What if you could climb one of London's most recognisable buildings, enjoy incredible views across the capital and then step inside a giant snow globe surrounded by falling snow?
It might sound like something from a Christmas film, but it is actually happening in London this winter.
Up at The O2 is bringing back its popular Snow Globe Climb for the 2026 festive season, giving visitors the chance to climb across the famous roof of The O2 before entering an immersive winter wonderland at the summit.
And this isn't an ordinary Christmas attraction. You'll be 52 metres above ground level, with panoramic views of London's skyline and a festive snow globe waiting at the top.
Running from 6 November 2026 until 3 January 2027, the experience is a rather unusual way to celebrate Christmas in London. Whether you're planning a winter date, looking for something different to do with friends or want a memorable family experience, this could be worth adding to your festive plans.
Here is everything you need to know about the Snow Globe Climb at The O2 this winter.
What Is the Snow Globe Climb at The O2?
The Snow Globe Climb is a special winter edition of the popular Up at The O2 climbing experience.
Instead of simply climbing to the top of the famous dome and enjoying the views, visitors get an additional festive experience at the summit.
You'll begin by putting on your climbing equipment and joining a guided outdoor climb across the roof of The O2. The route takes you up the curved structure to a height of 52 metres, where you'll be able to enjoy views across London's skyline.
Once you reach the summit, the Christmas experience begins.
You'll get to step inside an immersive snow globe featuring artificial falling snow and a whimsical winter-themed setting. It is designed to create the feeling of being inside a snowy Christmas scene, with the London skyline providing a rather spectacular backdrop.
The experience also includes an extended 20 minutes at the summit, giving you extra time to enjoy the decorations and take photographs.
According to the organisers, this is the UK's highest snow globe experience.
The attraction combines an outdoor adventure with a festive photo opportunity, making it quite different from the usual Christmas markets and winter attractions around London.
When Can You Experience the Snow Globe Climb?
The Snow Globe Climb is available from 6 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.
That means you can experience it throughout November and December, as well as during the first few days of the New Year.
It is particularly well timed for people planning a Christmas visit to London, as you don't have to wait until December to enjoy the festive setting.
Bookings are already open through the official Up at The O2 website.
Event details:
Experience: Snow Globe Climb
Venue: Up at The O2
Location: Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
Dates: 6 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
Ticket prices: From £44 per person
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
Height: 52 metres above ground level
Minimum age: 8 years
Ticket prices and available climbing times can vary depending on the date and type of climb.
What Happens During the Experience?
If you're wondering what the actual visit looks like, the Snow Globe Climb combines several different parts into one experience.
1. Get Ready for the Climb
Your experience begins at the Up at The O2 base camp, located near the main entrance of The O2.
You'll check in, complete the required declaration and waiver, and get fitted with the safety equipment needed for the climb.
An expert guide will accompany your group and explain what you need to know before heading onto the roof.
You don't need to bring your own climbing equipment, as the required safety equipment is included in your ticket.
2. Climb Across The O2 Roof
Once you're ready, you'll begin the guided outdoor climb.
The route takes you over the famous curved roof of The O2, following a purpose-built walkway that reaches the summit.
The climb reaches approximately 52 metres above ground level, offering a different perspective of the surrounding area.
Depending on the weather and visibility, you can enjoy views of London's skyline and spot some of the capital's recognisable landmarks.
The climb itself is a memorable experience, particularly if you've never tried an outdoor rooftop adventure before.
3. Step Inside the Giant Snow Globe
This is the highlight of the winter experience.
After reaching the summit, you'll be able to enter the immersive snow globe, complete with falling snow and a festive winter setting.
Imagine standing inside a snowy Christmas scene while looking out towards London's skyline.
The organisers have also extended the time visitors can spend at the summit to 20 minutes, giving you more opportunity to enjoy the experience and capture photographs.
It's a rather unusual Christmas photo opportunity, especially considering the location.
4. Enjoy a Festive Drink With a View
If you want to make the experience even more festive, there are seasonal drinks available to purchase.
Options include:
Mulled wine
Hot chocolate
Glasses of bubbly
Soft drinks
These are additional purchases rather than complimentary drinks included with the climbing ticket.
Having a warm hot chocolate while enjoying the winter setting above London sounds like a pretty good way to spend a November or December afternoon.
How Much Do Tickets Cost?
Tickets for the Snow Globe Climb start at £44 per person.
The final price depends on the date and availability, so it is worth checking the official booking page before choosing your climbing session.
The standard Up at The O2 experience offers different climbing options, including daytime, sunset and twilight climbs. During the Snow Globe season, these climbs include access to the festive snow globe at the summit.
This means you can choose the kind of skyline experience you prefer.
A daytime climb is a good option if you want to see London's landmarks in natural light, while a sunset or twilight climb offers a different atmosphere as the city lights begin to appear.
For anyone interested in booking, the official website is:
https://www.upattheo2.co.uk/products/detail/snow-globe-climb
It is worth booking in advance, particularly if you're planning to visit on a weekend or during the Christmas holiday period.
Who Can Take Part in the Snow Globe Climb?
The experience is designed for families, couples and groups of friends, but there are a few important requirements to know before booking.
According to the official booking information:
The minimum age is 8 years.
Climbers must be at least 1.2 metres tall.
The maximum permitted weight is 21 stone (130kg).
The maximum waist measurement is 125cm.
The maximum upper thigh measurement is 75cm.
The experience is not suitable for pregnant customers.
Children aged 8–17 must be booked with the required number of accompanying adults.
Climbers must also be able to follow the safety instructions provided by their guides.
Although the organisers describe the climb as suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, it is still an outdoor climbing experience. You should be comfortable with heights and able to complete the route.
