Located on the vibrant seafront of Brighton, England, the British Airways i360 is a modern marvel of architecture and engineering. This observation tower, a popular tourist attraction, offers a unique sky-high experience with its vertical cable car. The glass viewing pod provides panoramic, scenic views of the city, the seaside, and the beach, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Brighton.
History of British Airways i360
The British Airways i360, opened in August 2016, is the brainchild of the architects who designed the iconic London Eye. The tower stands at a staggering 162 meters, making it the tallest observation tower in the UK outside of London. The i360 is a testament to modern engineering, with its sleek design and innovative vertical cable car system.
Attractions and What to Expect
The main attraction of the British Airways i360 is the glass viewing pod. This spacious, fully enclosed, futuristic-looking pod slowly ascends the tower, offering visitors a unique 360-degree view of Brighton, the South Downs, and the beautiful Sussex coastline.
As the pod ascends, you can enjoy a drink at the Nyetimber Sky Bar, the highest bar in the UK, which serves a variety of local drinks, including the award-winning Nyetimber English sparkling wine.
At the base of the tower, there’s a stylish beach building that houses a brasserie, a tea room, a shop selling exclusive British Airways i360 merchandise, and an exhibition about the history and construction of the tower.
Tours and Admission
The British Airways i360 offers a variety of ticket options, including standard flights, sunset flights, and combination tickets with other Brighton attractions. Here are some details:
- Standard Flight: This 25-minute flight is available throughout the day. Tickets for adults are priced at £16.50, while children’s tickets are £8.25.
- Sunset Flight: Experience the stunning sunset over Brighton with this special flight. Adult tickets are £18.50, and children’s tickets are £9.25.
- Combination Tickets: These tickets combine a flight on the i360 with a visit to other popular Brighton attractions, such as the Royal Pavilion or SEA LIFE Brighton. Prices vary depending on the combination.
Tips for Tourists and Practical Information
Here are some tips and practical information for tourists planning to visit the British Airways i360:
- The British Airways i360 is located at the seafront, close to many other Brighton attractions. It’s easily accessible by public transport, with several bus stops nearby and Brighton train station just a 20-minute walk away.
- It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season and for special flights like the sunset flight.
- The viewing pod is fully accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!
In conclusion, the British Airways i360 is a unique and exciting attraction that offers a different perspective on Brighton and its surroundings. Whether you’re a fan of architecture, engineering, or simply enjoy scenic views, this observation tower is sure to provide a memorable experience.
