London is a pretty incredible city, and it’s virtually overflowing with awesome activities.
The multitude of things on offer includes the likes of world class architecture, stunning attractions, a 2,000 year history, some of the most gorgeous parks on offer anywhere in the world, first rate arts and culture, incredible music venues- the list goes on for a really, really long time.
But did you know London is actually a great place to get your adrenaline fix? I didn’t believe it either, but it’s true.
There is a whole new type of attraction cropping up in this magnificent city that involves adrenaline and asks you to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
One such attraction is the O2 arena- and I’m not talking about the wide range of events happening within the arena. No; I’m talking about the arena itself.
Book a room at any one of the fantastic Shaftesbury Hotels London, and enjoy the city in style. If you’ve been searching for ‘special offers London hotels’ then look no further than the Grand Royale London Hyde Park; It’s slap bang in the city centre, offers great access to London’s incredible public transport network and is a wonderful place to relax.
Now, if you’re feeling nervous about attempting the big climb, here is everything you need to know before you go- hopefully this will help to calm your nerves a little!
Quick Facts
- It was originally named the Millennium Dome and opened to commemorate the turning of the millennium in 2000.
- It closed just 1 year after opening as costs were spiralling and no one found a good use for the space!
- It did not reopen until 2007! It was rebranded as the O2 Arena and never looked back.
- It has become one of the UK’s most popular music venues, and is an amazing events space- more than 60 million people have visited since its reopening.
- In 2015 the space was named the world’s most visited venue for the 8th year in a row! During that time it served more than 600,000 pints of beer!
Getting There
Getting to the O2 Arena is actually very easy, and can be accessed in a number of ways.
The Tube
The Underground is pretty much the best way to get around the city- and this remains true for the O2 as well.
Hop on the Jubilee Line and head to North Greenwich Station and that’s pretty much it!.
It’s an easy journey, so easy in fact that several artists like Rod Stewart, Rihanna and Jay-Z have all used the tube as their means of transport to a gig!
By Car
If you’re driving then head for the Blackwall Tunnel and follow the signs to the O2.
By Boat
You can actually arrive in style by using one of the city’s awesome river taxis. Cruise the Thames, enjoy the sights and get where you’re going! It’s a win-win!
Jump on any river taxi and head for North Greenwich Pier.
And By Cable Car…
Yes, you did read that right… You can access the O2 Arena by cable car- most people at this point are surprised that London even has a cable car!
The IFS Cloud Cable Car runs from the Royal Docks in Docklands, over the Thames and straight onto the Greenwich Peninsula, just a 10 minute walk from the O2.
The Cost
There is a huge range on offer including a sunset climb, a twilight climb, a celebration climb that includes a bottle of bubbly; and even a climb and dine option!
The most basic ticket starts at £35 and obviously the climb packages are a little more pricey!
What to Expect
If you’re trying to push yourself a little, and you’ve never done anything like this before then good on you! But you may be wondering what is in store for you in the build up to this awesome activity.
Let’s take a look at what will happen when you do your climb.
Prepping for the Ascent
It will start with all the boring stuff.
First off is the paperwork: waivers, signed documents, tick boxes- all that sort of stuff.
Next up your guide will give you a safety talk, taking you through all the scenarios and safety procedures.
Then you’ll be fitted with a boiler suit and a harness, and you’re ready to go!
The Ascent
The climb is not overly difficult- in fact they say that an 8 year old can complete it with relative ease.
There is a steep 28° degree incline so you may feel a bit of a burn in the quads, but you are securely fastened, and the surface is very grippy.
There will be a photographer en route taking pictures that can be purchased when you are back on solid ground.
The Top
Once at the top you’ll find a stunning viewing platform and one of the most staggering views of London’s city centre.
You’ll have time to grab some pictures, get a few selfies and take in the awe inspiring beauty of this unique view.
If you’ve booked the celebration package then you’ll be able to enjoy your chilled bottle of bubble with one of the best views of London you could possibly imagine.
The Descent
The descent is often the hardest part of the trip. Walking for a period of time down a consistent slope is not as easy as it sounds. It can be tough on the joints, and for those afraid of heights this can often be the worst part.
But the adrenaline coursing through your veins will help you down with no problem, and the smile you’ll have at the end will last for the rest of your London trip!
Why Climb the O2?
Maybe you’re looking to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Maybe you’re trying to learn new skills; or perhaps you just wanted to do something to make this trip extra memorable.
Whatever the reason, climbing the O2 is a totally unique experience, and is something you’ll look back on with great fondness.
The best part of the whole experience will be returning to your luxury room at the Park Grand London Kensington to spend a blissful night in peace and comfort.
