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ArcelorMittal Orbit

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 3 Thornton Street, Stratford, London, E20 2AD

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About this venue

See all of London from the UK’s tallest sculpture, and ride on the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide Created by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond, the magnificent looping structure of the ArcelorMittal Orbit is an iconic symbol of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the London 2012 Games. It’s the best place to see the sweeping panorama of the city

Access Guide

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Introduction

  • Services / facilities within the building include two viewing galleries which provide panoramic views across London, and the world's longest tunnel slide which runs from the lower viewing gallery to ground level.
  • Comments View
    • For more information about access around the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, please view the access guide for the park.

Location

  • There is not a bus stop within 150m (164yds) of the venue.
  • The nearest National Rail station is Stratford International and Stratford.
  • The nearest underground station is Stratford.
  • Comments View
    • The nearest DLR station is Stratford.
    • The nearest overground station is Stratford.

Opening Times

  • Monday 12:00 - 17:00.
  • Tuesday 12:00 - 17:00.
  • Wednesday 12:00 - 17:00.
  • Thursday 12:00 - 17:00.
  • Friday 10:00 - 18:00.
  • Saturday 10:00 - 18:00.
  • Sunday 10:00 - 18:00.
  • Comments View
    • Visitors are encouraged to book tickets online in advance via the ArcelorMittal Orbit website.
    • The venue may also be open for functions and special events outside of these times - see website for details.

Parking (Blue Badge Holders Only)

  • The venue does have its own car park.
  • Venue Car Park View
    • Parking is free for Blue Badge holders.
    • The car park is located to the rear of the venue.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • Parking spaces for Blue Badge holders cannot be booked in advance.
    • There is/are 10+ Blue Badge parking bay(s) within the car park.
    • The dimensions of the Blue Badge parking bay(s) are 370cm x 670cm (12ft 2in x 21ft 12in).
    • The nearest Blue Badge bay is 60m (65yd 1ft) from the Ticket Office.
    • The furthest Blue Badge bay is 100m (109yd 1ft) from the Ticket Office.
    • The route from the car park to the entrance is accessible to a wheelchair user unaided.
    • The car park surface is tarmac.
    • There is not a road to cross between the car park and the entrance.
    • The car park does not have a height restriction barrier.
  • Drop-off Point View
    • There is not a designated drop off point.
  • Comments View
    • This car park is for the use of Blue Badge holders only.
    • Access to the parking is via Loop Road.
    • During events taking place at the venue, the parking can be either limited or not available al all.
    • There is alternative parking available around the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
    • Please view the access guide for the QEOP for more information.

Outside Access (Reception and Ticket Office)

  • This information is for the entrance located to the front of the building.
  • There is level access into the venue.
  • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (towards you).
  • The door(s) is / are double (with one leaf locked).
  • The width of the door opening is 79cm (2ft 7in).
  • Second set of doors View
    • There is a second set of doors.
    • The door(s) open(s) automatically (away from you).
    • The door(s) is / are double (with one leaf locked).
    • The width of the door opening is 79cm (2ft 7in).
  • Comments View
    • The second set of doors are located beyond the Reception desk.
    • There are two identical doors next to each other at both sets of doors.

Outside Access (Lower Viewing Gallery)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located opposite the lifts on the lower viewing gallery.
    • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (towards you).
    • The door(s) is/are single width.
    • The width of the door opening is 101cm.
  • Ramp/Slope View
    • The ramp/slope is located directly in front of the doors.
    • The gradient of the ramp/slope is slight.
    • The ramp/slope is permanent.
    • There is not a/are not handrail(s) at the ramp.
    • The width of the ramp/slope is 101cm (3ft 4in).
    • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are moderate to good.
  • Comments View
    • There are two identical sets of doors next to each other.

Outside Access (Upper Viewing Gallery)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located opposite the lift on the upper viewing gallery level.
    • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically.
    • The door(s) is/are single width.
    • The width of the door opening is 77cm.
  • Ramp/Slope View
    • The ramp/slope is located directly in front of the doors.
    • The gradient of the ramp/slope is slight.
    • The ramp/slope is permanent.
    • There is not a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.

