Visiting Battersea Power Station: Everything You Need To Know (2024)

Battersea Power Station is a newly redeveloped shopping centre on the South Bank of the Thames.

It’s one of the coolest new spots in London to check out. But should you? And what should you do once you get there?

Here’s everything you need to know before you visit.

The imposing facade of Battersea Power Station at dusk, with its four towering chimneys against the evening sky, serves as the cover image. The power station, a prominent feature of the London skyline, is lit up, highlighting its architectural details and the ongoing development around it. The Thames in the foreground reflects the station's lights, adding to the image's dynamic. The bold, distressed white lettering 'BATTERSEA POWER STATION' overlays the top portion of the image, with 'London in Real Life' situated at the bottom, indicating that this is a guide for visitors to the historical site

Battersea Power Station Location

Map highlighting the location of Battersea Power Station in London. The map shows the River Thames with Chelsea Bridge to the east and Grosvenor Road running parallel to the river. Battersea Power Station is marked clearly on the south bank of the river and circled in red, with an icon indicating it is a place of interest, labeled 'Battersea Power Station Looking For Fun Things To Do'. Above the map, in bold, distressed black lettering against a light background, is the word 'LOCATION'.

Battersea Power Station used to be exactly that – a massive power station – on the south bank of the Thames across from Chelsea.

The building has a short history (for London), being built between 1929-1935.

It was decommissioned in 1975 and given grade-listed status, which means that limited architectural changes could be made.

The building sat empty until 2012, when it was purchased for redevelopment.

Battersea Power Station shopping centre, with restaurants, outdoor spaces, and entertainment, opened to the public in 2022.

What’s So Special About Battersea Power Station?

Split-image contrasting Battersea Power Station in 1934 and today. The left side shows a historical black-and-white photo of the power station in operation with its four iconic chimneys against a backdrop of a less developed urban area. On the right, a current color photo depicts the same structure, now redeveloped, with the chimneys preserved, set against a more modern and developed London skyline. Text overlays include '1934' on the left and 'TODAY' on the right, symbolizing the transformation over time.

It’s a unique shopping destination. If you want something a little different than the usual bland and lifeless mall, this place does the trick.

It has incredible history, and much of the architecture has been preserved, making it a cool mix of old and new.

Getting to Battersea Power Station

The easiest way to get to Battersea Power Station is on the tube – it has its own dedicated tube station!

Battersea Power Station tube stop serves the Northern Line’s extension from Kennington that opened in 2021.

Simplified route map of the Northern Line's Kennington Extension, indicating how to get to Battersea Power Station by Tube. Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms are prominently marked with arrows, showing them as new additions to the line. Key connecting stations such as Leicester Square, Waterloo, and Kennington are also displayed. The map has a minimalist design with black lines and station markers on a cream background, and 'THE NORTHERN LINE' is written in bold, distressed lettering at the top

The station is accessible with lifts, but does not have step-free access to trains.

Keep in mind that the Northern Line has several different branches, so make sure the train you step on has the correct end-of-the-line destination (in this case, Battersea Power Station).

So you don’t end up on the wrong line, I like to use Citymapper for all my London travels. It’s the easiest and most intuitive mapping app for London.

If you’re most used to using Google Maps, that works too. I just find it a bit less accurate for London transport.

Getting to Battersea Power Station by Tube

Map indicating the closest tube stations to Battersea Power Station in London, useful for visitors planning their journey. Prominent red and blue 'Underground' symbols mark the locations of Battersea Power Station, Battersea Park Station, Nine Elms, and Vauxhall stations, clearly showing their proximity to the destination. The River Thames is visible, providing geographical context. The map features shaded park areas, streets, and key landmarks. Above the map, 'CLOSEST STATIONS' is written in bold, distressed lettering.

All the stations close to Battersea Power Station are:

Battersea Park Station (Overground & Southern Railways): 8 minute walk
Vauxhall (Victoria Line): 20 minute walk or hop on the 344 or 436 bus
Nine Elms: 20 minute walk or catch the 344 bus (if you’re on this branch of the Northern Line, just stay on one more stop to Battersea Power Station).
Pimlico (Victoria Line): Walk 25 minutes, or walk across the bridge (with great views!) and catch the 344 bus.

Read my complete guide for how to use the London Underground here.

Getting to Battersea Power Station by Boat

A Thames Clippers vessel, branded as the 'Uber Boat', cruises on the River Thames with Battersea Power Station in the background. The service offers an alternative and scenic route to reach Battersea Power Station, emphasizing the accessibility of the location by water as well as by land. The photo captures the boat in motion, providing a sense of the swift and convenient transport option available for visitors. The large lettering 'UBER BOAT' at the top, accompanied by 'London in Real Life' and the photo credit, serves as a practical guide for tourists exploring transportation in London.

