Climb the O2: What to Expect from London’s Sky-high Experience
Did you know you can actually Climb the O2? Most people just think this is where really big concerts happen in London. But, there is so much more to this London attraction! Aside from its use for concerts and Mamma Mia! The Party, the O2 also offers an adventurous activity called Up at the O2.
And, Up at the O2 is definitely one of the most thrilling things to do in London!
It’s something I’ve thoroughly enjoyed doing twice since moving here in 2013. But, it’s definitely not for everyone! Both times I loved the experience and have some advice for anyone considering this as one of their places to visit in London.
Up at the O2: The Experience
This is definitely a London attraction you need to book in advance.
If you don’t do it ahead of time, the first thing you must do upon arrival is sign a detailed release waiver. So, make sure you’re there at least 15 minutes ahead of when you are scheduled to climb the O2.
You’ll have a swift- but thorough safety training first. Your guide will take time to make sure everyone in the group understands the process too.
After watching the training video, you ‘suit up.’ This means taking off your jacket, shoes and packing your valuables in to containers that they store for you during your experience.
As a group you put on your safety jackets and are shown how to link the cables to your jacket and what to do during the climb. Both guides in my experience checked with every single climber to verify their equipment and readiness.
You cannot take any photos while heading up or down. So, your 20 minutes at the top is really valuable. Most people choose to have a glass of prosecco, which they pay for when checking in, if it’s not pre-booked.
The guides give interesting information about the area and view around you. They also assist with everyone who wants a photo. Truly, the guides want you to have the most memorable experience.
Climb the O2: Essential to Know
1. Be in shape. The first set of stairs is fairly easy. But the actual incline is pretty steep. You aren’t going to be able to count the climb the O2 experience as your daily workout. However, if you have a bad back or trouble with your knees, this London attraction isn’t for you.
2. Plan on wearing their shoes. That means you will want to either be wearing socks or bring socks with you to experience this London attraction. You can see what they give you in the first photo of this blog review.
3. Choose and prepare your photography equipment ahead of time. You don’t have much space in the pockets of the gear they give you. And, you must wear it. I brought my iPhone, a filter, my keys, and a credit card/money holder.
4. Plan on wind. Both days I visited were beautiful, sunny days in London. On the ground, the weather was perfect. As I predicted, at the summit their was wind.So, if you have long hair, you might want to wear it up or bring something to tie it up with.
5. Plan for a manicure after you climb the O2. The only way you can get to the top and back down is by using your hands. Every 5-6 feet you need to move your cable attachment through some gears. It’s a little awkward, but you get the hang of it pretty fast. Nails with a pretty paint job won’t make it through that. It’s best to have a spa appointment booked after you are up at the O2. Or- get the gloves they offer to you.
Climb the O2: Is it for You?
I feel you can enjoy Up at the O2 even if you are afraid of heights. It’s one of my fears but I didn’t have a single issue or moment of doubt during either of my trips. The guides I’ve had may have had something to do with this too. The first one had worked there three years and the second for over a decade.
However, you do have to enjoy thrilling activities.
If you are looking for the absolute best view of London, this probably isn’t it. Horizon22, The View from the Shard, The London Eye and Sky Garden probably have this one beat.
You can watch my comparison video below to see the differences.
While this would make a great date activity in London, I went by myself both times. And while my groups consisted of other solo travellers, families, Londoners and couples. On one climb, a Londoner indicated that Up at the O2 was on his list of ’50 things to do before I turn 50.’
Up at the O2: Final Thoughts
So what do you think? Would you put this on your list of things to do in London? What type of activities do you enjoy while on holiday?
Don’t Miss London News!
Save Time! Travel Smarter!
Get the London Travel Planner to visit London like a Londoner!
Save on Pinterest
Climb the O2: 2016 Experience
For fun, I’ve kept the old photos and video I made on the first visit. Try not to judge me too harshly. Hopefully, I’ve made some progress over the years. 🙂
2 Comments