Since 1933, Battersea Power Station has been an icon of the London skyline. Its four turrets, rising into the sky like minarets, are seen across the river and, at its peak, was producing a fifth of London’s power. Following its decommissioning in 1983, the power station became a symbol of South London, and in 2022, after eight years of meticulous restoration, the iconic Grade II* listed structure was reborn as London’s most unique new retail and dining destination.

Now, the landmark that once housed two giant turbines roars to a very different sound, the sound of excitable shoppers who come for drinks, dining and entertainment. Located on the banks of the River Thames, the Battersea Power Station of today is a destination in itself, a 42-acre mixed-use neighbourhood where a day can be anything from shopping and elegant waterside lunches to convivial drinks and pop-up events, all while respecting the rich heritage of this beloved Grade II* listed landmark.

Visitors can peruse over 140 shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and unique leisure experiences in and around the famous building, backing out on the stylish London neighbourhoods of Battersea, Chelsea and the River Thames. Perfect for a shopping trip, a favourite pastime with GCC travellers, the power station is home to major international luxury brands, with Mulberry, Breitling, Watches of Switzerland, Rolex and Chanel Beauty all finding a chic new home in the development. Shopping at these luxury brands is the perfect alternative to other London shopping destinations, with all boutiques housed under one roof in heritage surroundings and offering an impressive range of brands. Other immersive additions include a gleaming Apple store and Genesis – a new automotive luxury experience inspired by the very best of Korean culture.

These luxurious brands sit beside local boutiques and powerhouse stores like Zara, Nike, SpaceNK, Jo Malone London, Le Labo and more. Art lovers will delight in the addition of Clarendon Fine Art, the world’s leading gallery group specialising in international modern and contemporary fine art, whose limited-edition pieces and original works are from some of the world’s most dynamic and talented street, pop, and contemporary artists. At the same time, Curated Makers invites shoppers into the local London community, with shelves filled with unique handcrafted gifts and treats from over 40 local small businesses.

It’s easy to spend the whole day at Battersea Power Station, wandering the riverside cafes, shopping in its glossy stores and perhaps even booking a room at the resident art’otel London Battersea Power Station – a 164 room city escape with rooftop infinity pool, art- filled rooms and JOIA restaurant by Michelin-starred chef, Henrique Sá Pessoa. London’s best drinking and dining outlets are also on offer, seeing you through from 11 am coffees to power (or languid) lunches, cocktails and dinners with over 50 places to choose from. Must- visits include the first tashas in the UK – the chic South African-born brand loved by the UAE and Saudi Arabia. For something that appeals to the whole family, there’s the 24,000 square foot Arcade Food Hall serving 13 cuisines from around the globe.

But Battersea Power Station is so much more than shopping and dining; it’s an icon of the community. With it, the development has access to 450 metres of River Thames frontage and considerable green space, which is activated throughout the year with a unique programme of events. Highlights include the summer-long Battersea Games, The Light Festival, and Christmas at Battersea Power Station, which includes Glide, London’s only riverside ice rink. This summer, Battersea Power Station will host the official Team GB fan zone for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics and The Wimbledon Experience.

‘Battersea Power Station is the new must-visit destination in Central London, which is proving extremely popular with international tourists. We have transformed this iconic piece of London’s history from a derelict ruin into a vibrant town centre, home to an amazing mix of shops, restaurants, cafes and leisure experiences,’ says Sam Cotton, head of asset management at Battersea Power Station Development Company.

‘Battersea Power Station has been designed so you can spend the whole day here, from an early morning brunch to a trip to the cinema, a visit to Lift 109, our unique chimney life experience offering 360-degree views of London, and then finishing with an exquisite dinner at one of the neighbourhood’s restaurants. With our ever-changing programme of events, brand pop-ups and store openings, there is always something new to experience at Battersea Power Station.’

batterseapowerstation.co.uk, @batterseapwrstn

Sign up for the latest travel news, reviews, inspiration and so much more from the Middle East and beyond straight to your inbox.