ArcelorMittal Orbit

London, GB

ArcelorMittal Orbit
ArcelorMittal Orbit
Location
London, GB
Category
iconic bucket list
Coordinates
51.538333333, -0.013333333
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The ArcelorMittal Orbit stands as the United Kingdom's tallest sculpture, offering a distinctive blend of art and panoramic observation within London's Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. Conceived as a permanent legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, this iconic structure serves both as a public artwork and a unique visitor attraction. Visitors ascend to its two observation platforms to experience unparalleled 360-degree views across London, encompassing key landmarks and the expansive Olympic Park landscape. For those seeking an additional thrill, the Orbit also features the world's longest and tallest tunnel slide, spiraling down its structure. As one of London's prominent places to visit, the ArcelorMittal Orbit provides an engaging experience for art enthusiasts, sightseers, and adventure seekers alike, making it a compelling choice if you're looking for what to do in the area.

General information

The ArcelorMittal Orbit stands as the United Kingdom's tallest sculpture, offering a distinctive blend of art and panoramic observation within London's Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. Conceived as a permanent legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, this iconic structure serves both as a public artwork and a unique visitor attraction. Visitors ascend to its two observation platforms to experience unparalleled 360-degree views across London, encompassing key landmarks and the expansive Olympic Park landscape. For those seeking an additional thrill, the Orbit also features the world's longest and tallest tunnel slide, spiraling down its structure. As one of London's prominent places to visit, the ArcelorMittal Orbit provides an engaging experience for art enthusiasts, sightseers, and adventure seekers alike, making it a compelling choice if you're looking for what to do in the area.

Did you know

  • The ArcelorMittal Orbit is the UK's tallest sculpture, standing at 114.5 meters (376 feet).
  • It was designed by Turner Prize-winning artist Sir Anish Kapoor and engineer Cecil Balmond.
  • The structure incorporates 2,000 tonnes of steel, 60% of which is recycled.
  • It houses the world's longest and tallest tunnel slide, measuring 178 meters (584 feet) in length.
  • The structure's distinctive red color is a result of a specific paint chosen to enhance its sculptural form.

History

The ArcelorMittal Orbit originated from a competition launched in 2009 by then-Mayor of London Boris Johnson and Lord Coe to design a landmark structure for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The winning design by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond was announced in March 2010. Construction began shortly thereafter, with the structure completed and unveiled in May 2012, just ahead of the Games. After serving as a prominent feature during the Olympics, it reopened to the public in April 2014. In 2016, the attraction was enhanced with the addition of 'The Slide,' designed by Carsten Höller, further cementing its status as a unique recreational landmark.

Cultural significance

The ArcelorMittal Orbit holds significant cultural importance as a lasting legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It functions as both a monumental piece of public art and a symbol of regeneration for East London. Its distinctive, looping form challenges traditional architectural norms, sparking discussions about art, engineering, and urban identity. As an observation tower, it offers a new perspective on London's evolving skyline and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, connecting visitors to the city's sporting history and future development. The addition of The Slide has further transformed it into an interactive cultural experience, blending artistic contemplation with adventurous recreation.

Geography and landscape

The ArcelorMittal Orbit is strategically situated within the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London. Its towering height of 114.5 meters makes it a dominant feature in the local landscape, visible from various points across the park and beyond. From its observation decks, visitors gain a comprehensive view of the surrounding urban environment, including the Olympic Stadium (now London Stadium), the Aquatics Centre, and the vast green spaces of the park. The structure's location in a redeveloped industrial area underscores the transformation of this part of London, offering a visual narrative of urban renewal against the backdrop of the city's iconic landmarks.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch
  • Imported from Wikidata

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