The BT Tower

The Post Office Tower, now called the BT Tower, stands 189 metres above London, with 53 metres of foundations below.  The then tallest building in London was opened to the public by the Postmaster General, Mr. Anthony Benn and Mr. Billy Butlin in 1966, having been built at a cost of £2.5 million.

The distinctive, functional building is clearly visible from most areas of the capital whether relaxing in Kensington Gardens:

Or enjoying a sunset view from the Southbank:

Designed by Eric Bedford, it was to be the first purpose built tower to transmit high frequency radio waves and support the British Telecom microwave network.  Technology has moved on since those days and now the tower is equipped with all the very latest digital systems.

The public used to be able to access the viewing galleries, cocktail bar and revolving restaurant however, in 1971 the tower was closed to the public after an IRA bomb blast.  No-one was injured, but it was decided that access all areas posed too much of a security risk.

The express two lifts, travelling at 7 metres a second, would transport diners to the ‘in place to dine’ in the1970s with all the very latest furnishings and cuisine.  The narrow restaurant on the 34^th floor, operated by Billy Butlin, did a complete revolution in 22 minutes and the view was further enhanced by the curved mirrors in the centre of the room.

The Grade II listed building has been one of the most recognisable sites on the London skyline since the 1960s, but strangely does not appear on Ordnance Survey maps due to it’s classification as an Official Secret!  Under this law it was an offence to take, or possess photos of the Post Office Tower until the mid 90s!