Battersea Power Station

From power station to landmark

The building went up in two halves, A station in the early 1930s and B station after the war, with Giles Gilbert Scott shaping its exterior. Generation stopped in 1983 and the shell stood empty for decades, famous from the cover of Pink Floyd's 1977 album Animals. It was listed Grade II*, and the main building finally opened to the public in 2022, with Apple taking offices in the upper floors.

What to do there

More than 150 shops, bars, restaurants, leisure venues and spaces sit across the power station and surrounding streets. The standout is the glass lift that rises up the north-west chimney for 360-degree views over London, ticketed separately. Otherwise, wander the turbine halls, eat along the riverside and use the open spaces for a stroll.

Getting there

Battersea Power Station Underground station opened in 2021 on the Northern line extension, so it's a quick ride from central London. You can also walk the Thames Path from Chelsea Bridge. Pair it with Westminster Cathedral or Buckingham Palace, both a short tube or bus hop away. Allow a few hours if you plan to do the lift, shop and eat.

Highlights

• Grade II* listed riverside landmark
• Chimney lift with 360-degree views
• Over 150 shops, bars and restaurants
• Own Northern line station
• Pictured on Pink Floyd's Animals cover

Good to know

• The chimney lift is a separate paid attraction; book ahead.
• Battersea Power Station tube station is on the Northern line (Charing Cross branch extension).

Frequently asked questions