The Uber Boat stops right outside the Power Station with its own dedicated dock.

Hop on the boat at any other Uber Boat dock using your Oyster Card or other contactless payment. Enjoy the ride, and hop off right at the shopping centre!

This is a great way to travel, as you also get to see London from the Thames, with the best views imaginable.

When you’re done at the Power Station, it’s super easy to hop back on the boat and continue your London sightseeing (suggested destinations to pair with the power station described below).

Battersea Power Station Parking

Image showcasing parking information for visitors to Battersea Power Station, with a photo of the parking entrance. The iconic power station with its four chimneys is visible in the background, implying proximity. In the foreground, a large sign reads 'PUBLIC PARKING' with a height clearance indication. A detailed list of parking rates is superimposed over the sky to the left, showing charges from '0-1 Hour - £4.00' up to '6-24 Hours £26.50', offering visitors clear information about the cost of parking.

Alternatively, if you want to drive there, public parking is available in a massive garage right on site.

Car parking is not validated by the Station, and you’ll need to pay the following rates:

Battersea Power Station Car Park Tariffs

0 – 1 Hour – £4.00
1 – 2 Hours – £5.00
2 – 3 Hours – £6.00
3 – 4 Hours – £10.00
4 – 5 Hours – £13.30
5 – 6 Hours £15.50
6 – 24 Hours £26.50

Depending on how much shopping and dining you’d like to do, I would plan for at least 2 hours.

Battersea Power Station Shopping Centre Layout & Accessibility

Composite image showcasing the layout of Battersea Power Station shopping centre. On the left is a detailed, colorful map indicating various sections like 'THE POWER STATION', 'Circus West Village', and 'Electric Boulevard'. Icons denote facilities like restrooms and parking, and areas of interest are highlighted in orange. A 'You Are Here' marker aids orientation. To the right, a photo shows an information board titled 'THE POWER STATION' with the same map for visitor reference. The large distressed lettering 'LAYOUT' spans the top.

This is a massive space that will involve a lot of walking. Lifts are quick and plentiful, as are escalators.

If you’re visiting with anyone less mobile, keep in mind that this is a massive mall where everything is very spread out.

There are two main entrances: the north entrance of the Thames side, which features a massive staircase and is architecturally quite stunning.

The south entrance is off Malaysia Square, and has a playground (Prospect Park) right outside. This one also has stairs. If you’re coming from the tube station, this will be your closest entrance.

The entrances on the east and west sides are smaller and are accessible without steps.

Battersea Power Station Shops

An interior shot of the shopping area within Battersea Power Station, featuring a spacious corridor lined with a variety of shops. The modern design includes a high ceiling with exposed beams and an upper-level gallery. Shoppers can be seen walking through, and green plant arrangements add a touch of nature to the industrial-chic environment. Directional signs and escalators suggest multiple levels of retail space. The large black lettering 'SHOPS' dominates the image foreground

Battersea Power Station caters more to high-end shoppers.

There is a mix of high street stores and designer brands, but overall, this mall is not for the budget shopper.

Offers are not advertised on shop fronts (likely some kind of regulation by the owners to keep it high-end), so you’ll have to enter the stores and find their quietly marked sale racks hidden in the back.

The lower-end (but still not cheap) high-street shops include brands like:

Zara & Zara Home
Mango
Boots Beauty
Superdry
Office Shoes
Oseyo

Higher-End designer shops include brands like:

Zadig & Voltaire
Jigsaw
Theory
Polo Ralph Lauren
Mulberry
The Kooples

If you’re looking for more of a budget-friendly place to shop, a better bet would be Oxford Street or Westfield London, which both have a larger range of shops in all price ranges.

Shops for Kids

There are a few kid-friendly shops at the power station – notably the LEGO store – but overall, you won’t find much for children here.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring the kids – there is certainly lots to do! But in terms of kids clothing and toy shops, you won’t find much to purchase that isn’t exorbitantly expensive.

Battersea Power Station Restaurants

Interior view of a vibrant and modern food hall at Battersea Power Station, designed for a variety of dining experiences. The space is characterized by industrial-chic decor, with exposed ceiling pipes and a mix of classic and contemporary seating arrangements. In the foreground, a striking red neon sign reads 'FOOD HALL', inviting visitors to explore the diverse culinary options available. Checkerboard flooring and well-lit counters create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The word 'RESTAURANTS' in large, distressed black lettering overlays the image at the bottom.

Unlike the pricey stores, dining at Battersea Power Station is a bit more affordable.

There are three major dining areas here.

1. The Arcade

A dual-image providing information on dining and entertainment at Battersea Power Station's Arcade Food Hall. On the left, a placard with 'HOW TO ARCADE' explains the simple four-step process for ordering food, including a QR code to view the menu. On the right, a vibrant red placard displays the 'OPENING TIMES' for the arcade, with different hours listed for each day of the week. The background of both images shows a blurred bar area, suggesting a lively and casual dining atmosphere. The word 'ARCADE' in distressed black lettering is prominently superimposed at the bottom.

