to visit the ARCELOR MITTAL ORBIT, on Saturday 18/6/22. Busy at the time with an event in the London Stadium, but no problem parking in the disabled bays in the London Aquatics Centre car Park, reasonably very close to the ARCELOR MITTAL ORBIT in nearby Thornton Street. I made research and enquiries on this particular matter during my first visit at Q.E. Olympic Park Information Point, Friday 27/5/22. I intended during my visit to brave the slide but it was fully booked up on the day. ( Probably best online, but you can turn up at the booking office and ask if there is a slot for the slide....?) However, very pleased to have reached the upper viewing gallery ( by lift going up), and you are rewarded the ultimate views north, south, east and west of London. Open air balcony too but obviously fenced high over your head. Abseiling was taking place during my visit - a downwards dangling glide down to the enclosed landing area below. I watched two people dare this breathtaking pursuit from the edge ( launch release platform outside on a ledge as I viewed from within the window viewing gallery inside). The experienced guides, assistants were obviously present to prepare / attach their harnesses which are connected to steel pulleys and cable guide lines. A crane hook mechanism concealed within the roof lower the participants steady dangling in mid-air to descend down alongside the Arcelor Mittal Orbit structure. This remarkable structure, worthy of world status recognition, was designed by artist Anish Kapoor in collaboration with Cecil Balmond; and the Slide designed by artist Carston Holler. This unique attraction opened in June 2016. In essence a sculpture and is the U.Ks ๐ฌ๐ง largest piece of public art. The twisted red metal tower stands at 375FT, and with the looping steel bar at the top it is slighty taller than the Statue of Liberty on Statton Island ๐ฝ in N.Y.C.๐บ๐ฒ Unique also in having the fastest slide in the world in 40 seconds descent - a narrow silver steel tube with twelve twists. I decided the slow route down by walking leisurely the 455 steps cage corridor that twists around the tower like a snake. During the walk down I heard football crowd (courtesy West Ham United F.C.) matchday recorded sounds emit from speakers planted along the staircase. Adding to a matchday atmosphere from the London Stadium. Eventually you reach the same area exit where both slide tube and abseil landing area meet - this spacious area all within a fenced perimeter enclosure. Alternatively a lift journey of 34 seconds is also provided to reach the top. But for me, the admiration of the structure itself and a remarkable view from the top makes this a major tourist attraction. I had an informative and helpful talk with the slide manager/ organiser in the upper view gallery. The slide now operates and 'as I was told', on weekdays as well as weekends ( before it was Friday, Saturday, Sunday only!).Fantastic tourist landmark attraction not only in London but world over...a unique structure that in appearance different to the rest, whether considered attractive is debatable? I leave you to decide... At first sight the appearnce of this structure reminded me of a Martian machine described from H.G.Wells S.F. classic 'The War of the Worlds'. Dont worry, no heat Ray attached...safe to embark! Rating from me A1, 10/10. A must visit, if only once in a lifetime...
ย ย ย Read moreMy 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...
ย ย ย Read moreI've always wanted to experience but didn't get round to it untill 31 August 2022 ๐๐๐ฏ๐
Booked my ticket online, think it was about ยฃ1 cheaper online ๐คทโโ๏ธ๐
It was 1x Adult - The Slide and Skyline views ยฃ16.75
1x Child - The Slide and Skyline Views ยฃ10.75
You then book a time slot, your time slot is only for the slide not the Skyline views.
You have the option to use the GoPro to film whilst you go down the Slide.
That was ยฃ15 and any additional ยฃ10. Which they also provide before you go down the Slide.
Other websites give give you option for just the views and then ยฃ5 extra if you want the slide option.
So me and my boy did both.
When you go there they charge you ยฃ1 for the locker which is then refunded once you're done with the locker. Only if you're doing the Slide that is.
You can't take anything with you, not even your phone. Place everything in the locker.
You then go up the lift, jump in the queue. They then put on your GoPro camera (if you've paid for it) elbow pads and head guard. You can take a photo up there before you down the slide ad you can see in my pics.
Then go down the Slide.
Get the refund for your locker at the main desk.
Then you can go back up the lift on the second floor and take in the exceptional views. Luckily the sun was shinning when we were there and got amazing views. You don't realise how high it is till you're up there.
You've also got the option of the stairs to walk uo or down, I didn't bother with that, no thank you ๐ ๐
Lastly, I personally think the slide should be faster ๐ In my GoPro video it looks quick, when you're actually doing, it ain't. I was it was abit faster. But nonetheless, it was still great fun and glad...
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