Lift 109: a unique journey to the top of London's iconic Battersea Power Station
Discover a unique journey to the top of London's iconic Battersea Power Station with Lift 109, offering breathtaking views of London's iconic skyline.
Image: Lift 109. Battersea Powers Station. November 2022 Photo by Joshua Atkins.
Battersea Power Station holds a significant place in London's heritage and skyline, but for years, it remained inaccessible to the public, piquing the interest of both locals and tourists. In 2022, the Power Station finally reopened to the public, allowing visitors to experience the unique and extraordinary Lift 109. This glass elevator journey takes guests 109 meters up to the top of the iconic chimneys, offering a breathtaking 360-degree view of London's iconic skyline.
Image: Exhibition Space at Lift 109. Battersea Power Station. Photo by Backdrop Productions.
We recently had the opportunity to embark on this extraordinary journey to see what the Lift 109 experience was all about. The adventure begins with an immersive exhibition that provides visitors with insight into the history and architectural significance of the power station. Through original records and multimedia displays, visitors not only immerse themselves in the building's rich past but also uncover its prominence in popular culture, evident in its appearance on Pink Floyd's Animals album cover in 1977, as well as its iconic role in classic films like The Dark Knight and Children of Men.
Image: Exhibition Space at Lift 109. Battersea Power Station. Photo by Backdrop Productions.
One of the exhibition highlights is an interactive multiplayer touchscreen, with a lighting installation above that lights up in response to touch, creating a fun experience for children. Additionally, visitors can use a photo booth to capture the moment and later choose their preferred background for printing at the Lift 109 Shop.
Image: Infinity Room at Lift 109. Battersea Powers Station. November 2022 Photo by Joshua Atkins.
The journey continues to a room, offering an interactive experience that showcases images of London's iconic landmarks while providing additional information about the Power Station. This serves as the perfect introduction to the extraordinary experience that awaits.
Image: Lift 109 inner chimney view. Battersea Powers Station. November 2022 Photo by Joshua Atkins.
To complete the journey to the very top, visitors must climb 39 spiral steps to arrive at the unique circular-chimney glass elevator, Lift 109, where rings of light and a rising energy soundscape guide the way as the lift ascends the Power Station's north-west chimney. Upon reaching the top, there was a collective sense of awe from everyone in the glass elevator as the impressive 360-degree panoramic view of London became clear as the elevator poked its head from the chimney. From the Shard and the London Eye to The Walkie Talkie, The Gherkin, and even glimpses of Centre Court in Wimbledon, the sight was breathtaking.
Image: Lift 109. Battersea Powers Station. November 2022 Photo by Joshua Atkins.
The experience concludes with a return trip down the chimney, taking you back to the Lift 109 Shop, where you can find a variety of souvenirs available for purchase.
Image: Lift 109. Battersea Power Station. July 2023. © MTotoe.
Lift 109 provides a versatile and unforgettable experience suitable for all occasions, be it a family outing, a romantic date night, or a lively gathering with friends at their Sundown Sessions. During these unique Sundown Session dance parties, the glass elevator transforms into an electrifying dance floor inside the north-west chimney, where visitors can revel in the uplifting house sets by a DJ. All this takes place while the sunsets over the magnificent 360-degree views of the London skyline.
Image: Lift 109 Lates Sundown Sessions. Photo by Joshua Atkins.
From the informative exhibition to the breathtaking elevator ascent and the stunning views, without a doubt, Lift 109 offers an exceptional and memorable experience in London. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Lift 109 is a must-try activity!
Location: Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW8 5BN. Price: Adult £15.90, Child £11.50, Family £50.40 (incl. fees). Website: lift109.co.uk
About Battersea Power Station
Image: Battersea Power Station. Backdrop Productions
Battersea Power Station, designed by architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, holds significant historical importance as it supplied power to London from the 1930s to the 1980s, contributing to 20% of the city's electricity, including iconic locations such as Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament. It was once the largest power station in Europe, boasting a massive Boiler House that could accommodate St. Paul's Cathedral. After a period of abandonment, the site was purchased for redevelopment in 2012 and opened to the public in 2022. Today, Battersea Power Station has transformed into a vibrant destination featuring 254 apartments, over 100 retail shops, restaurants, a 24,000 sq ft Arcade Food Hall, a cinema, offices, and versatile event spaces. Various exciting pop-up events take place throughout the year, such as The Battersea Games and Glide Ice Skating, and much more. Click here to discover what’s on at Battersea Power Station now.
