Opened in 1855 as the centrepiece of the former Metropolitan Cattle Market, the seven storey Clock Tower offers magnificent views over London. The tower and the market’s impressive railings – built to withstand a bull stampede – are Grade II listed.

Set in the middle of the 7.4 hectare (18.27 acre) Caledonian Park (originally named Copenhagen Fields) which has a rich history – it was used variously as a place for sports and leisure, and as a cattle market and popular flea market.

It was also a place of political dissent and demonstration. Around 100,000 people gathered at this spot to march on Parliament in 1834 in support of the Tolpuddle Martyrs.

Spaces are limited to ensure social distancing. Health and safety: Before your visit please read the information below carefully to ensure you are familiar with our health and safety requirements and arrive suitably prepared.

When you arrive you will be required to complete a health and safety disclaimer before you climb.

Visitors wishing to climb the 178 steps to the top of the clock tower need to have a reasonable level of fitness, must be able to walk unaided and should be confident with heights and being in confined spaces.

Most of the climb is up narrow ladder staircases.

We want you to enjoy your visit but for your protection the following are brought to your attention:

Before you visit Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time.

You will be required to listen to a safety briefing and sign a disclaimer.

The steps are steep and narrow, suitable clothing should be worn (no skirts or loose clothing) with well-fitting shoes (no high-heels, slip-ons or flip flops).

Visitors who are pregnant or have had recent surgery or a history of heart trouble, high blood pressure, back trouble, vertigo, or any other condition that may be aggravated by strenuous exertion should not participate.

If you have a breathing complaint such as asthma, please let our stewards know.

Due to the difficulty and risk involved in climbing the tower, children must be aged 10 or over and be accompanied by an adult.

You will need both hands free during the climb, please do not bring anything that will restrict movement or become entangled.

All personal items should fit in your pockets and be placed in pockets before starting your ascent (this includes cameras).

No bags of any kind allow up the tower. You know your physical conditions and limitations, if you suspect your health could be at risk for any reason, or you could aggravate a pre-existing condition of any kind, please do not put your health at risk.

Disclaimer If we have reason to believe that a participant will be putting themselves or others at risk by climbing the tower we reserve the right to refuse entry or participation at any point during the tour. In severe weather conditions we may have to close the clock tower viewing platform.