Historical and Architectural Significance
Battersea Power Station is a decommissioned coal-fired power station on the south bank of the River Thames. It is known for its striking Art Deco design and four towering chimneys. The power station has been a landmark in London since the 1930s and symbolises the city’s industrial heritage. It was featured on the cover of the Pink Floyd album Animals.
After being out of use for many years, Battersea Power Station has undergone significant redevelopment, transforming it into a mixed-use neighbourhood with shops, restaurants, office spaces, and residential units.
The Lift 109 Experience
Visitors start their journey in the Power Station’s Turbine Hall A, where they are greeted with a multimedia exhibition detailing the history of Battersea Power Station and its significance in London’s history.
The highlight of the experience is the glass lift, which ascends 109 meters up one of the power station’s chimneys. As it rises, the lift provides a 360-degree view, offering a unique perspective on the building’s architecture and the surrounding area.
At the top, visitors step out onto the viewing platform, where you get to spend 10 minutes, which offers excellent views of London. On a clear day, you can see many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including The Shard, the Houses of Parliament and the MI6 building.
The experience includes interactive displays that provide information about the power station’s history, the redevelopment project, and the various landmarks visible from the top.
Tickets and visiting
Lift 109 is a ticketed experience, booked in advance through the official Battersea Power Station / Lift 109 website. The full visit takes around 45 minutes, including the multimedia exhibition in Turbine Hall A and roughly 10 minutes on the viewing platform itself. It sits inside the wider Battersea Power Station, so it pairs easily with the shops, restaurants and riverside walks there.
Tips for Lift 109 Visitors
Tickets for Lift 109 can be purchased in advance, and it is recommended to book early, especially during peak tourist seasons. Prices may vary, with potential discounts for children, seniors, and groups. The experience is designed to be accessible to visitors with disabilities, with provisions for those with mobility impairments.
There is an option to have your photo taken before getting on the lift and purchase a copy afterwards in the shop.