Outside Access (Upper Platform Balcony Entrance)

  • This information is for the entrance located on either side the upper viewing gallery, giving access to the external balconies.
  • There is level access into the venue.
  • Level access is via lift.
  • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (towards you).
  • The door(s) is / are single.
  • The width of the door opening is 75cm (2ft 6in).
  • Comments View
    • There are two sets of identical doors, on either side of the upper viewing gallery.

Outside Access (Main Exit)

  • This information is for the entrance located to the rear right of the structure.
  • There is level access into the venue.
  • The main door(s) open(s) away from you (push).
  • The door(s) is / are single.
  • The door(s) is / are heavy.
  • The width of the door opening is 108cm (3ft 7in).
  • Second set of doors View
    • There is a small raised threshold in the doorway.
  • Comments View
    • The entrance overcomes the turnstiles.
    • There is a member of staff to provide assitance when needed.
    • The turnstiles have a maximum width of 55cm.

Other Floors (Upper to Lower Viewing Gallery - Internal)

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are 1 and 2.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • The steps are clearly marked.
    • The steps are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • There is a landing.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • Comments View
    • These steps can be bypassed by the lift.

Other Floors (Orbit)

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are G, 1 and 2.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • The steps are clearly marked.
    • The steps are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • There is a landing.
  • Comments View
    • The steps are one way so can only be used to descend from the lower viewing gallery to the base of the structure.
    • There are 431 steps in total (clearly stated at the top).
    • The steps are arranged in blocks of 12, with landings in between each block (the first block only has 11 steps).
    • There is a slight ramp, with handrails on both sides at the bottom of the steps.
    • There are speakers on the right hand side of the steps going down.
    • The speakers play a variety of sounds which can or could be heard in everyday life in East London and during the 2012 Olympics, such as construction noise, the cries of market traders, birdsong at local nature reserves, and crowds at football matches.
    • The width of the stairs is 108cm, and there is a turnstile at the bottom with a width of 58cm.
    • These steps can by bypassed using the lift.

Reception (Ticket Office)

  • The desk/counter is 5m (5yd 1ft) from the first set of doors at the Main Entrance.
  • There is level access to the desk/counter from the entrance.
  • The desk/counter is medium height (77cm - 109cm).
  • The desk/counter has a low (76cm or lower) section.
  • The lighting levels are good.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system.

Other Floors (Upper to Lower Viewing Gallery - External)

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are 1 and 2.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • The steps are clearly marked.
    • The steps are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • There is a landing.
  • Comments View
    • The steps are arranged in blocks of 12, with landings in between.

Inside Access

  • There is level access to the service(s).
  • There is not a hearing assistance system.
  • This venue does not play background music.
  • Motorised scooters are welcomed in public parts of the venue.
  • The lighting levels are varied.
  • Comments View
    • There are members of staff located outside the lift on the ground level, inside the lift, and on the lower and upper platforms to provide assistance.
    • There is a lowered touch screen on the lower platform with accessible software on the touch screen and a member of staff can provide assistance.
    • There is a tactile model of the ArcelorMittal Orbit on the upper platform.
    • Due to fire evacuation procedures, only 3 wheelchair users can be allowed on the platforms at any one time.
    • The viewing galleries can be set out with tables and chairs to host functions (photograph 6), however, this would not be during normal public opening hours.

Lift

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located beneath the Orbit.
  • The lift is a standard lift.
  • The floors which are accessible by this lift are G, 1 and 2.
  • Wall mounted information boards are provided at lift landings.
  • The lift is approximately 43m (47yd 1in) from the second set of doors at the Main Entrance.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The clear door width is 115cm (3ft 9in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 160cm x 210cm (5ft 3in x 6ft 11in).
  • There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
  • There is not a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
  • The lift does have a visual floor indicator.
  • The lift does have an audible announcer.
  • The controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
  • The lift does have Braille markings.
  • The lift does have tactile markings.
  • The lighting level in the lift is good.
  • Comments View
    • There is a member of staff located in or outside the lift on all floors to provide assitance and information about the Orbit.

