Battersea Power Station’s Chimney Lift reopens with interactive history experience

Battersea Power Station’s Chimney Lift has reopened with a redesigned and interactive experience to mark its third anniversary. The updated attraction, located within the northwest chimney of the Grade II* listed building, aims to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the Power Station’s history before culminating in a panoramic glass lift ride offering 360-degree views of the capital.

The reimagined experience begins in Turbine Hall A, where visitors can explore a reconstruction of architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott’s 1920s office. The space includes historic photographs, architectural blueprints, and replica artefacts, offering insight into the original design and construction of the Power Station and a glimpse of 1920s London.

An interactive wall titled Building Battersea follows, detailing the construction of the Power Station through animated illustrations and sound effects. Visitors can activate elements of the display to learn about the six million bricks used in the structure and its transformation into a functioning power plant.

A hands-on model of the Power Station allows guests to simulate its operations by moving coal, generating power, and illuminating a kinetic chandelier. A touchscreen quiz table, the Current Quiz, offers a chance for visitors to test their knowledge of the site’s history.

A 360-degree film in the Switch Room charts the Power Station’s evolution from a working coal-fired facility to its closure in 1983, and finally to its regeneration as a mixed-use development. The experience concludes with the Chimney Lift itself—formerly called Lift 109—which ascends the northwest chimney, accompanied by a soundscape and lighting effects designed to evoke rising energy.

Renee Moran, Interim Head of Asset Management at Battersea Power Station Development Company, said: “We’re excited to unveil a number of new updates to The Chimney Lift, which offer our visitors an even more enjoyable and immersive experience than ever before. We look forward to welcoming returning and new visitors to the attraction, where they can engage fully with the Power Station’s rich history and take in the spectacular views from the top of one of the building’s iconic chimneys.”

The attraction is part of the wider Battersea Power Station redevelopment, which includes over 150 shops, restaurants, and leisure venues.

Food Desk
Photo: Charlie Round Turner

The Chimney Lift operates daily, with extended hours on weekends and during school holidays. For further information and for ticket bookings, visit the website here.