This is Battersea Power Station’s version of a food hall. There are a variety of restaurants, but you don’t have to go from place to place to order different things.

All you need to do is grab a seat in the beautifully-decorated art-deco style dining room, scan the QR code with your phone, and order whatever you want!

The restaurants will bring everything to your table. It’s the easiest and most efficient food hall ever.

Prices are generally a bit lower in the arcade than in some other restaurants on the property, but costs vary per restaurant. Everything will be listed on your menu.

2. Restaurants Inside the Power Station

There’s a variety of restaurants inside the power station, from a cheeky Nandos to higher-end options.

These spots are spread out all over the mall, but you can use the website or the on-site digital maps to navigate to whatever food you’re in the mood for.

3. Restaurants at Circus West Village & Electric Boulevard

The streets surrounding Battersea Power Station extend the shopping and dining experience outward.

The two major areas are Circus West Village – to the West of the station, and Electric Boulevard, which you may walk through if you come from the tube station.

Circus West Village has the most amount and variety of restaurants, while there is a smaller selection on Electric Boulevard.

Both these areas have higher end restaurants mixed with bakeries, grocery stores, coffee shops, and much more.

Eating at Battersea Power Station on a Budget

The image invites visitors to enjoy a budget-friendly outing at Battersea Power Station by packing a picnic. It shows a sunny day at the Coal Jetty, a spacious wooden deck overlooking the River Thames, dotted with picnic tables. The London skyline is visible in the distance, providing a picturesque backdrop for an outdoor meal. String lights add a charming touch above the area. Bold, distressed black lettering across the top reads 'PACK A PICNIC!'

If you’re window shopping and dining on a budget, you can still have a lovely lunch.

I would recommend grabbing a sandwich at Pret a Manger or Marks & Spencer Food Hall and walking toward the Thames.

On the river you’ll find the lovely Coal Jetty, which has a massive waterside seating area for picnics.

If it’s too windy or the weather isn’t cooperating, there are plenty of places inside the Power Station where you can grab a takeaway and sit to enjoy.

Things to Do at Battersea Power Station

Besides shopping and dining, there’s lots to do here for the whole family! Here are the highlights.

1. Lift 109

The iconic Battersea Power Station against a clear blue sky, featuring the 'LIFT 109' experience. In the image, a pair of illustrated binoculars floats above the scene, suggesting the panoramic views offered from the viewing platform. Below, the classic white arched bridge spans the River Thames, leading to the station. The image promotes one of the key attractions at Battersea Power Station – the 'LIFT 109' viewing platform

As if Battersea Power Station didn’t already have enough incredible views, Lift 109 takes you to the tippy top.

Travel 109 metres up the former coal chimney to see incredible 360 degree views of London.

Adult tickets are priced from £17, and children from £12.50.

Alternatively, see my guide to the best free London viewpoints for a totally free skyscraper view!

2. Battersea Power Station Cinemas

The Cinema in the Arches is a high-end theatre with super comfy seats, cocktail and food service, and a small variety of films always on.

The second cinema – the larger, main one – is The Cinema in the Power Station. This is a more family-friendly and mainstream release theatre, with your standard popcorn and soda service.

Both are beautifully done and are a great spot to catch a film in London.

3. Prospect Park

A colorful playground sits just outside the entrance to battersea power station. There are climbing and activity areas for children, which makes Battersea Power Station a great destination for families with children.

A lovely free playground for children, thoughtfully designed and a great spot to burn off some energy while shopping.

4. Birdies

A very cool crazy golf experience for all ages, with drinks and food right inside.

5. Bounce

Take your table tennis to the next level with an AI-generated scoring ping pong table! Or play some beer pong, if you’re of age. Bounce offers drinks and food right at your table.

All ages before 6 pm if accompanied by an adult.

6. Power Station Park

A serene pathway in Power Station Park at Battersea Power Station, offering a leisurely outdoor activity option. The walkway is lined with well-maintained plant beds and contemporary street lamps, leading towards a skyline of modern London buildings. The park provides a peaceful retreat with benches for relaxation, overlooking the bustling city. The large, distressed lettering 'Power station PARK' spans the top of the image

Right out front along the Thames is this beautiful park, great for having a picnic and taking in incredible views.

7. The Coal Jetty

A captivating view of the Coal Jetty at Battersea Power Station, now a scenic riverside promenade. Picnic tables and benches offer spots to relax and enjoy the riverside ambience, under the charming glow of strung lights. Modern buildings contrast with the historic silhouette of the power station's chimneys in the distance. This setting provides a perfect mix of old and new London, with ample space for leisurely walks along the Thames. 'COAL JETTY' is displayed in bold, distressed letters at the top

The cheapest way to get a waterside table in London! Grab a sandwich and walk out to the Coal Jetty, which has plenty of picnic tables and seating right on the Thames.

