Up at The O2
A 90-minute guided climb across the roof of The O2 — 52 metres above the Greenwich Peninsula with 360-degree views
A 90-minute guided climb across the roof of The O2 — 52 metres above the Greenwich Peninsula with 360-degree views
Up at The O2 takes visitors on a guided walk across the tensile fabric roof of one of London's most recognisable buildings — a 380-metre pathway rising to a viewing platform 52 metres above the Greenwich Peninsula. The experience opened in June 2012, designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners.
Climbers are fitted with harnesses and climbing shoes before ascending a curved walkway with a gradient of up to 30 degrees. At the summit, a central platform offers unobstructed views of Canary Wharf, the Thames Barrier, the Olympic Park and historic Greenwich, stretching up to 15 miles on a clear day.
Up at The O2 is a guided climbing experience over the roof of The O2 arena on the Greenwich Peninsula. Originally the Millennium Dome — built to house the Millennium Experience for the year 2000 — the building was reborn as a major entertainment venue in 2007. In 2012, an entirely new attraction was added when a 380-metre walkway was installed across its distinctive white fabric roof, designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners with structural engineering by Buro Happold.
The concept is straightforward: groups of up to 15 climbers, led by an experienced guide, walk up one side of the dome, across the summit and down the other side. The entire route takes roughly 90 minutes including the safety briefing and kit fitting at base camp. Planning permission was granted in July 2011, and the first public climb took place on 21 June 2012.
Every climb begins at base camp on the eastern side of The O2, where climbers are fitted with harnesses, climbing shoes and a suit (glow-in-the-dark for twilight sessions). All loose items must be secured or stored, though smartphones and small cameras are permitted using a lanyard attachment. Climbers must arrive at least 15 minutes before their session — late arrivals are turned away without a refund.
The walkway surface is a springy tensile fabric, similar to the dome's own roof material. The steepest section reaches 28 degrees on the ascent and 30 degrees on the descent, but the climb is achievable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. At the summit, guides point out key landmarks — Canary Wharf directly to the northwest, the Thames Barrier to the east, Greenwich's maritime quarter to the south and the Olympic Park further north.
The O2 itself offers plenty to do around your climb. The complex houses a cinema, bowling alley, over 30 restaurants and bars, and one of London's busiest live music venues. A meal or drink before or after your session is easy to arrange without leaving the building.
For a full day out, combine the climb with nearby Greenwich attractions. The Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory are all within a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride. The Thames Path runs past The O2 in both directions, connecting to the Greenwich Foot Tunnel and the wider southeast London waterfront.
Climbers must be at least 8 years old, at least 1.2m tall and weigh no more than 130kg. Book online in advance as sessions sell out regularly.
Sunset sessions are the most popular and sell out weeks ahead, especially in summer. Check the website early and book as soon as your dates are confirmed.
You will be exposed to the elements for the full 90 minutes. Dress in layers and bring a jacket even in summer — it is noticeably windier at 52 metres.
Late arrivals are turned away with no refund. Allow extra time for the walk from North Greenwich station and finding the base camp entrance on the east side of the arena.
Smartphones are allowed but must be attached to the provided lanyard. GoPros and larger cameras are not permitted. You will want your phone for photos at the summit.
The Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory and National Maritime Museum are all within a 20-minute walk. Plan your climb for morning and spend the afternoon exploring Greenwich.
London Travel Writer · 12+ years covering UK attractions and tourism
Last reviewed: March 9, 2026
