British Airways i360 | Brighton

The British Airways i360 is a unique observation tower and visitor attraction located in Brighton, England, along the city’s iconic seafront. Officially opened in 2016, the i360 is one of the most striking modern landmarks in Brighton, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the South Downs, and the English Channel. The tower was designed by Marks Barfield Architects, the same firm responsible for the design of the famous London Eye, and it is operated by Brighton i360 Ltd.

Design and Architecture

The British Airways i360 stands at an impressive 162 meters (531 feet), making it the tallest observation tower in the UK outside of London. Its design is sleek, modern, and minimalist, with a vertical glass-and-steel structure that tapers slightly as it rises from the base. At its top, the i360 features a glass viewing pod, suspended at a height of around 138 meters (453 feet) above the ground.

The structure of the i360 is supported by a single central pillar, which makes it one of the most innovative pieces of architecture in the city. The tower's design also incorporates sustainability features, such as an energy-efficient lift system and the use of LED lighting to reduce energy consumption.

The Viewing Pod

The highlight of the British Airways i360 is its glass viewing pod, which can accommodate up to 200 passengers. The pod is a state-of-the-art, fully enclosed, circular structure with panoramic windows that allow visitors to enjoy 360-degree views of Brighton, the surrounding seafront, and the surrounding countryside. The floor-to-ceiling windows give the feeling of floating above the city and provide clear views of the South Downs, the English Channel, and, on clear days, all the way to the Isle of Wight.

The pod is equipped with interactive touchscreens that provide information about key landmarks, allowing visitors to learn more about the city’s history and the surrounding area as they take in the sights. There are also a range of informational panels that explain the tower’s design and construction.

The pod itself is equipped with climate control, so it remains comfortable in all weather conditions, whether visitors are enjoying a sunny day or experiencing a rainy or windy afternoon.

The Experience

The experience begins at the entrance pavilion, located on the West Pier area of Brighton’s seafront. Visitors can take an elevator from the pavilion to the observation pod, which takes about 30 minutes to travel to the top and back. The journey is smooth and provides a gradual, relaxing ascent, allowing time to take in the views of the city as they unfold. The lift travels at a speed of about 1 meter per second.

Once at the top, visitors can take their time exploring the viewing pod, enjoying the views and learning about the area from the interactive displays. The views of Brighton’s historic seafront, the South Downs, and the coastline are spectacular, especially during sunset or in the evening when the city is illuminated.

The tower is also a great spot for those looking for a more romantic or intimate experience. As the sun sets, the views from the i360 become particularly stunning, and visitors can enjoy the sight of the city lights flickering on as night falls.

Special Events and Functions

In addition to offering daily rides, the British Airways i360 is also a popular venue for special events, including:

• Private hires: The pod can be privately hired for special occasions, such as weddings, corporate events, and parties. The unique setting offers a truly unforgettable experience for guests.
• Afternoon tea: One of the special experiences offered by the i360 is an afternoon tea served within the pod, providing a relaxing and scenic way to enjoy a traditional British treat while floating above the city.
• Sunset and evening experiences: The i360 also offers sunset rides and evening experiences, where visitors can enjoy a drink at the Sky Bar in the pod while watching the sun dip below the horizon and the city lights begin to twinkle below.

The Pavilion and Visitor Center

The entrance pavilion is a modern, glassed-in structure that complements the sleek design of the i360 tower. Inside, visitors will find a café, a shop, and restrooms, making it a comfortable place to relax before or after your ride. The café serves a range of refreshments, from coffee and cakes to light meals. The shop offers a selection of Brighton-themed gifts and souvenirs, including postcards, books, and locally made goods.

The pavilion itself has a unique architectural design, with clean lines and contemporary features. It is located close to the seafront, offering great views of the beach, pier, and seaside, which can be enjoyed from the café's terrace.

Accessibility

The British Airways i360 is fully accessible to people with disabilities. It has been designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the experience. The pavilion and viewing pod are wheelchair accessible, and the tower’s lift system is designed to accommodate all visitors, including those with mobility impairments.

Ticket Prices and Visiting Information

The British Airways i360 is open to visitors throughout the year, and tickets can be purchased either online in advance or on the day at the entrance pavilion. Standard tickets allow access to the viewing pod, while there are also family tickets, group discounts, and special rates for students and seniors.

Ticket prices generally range from £15 to £30 per adult, with discounts for children and families. Special experiences, such as afternoon tea or private events, may incur additional costs.

Visitor Tips

• Book in advance: To avoid long wait times, especially during peak seasons or on weekends, it's a good idea to book tickets in advance.
• Weather considerations: The views from the i360 are best on clear days, so it’s worth checking the weather forecast before your visit. The attraction operates in most weather conditions, but visibility can be affected by fog or storms.
• Best times to visit: For a quieter experience, try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening. Sunset rides provide spectacular views, but they are popular, so booking in advance is recommended.

Conclusion

The British Airways i360 offers one of the best ways to see Brighton from above, providing visitors with unforgettable views and a unique experience. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, take in the historical and cultural sights, or simply want to experience the thrill of being high above the city, the i360 is an essential part of any visit to Brighton. With its modern design, interactive features, and impressive views, it has become one of the city’s most popular attractions and a must-see for tourists and locals alike.