Toilet with Adaptations (Male - Left Hand Transfer)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 15m (16yd 1ft) from the lift.
    • This accessible toilet is located to the right as you enter the lower viewing gallery from the lift.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
    • This is by lift.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is not a shared toilet.
    • This is a male toilet. The female accessible toilet is located on the opposite side of the lower viewing gallery.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a lever twist.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 85cm (2ft 9in).
    • The door is easy to open.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 145cm x 210cm (4ft 9in x 6ft 11in).
    • There is sufficient turning space in the cubicle for a wheelchair user.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
    • The lateral transfer space is 150cm (4ft 11in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a flush, however it is not on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the cubicle.
    • There is a/are sanitary and general domestic waste disposal units.
    • There is not a/are not coat hook(s).
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available for the toilet.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • The shelf has the minimum dimensions of 12.5cm x 40cm.
    • The shelf is at a height of 109cm.
    • The shelf is not located where it is reachable.
    • There is a mirror.
    • Mirrors are placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 47cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer requires hands to be inserted into the top.
    • The hand dryer cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The height of the toilet roll holder is 132cm (4ft 4in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is fair.
    • There is a fair colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is fair.
    • The lighting levels are good.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located within the female accessible toilet.
    • The height of the baby change table once extended is 111cm (3ft 8in).
  • Comments View
    • The door to access the toilet area is hard to open (heavy), opens towards you (pull) and has an opening width of 83cm.

Toilet with Adaptations (Female - Right Hand Transfer)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 15m (16yd 1ft) from the lift.
    • This accessible toilet is located to the left as you enter the lower viewing gallery from the lift.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
    • This is by lift.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is not a shared toilet.
    • This is a female toilet. The male toilet is located on the opposite side of the viewing gallery.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a lever twist.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 85cm (2ft 9in).
    • The door is easy to open.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 207cm x 175cm (6ft 9in x 5ft 9in).
    • There is sufficient turning space in the cubicle for a wheelchair user.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the right.
    • The lateral transfer space is 153cm (5ft).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a flush, however it is not on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency alarm.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is not fully functional.
    • The alarm was out of reach (higher than 10cm (4") from floor) when surveyed.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the cubicle.
    • There is a/are sanitary, general domestic waste and clinical waste disposal units.
    • There is not a/are not coat hook(s).
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available for the toilet.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • There is a mirror.
    • Mirrors are placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 48cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer requires hands to be inserted into the top.
    • The hand dryer cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The height of the toilet roll holder is 103cm (3ft 5in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is fair.
    • There is a fair colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is poor.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located within the female accessible toilet.
    • The height of the baby change table once extended is 111cm (3ft 8in).
  • Comments View
    • The door to enter the toilet area opens towards you (pull), is hard to open (heavy), and has an opening width of 83cm.

Standard Toilet(s)

  • Availability and Location of Standard Toilets View
    • Standard toilet facilities are available.
  • Access to Standard Female Toilet(s) View
    • The female toilet facilities that were surveyed are located to the left as you enter the lower viewing gallery from the lift.
    • The female toilet(s) is/are approximately 15m (16yd 1ft) from the lift.
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the female toilet(s).
    • This is by lift.
    • Lighting levels in the female toilets are moderate to good.
  • Access to Standard Male Toilet(s) View
    • The male toilet facilities that were surveyed are located to the right as you enter the lower viewing gallery from the lift.
    • The male toilet(s) is/are approximately 15m (16yd 1ft) from the lift.
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the male toilet(s).
    • This is by lift.
    • Lighting levels in the male toilets are moderate to good.
  • Baby Change Facilities View
    • Baby change facilities are located within the venue.
    • Baby change facilities are located within the female accessible toilet.
    • The height of the baby change table once extended is 111cm (3ft 8in).
    • Inside the venue, there is level access to the baby change facility.
    • This is by lift.

Additional Info

  • Documents are not available in Braille.
  • Documents can be requested in large print.
  • A bowl of water can be provided for an assistance dog.
  • A member of staff trained in BSL skills is not normally on duty.
  • This service can be requested.