8. Ice Skating at Battersea Power Station (Winter Only)

During the Christmas season, the power station puts on Glide, a vibrant and beautifully decorated outdoor ice skating experience.

What’s Nearby Battersea Power Station?

While you’re in the area, it’s worth checking out these other attractions. Remember to grab an Oyster Card or use contactless payment to make getting everywhere in London super simple.

1. Battersea Park

A scenic view of Battersea Park, with the River Thames alongside and Battersea Power Station visible in the distance, perfect for a leisurely visit near the iconic power station. The park's promenade leads to a beautiful, ornate pagoda, against the backdrop of leafless trees under a bright blue sky. The space offers a tranquil environment for walking, relaxation, and enjoying nature. 'BATTERSEA PARK' is spelled out in large, distressed lettering at the top

A massive green space with lots to do. There’s a boating lake, a children’s zoo, Go Ape climbing and adventure park, and peaceful walks by the bandstand (of Good Omens fame).

2. National Army Museum

Just across the water in the posh neighbourhood of Chelsea is one of the coolest military museums in London, and it’s free!

3. Chelsea

One of the poshest neighbourhoods in London is right across the Thames. Go shopping (or charity shopping) on King’s Road, or visit the beautiful Chelsea Physic Garden.

4. Tate Britain

Another one of the most incredible free museums in London, the Tate Britain showcases iconic British artists throughout the ages, and it’s a short boat ride from Battersea Power Station to Millbank Pier.

5. Westminster

Iconic view of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in Westminster, an essential experience near Battersea Power Station. This historic symbol of London's political heart sits grandly on the bank of the River Thames, captured in this photograph with a bridge in the foreground. The architecture of Westminster is a stunning display of Gothic Revival style, under a slightly overcast sky. The word 'WESTMINSTER' is emblazoned across the image, with 'London in Real Life' at the bottom, suggesting a visit to this landmark as part of a London adventure.

Hop on the Uber Boat and head straight to Royal land! Get off at Westminster Pier and enjoy sights like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and more.

6. Imperial War Museum

In the former “Bedlam” mental hospital building, see treasures from centuries of warfare. This free museum is not to miss, and it’s a short 20-minute bus ride from Battersea Power Station.

7. The London Eye

The majestic London Eye, a must-visit attraction near Battersea Power Station, set against a backdrop of a blue sky with fluffy clouds. This giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames offers panoramic views of the city. Boats and a bustling riverfront underscore the vibrancy of the location. Historic buildings adjacent to the wheel add to the rich tapestry of London's architecture. The words 'LONDON EYE' float in the sky in large, distressed lettering, with 'London in Real Life' at the bottom, positioning it as a premier destination for visitors.

Hop back on the tube and take the Northern Line to Waterloo. You’ll be right near the London Eye, as well as Shrek’s Adventure and the Sea Life Aquarium.

Visiting Battersea Power Station: Final Thoughts

If you want a shopping and dining day out that’s not your standard mall experience, Battersea Power Station is a great place to visit.

It’s not for the budget-conscious shopper, but for a pleasurable day of window shopping and beautiful views, this spot is a great choice!

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Battersea Power Station FAQ

Is Battersea Power Station a good place to stay?

The Battersea area isn’t as accessible by public transport as other, more central areas of London are. But if you want a more modern place to stay, and don’t mind it taking about 30 minutes to get to most tourist attractions, this can be a good area to stay for you.

Do you have to pay to visit Battersea Power Station?

No. This is a shopping mall and there’s no fee to enter. There are fees for attractions like Lift 109 and the cinema, but it’s totally free to enter and walk around.

Is Battersea good for tourists?

The Battersea area isn’t as close or accessible to Central London as areas like Mayfair and Holborn, but it’s still an attractive place to stay with great views over the Thames.

Is Battersea Power Station Roof Garden open to the public?

No. The roof gardens are part of the newly developed flats and are only accessible to residents. You can go up the publicly-available Lift 109 for views over the city, but you’ll need to buy a ticket.

Does Battersea have a tube?

Battersea Power Station has it’s own tube station, simply called “Battersea Power Station.” Battersea Park Station is also in the area, as well as Nine Elms Station and Vauxhall Station.

How big is Battersea Power Station?

The entire site is a massive 42 acres. 19 of those acres are green space. The power station itself is massive, and will take some energy to walk around. The shopping areas are very spread out.

Why is Battersea Power Station so famous?

In its previous life as a functioning power station, it was known for its art deco interior and cool architecture. But in its current incarnation as a shopping centre, its known for an interesting mix of old and new. This makes it an attractive shopping and dining destination.

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