This is a sponsored article on behalf of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
It's fair to say that at most of London's viewing galleries, the trip back down to earth is the boring bit.
A cramped lift ride... a lengthy stroll down the stairs...
However, on a visit to the ArcelorMittal Orbit, you can forget about dull descents. The adrenaline junkies over at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park have only gone and installed the world's longest tunnel slide to help you touch ground after taking in the sights.
Frankly, we'd expect nothing less from this wacky east London art piece...
Designed by Sir Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond for London 2012, the unconventional structure sits proudly within Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, just 10 minutes from central London. Visitors are invited atop to wallow in floor-to-ceiling views of the capital, courtesy of the two 80m high, 360-degree viewing galleries — and boy, are the views spectacular.
You can see all of London from here — from Canary Wharf right through to St Paul's — as well as a bird's eye view of the former London 2012 Olympic venues, like the Zaha Hadid-designed London Aquatics Centre.
And when you're done? You can hitch a ride on the world's longest (and tallest) tunnel slide. At 178m long, this exhilarating journey sees you take on 12 twists, loops and curves as you twirl around the structure at speeds of up to 15mph. Be warned, though — it's a popular one, with tickets almost selling out last year. Booking online is highly recommended if you want to secure your place.
Of course, hurtling down the slide isn't compulsory (though it *is* highly recommended).
Those who prefer to take things slow can opt for the lift, or a gentle descent via the stairs — 455 of them, to be precise. You might not win the race to the bottom, but it's still no ordinary journey: a collection of distinctive London sounds form a unique soundscape to enjoy as you descend.
When you reach the ground, the fun continues at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. It'll be bursting with life over the Easter period, with stunning landscapes and flowers in bloom. Why not kick back on a boat tour of the area's waterways? The kids will love exploring the water fountains and adventure playgrounds too — and the park's dining options complement the shops at neighbouring Westfield Stratford City just nicely.
All in all? It's a top family day out.
You can find the ArcelorMittal Orbit at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Special extended opening hours operate this Easter, with the attraction open from 10am-6pm from Saturday 24 March to Thursday 29 March, and 10am-7pm from Easter Monday 1 April to Sunday 15 April.