If you have any concerns about accessibility or suitability, contact Up at The O2 before booking.
What Should You Wear?
Because this is an outdoor rooftop experience, dressing appropriately is important.
London can be particularly cold and windy in November and December, especially when you're climbing above ground level.
Here are a few things worth considering:
Wear comfortable trousers: Choose clothing that allows you to move comfortably while climbing.
Choose suitable footwear: Follow the organiser's footwear requirements and wear comfortable shoes appropriate for the climb.
Dress for the weather: Bring warm layers, particularly if you're booking a sunset or twilight session.
Avoid bulky accessories: You will be wearing a climbing harness, so your clothing should allow the equipment to fit properly.
The organisers provide the necessary climbing safety equipment and can offer a jacket if required. Check their clothing guidance before arriving.
Also remember that the climb takes place outdoors. The experience can be cancelled in unsafe weather conditions, including gales, lightning, heavy snow, ice or other extreme weather. If the organiser cancels for weather-related safety reasons, it will arrange a rebooking or refund.
How to Get to The O2 in London
The O2 is located on the Greenwich Peninsula in south-east London and is relatively easy to reach using public transport.
By Underground: The easiest option for most visitors is North Greenwich Underground station, which is on the Jubilee line. The station is right next to The O2.
You can reach it directly from several central London stations, including London Bridge, Waterloo, Westminster and Green Park.
By bus: Several London bus routes serve North Greenwich station, including the 108, 129, 132, 161, 188, 422, 472 and 486.
By car: The O2 is accessible by road, with parking facilities available nearby. Check the venue's parking information and availability before travelling.
By river: You can also consider travelling to the Greenwich Peninsula by river services, depending on the service timetable.
Once you arrive at The O2, head towards the Up at The O2 base camp near the main entrance.
One important detail: the organisers ask visitors to arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled climbing time. Late arrivals cannot be admitted, so give yourself enough time to get there.
What Else Can You Do at The O2?
If you're already travelling to Greenwich Peninsula for the Snow Globe Climb, you might as well make a day of it.
The O2 has plenty of other activities, restaurants and entertainment options to explore.
Here are a few ideas:
Explore Outlet Shopping at The O2: The venue has more than 60 designer and high-street brands, making it a useful stop if you're planning some Christmas shopping.
Try iFLY Indoor Skydiving: If you're in the mood for another adventure, iFLY offers an indoor skydiving experience.
Visit TOCA Social: A football-themed entertainment venue where you can enjoy interactive football games alongside food and drinks.
Enjoy a meal: There are numerous restaurants and bars inside The O2, offering everything from casual dining to more substantial meals.
Watch a show: The O2 regularly hosts major concerts, sporting events and live entertainment. Check its event calendar to see what is happening during your visit.
Combining the climb with dinner or another activity makes it easier to turn the experience into a full winter day out.
Is the Snow Globe Climb at The O2 Worth Visiting?
If you're looking for something different to do in London this Christmas, the Snow Globe Climb is certainly an interesting option.
Unlike a traditional Christmas market, it combines an outdoor adventure with a seasonal experience. You get the excitement of climbing across one of London's most recognisable buildings, followed by the opportunity to enjoy an immersive snow globe at the summit.
The 360-degree views of London are another major attraction, particularly if you choose a sunset or twilight session.
It is especially appealing for people who enjoy unusual experiences, photography and activities that are a little different from the usual festive itinerary.
However, it is worth remembering that this is a paid climbing experience rather than a free Christmas attraction. At £44 per person to start, it is something to plan and budget for.
If you're comfortable with heights and want to try something memorable this winter, it could be a lovely addition to your London Christmas plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Snow Globe Climb at The O2 real?
Yes. It is an official seasonal experience operated by Up at The O2. Visitors climb across the venue's roof and enter an immersive snow globe at the summit.
When does the Snow Globe Climb open in 2026?
The 2026 experience runs from 6 November 2026 until 3 January 2027.
How much does the Snow Globe Climb cost?
Tickets start at £44 per person. Prices vary depending on the date and climbing option selected.
How high is the snow globe?
The snow globe is located at the summit of Up at The O2, approximately 52 metres above ground level.
How long does the experience take?
The guided climbing experience takes approximately 90 minutes. Visitors also get an extended 20 minutes at the summit for the festive snow globe experience.
Is the Snow Globe Climb suitable for children?
Yes. Children can take part from the age of 8, provided they meet the minimum height requirement of 1.2 metres and the accompanying adult requirements.
Do you need to be physically fit?
You do not need to be an experienced climber, but you should be comfortable with heights and able to complete the guided outdoor climb. The organisers describe it as suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
Are drinks included in the ticket?
No. Mulled wine, hot chocolate, bubbly and soft drinks are available to purchase separately.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Climbs may be cancelled in unsafe conditions, including gales, lightning, heavy snow or ice. If the operator cancels your climb for safety reasons, it will offer a rebooking or refund.
Where can you book the Snow Globe Climb?
You can book directly through the official Up at The O2 website:
https://www.upattheo2.co.uk/products/detail/snow-globe-climb
Experience a Different Kind of Christmas at The O2
London has no shortage of Christmas markets, illuminated streets and festive attractions, but every winter there are experiences that offer something a little different.
The Snow Globe Climb at The O2 is one of them.
Imagine climbing above the city, taking in the London skyline and then stepping into a snowy Christmas setting 52 metres above the ground. It is an unusual combination of adventure and festive magic, and one that could make your winter visit to London even more memorable.
Running until 3 January 2027, it gives you plenty of time to plan a visit, whether you're coming with friends, family or someone special.
If you're looking to try something different this Christmas, perhaps it's time to take your London adventure to new heights.
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