Battersea Power Station is a former coal-fired power station on the south bank of the Thames, now home to shops, restaurants, bars and public spaces. Its four chimneys and vast brick Art Deco structure make the building the main draw, with a riverside walk for views across the water. For a higher viewpoint, Lift 109 carries visitors up inside one chimney; the visit at the top lasts about 10 minutes, with no space to walk around. Come to explore the architecture, browse the shops or plan a meal in the former industrial landmark.
From power station to London landmark
Battersea Power Station was built in two stages. Sir Giles Gilbert Scott designed the original structure in the 1930s, and a second, similar building followed in the 1950s. Together they formed the four-chimney silhouette that became a familiar part of London’s skyline.
The station burned coal to generate electricity for the city. It closed in 1983, after which the building stood largely unused for decades. Redevelopment brought shops, restaurants, bars, offices and homes into the former industrial site. The power station reopened as a public destination in 2022.
The building and its interiors
The scale of the brick building is part of the visit. Its industrial character remains visible alongside the newer retail and dining spaces. The original station also had Art Deco interior fittings and decoration. Control Room A is among the historic spaces associated with the building, with 1930s dials and a gold-coffered ceiling.
The redevelopment has made the former power station a place to walk through as well as look at from outside. Shops and restaurants occupy several levels, while public areas connect the building to the riverside. Allow time to explore at an unhurried pace; the site is large, and browsing can involve plenty of walking.
Lift 109 and the Thames walk
Lift 109 takes visitors up inside one of the chimneys to a height of 109 metres. The elevator provides a panoramic view over London. At the top, visitors spend about 10 minutes taking in the view before returning by lift; there is no separate area for walking around. This format is useful to know before booking if you expect an open-air viewing platform.
At ground level, the riverside walk gives a different perspective, with views over the Thames. The site is also accessible by river boat: Thames Clippers routes RB2 and RB6 stop at Battersea Power Station. From the boat stop, Chelsea Bridge is to the right.
Shopping, dining and events
The former power station now contains a mix of fashion and other shops, cafés, restaurants and bars. Food options range from quick stops to sit-down meals, with international cooking represented among the dining choices. The Arcade Food Hall is one place to look for a range of cuisines under one roof. The complex is also used for events, so activities and installations can change over time.
You can make a visit about the building, then add a meal, drinks or shopping without leaving the site. Families can also find leisure activities here. Because prices can be high in this landmark setting, decide in advance whether dining or shopping is part of your plan.
Perguntas frequentes
What is Battersea Power Station now?
The former coal-fired power station is a redeveloped destination with shops, restaurants, bars, offices, homes and public spaces.
Can you go up Battersea Power Station’s chimneys?
Yes. Lift 109 takes visitors up inside one chimney to a height of 109 metres for panoramic views of London. Visitors spend about 10 minutes at the top before returning by lift.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore the building, riverside walk and shops, or to add a meal.
Can you reach Battersea Power Station by river boat?
Thames Clippers routes RB2 and RB6 stop at Battersea Power Station.
