Some visitors simply can’t get enough of all the glorious views to be enjoyed when they visit London. And why not? However, it might be argued the ultimate panorama-viewing experience in the UK capital’s to be had by climbing the iconic O2 building via the awesome Up at The O2 activity.
Yes, while it’s not exactly like enjoying a delicious, sedate meal at The Crescent Restaurant & Lounge, as London activities go, there’s little more adventurous, thrilling and unique as throwing yourself into Up at The O2. So, if you’re at all curious, here’s what it’s all about…
Address of The O2: Peninsula Square SE10 0DX
How to get there:
Simply put, ‘Up at The O2’ is an event that sees participants scale the exterior of The O2 building (the landmark originally known as the Millennium Dome), until they reach the tallest point on its roof; 54 metres above ground-level.
Believe it or not, people who’ve given the activity a go often say they enjoy the climbing activity (thanks, no doubt, to the mixture of built-up anticipation and adrenaline, physical challenge and endorphins) than they do admiring the view atop the venue that’s hosted some of the most famous performers of the last two decades – everyone from Beyoncé to Rihanna to Ariana Grande (whose performances have been enjoyed, over the years, by so many guests booked into 5 star hotels in London West End).
Although you may have your doubts as you read this; don’t be deceived, this activity is 100% safe. All participants go through a thorough safety briefing at the outset, are kitted out in gear that ensures their safety (including a specialist suit, specialist shoes, harnesses and other safety equipment) and, during the ascent, are guided by an instructor along a tensile, fabric walkway. The activity doesn’t involve literally scaling or walking on the roof.
And, even though many participants tend to enjoy the climb most of all, the panorama they’re then rewarded with is something to marvellously savour – affording an unrivalled 360° view of the likes of the nearby Olympic Park, Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Shard building and the entire city beyond.
Granted, climbing The O2 isn’t exactly the sort of relaxing activity (like enjoying spa breaks London) that may be top of your list for a getaway. Yet, if you’re into physical exercise or just fancy challenging yourself while visiting London, why not give it a go?
Here’s what participating in an ascent and descent involves:
Next, it’s a listening exercise; taking in and making sure you understand all the safety protocols you must follow. As part of this, your instructor will introduce you to and tell you all about your safety equipment, before deploying you with your aforementioned specialist clothing and equipment.
True; you’ll be asking some work of your legs because you’ll be climbing at a 28-degree incline, but you’ll doubtless find the challenge lots of fun. A professional photographer’ll be on hand, too, to snap memento pics of you and the rest of your on-the-day team.
In the end, taking part in this activity all comes down to challenging yourself on a physical level, to an extent. As noted, it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. Those who fancy a thoroughly relaxing stay in the UK capital won’t be tempted, perhaps.
Yet, thrill-seekers, the young-at-heart and those into alternative activities/ events may well be. And they surely won’t regret giving it a go!
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