Sometimes, the actual thought of doing something is way more realistic / achievable than actually doing it. Or at least, in my mind, I’m superwoman and can pretty much do anything. It was until i was at the top of the chute for the worlds longest and tallest slide that the nerves kicked in…
Before I continue, I just wanna let you know that I rode the slide. Twice. And yes, I would do it again. And again. And again.
Still to this day, 4 years after the majority of the London 2012 Olympics took part in Stratford, I marvel at the fact that the area has come 360 and become a destination. Growing up, I would pass through Stratford to get into central london but not once did I ever really disembark the train there to go anywhere or see anyone. But since Westfield and the Olympic Park opened, it’s continued to develop into what I could possibly call the commercial heart of East London.
From the top of the ArcelorMittal Orbit’s in the viewing galleries, you can take in views of up to 20 miles across London. FYI, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is the red squiggly structure in the park which you can probably also see for miles.
Then, you can get to the bottom via the 178m long slide which takes approx 40seconds to descend travelling at speeds of up to 15mph (means nothing to me so I translate this to super fast!) through light and dark sections as the slide loops its way around the sculpture 12 times taking in gentle curves, thrilling (I say crazy) drops and a tight corkscrew named ‘the bettfeder’ – bed spring in German.
Now I’m one for honesty, so if the truth be told, I screamed at the top of my lungs the first time. I then alternated that with roaring laughter and giggles all the way down to the bottom. The second time, I tried to be more composed but then I realised I actually liked it more when I was screaming and laughing!
The slide itself opened in June 2016 and was designed by Belgian artist Carsten Holler. The ArcelorMittal Orbit itself was created by Anish Kapoor.
Tickets for the ArcelorMittal Orbit and the slide start from £10 (for kids) so you can take the whole family! There are of course a few restrictions in place (please check out their website for more info) but otherwise I feel like it’s the best way to get a sweat on in normal clothes!
Have you already been?! Would you, even?!
Elle
p.s I was kindly gifted my slides free of charge thanks to Attractiontix.co.uk*, but you know me, all opinions are my own!
I've been up at the stadium loads this summer for work and kinda wanna / reaaaaallly don't wanna have a go!! Do you lose your stomach on the way down?
No you don't actually which helps to make it more enjoyable! …riding this is genuinely one of the highlights of my summer! haha! can't wait to see what you think if you end up going!