More about the Battersea Power Station

This riverside power station, the masterpiece of architect Giles Gilbert Scott, Grade II listed Battersea Power Station has taken on an iconic status in the capital. With its huge frame and four white smoke-stacks (two of which were built in 1933, the remaining two in 1955) protruding into the London sky, the construction initially received protests from those who felt the building was too large and would be an eyesore. The simplicity and elegance of its design soon won over its critics and quickly became a proud addition to the London skyline. Since its generators fell silent in 1983, it has fallen into disrepair. The roof was stripped to remove its boilers and turbines but was never replaced. Plans exist to redevelop the sight into a multi-million leisure complex. At the time of writing the building still remains inaccessible to visitors. It can, however, by admired from the outside and still warrants a visit, symbolising as it does the living history and evolving nature of London architecture and design. View it while you can, from the north bank of the Thames at Pimlico or Chelsea Bridge.