St George Wharf Tower

St George Wharf Tower Visiting Hours, Tickets, and London Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

St George Wharf Tower (also known as The Tower or Vauxhall Tower) soars above London’s Vauxhall district on the southern bank of the River Thames. As of 2025, it remains the tallest solely residential building in the United Kingdom, defining the city skyline with its 181-meter height and innovative, sustainable design. Conceived by Broadway Malyan and completed in 2013, the tower is celebrated for its cylindrical form, panoramic views, and cutting-edge environmental features, including a prominent rooftop wind turbine powering communal spaces. While interior access is exclusive to residents, the tower’s striking silhouette and the bustling St George Wharf development surrounding it make this a compelling destination for those interested in London’s modern architecture and riverside regeneration.

Visitors can experience a revitalized riverside setting with landscaped promenades, public courtyards, and a variety of cafés and restaurants—all seamlessly integrated with historic and cultural landmarks nearby. Excellent transport options, including Vauxhall Underground, mainline rail, and riverboat services, further enhance accessibility. This guide delivers detailed information on visiting hours, accessibility, practical tips, and highlights nearby attractions, ensuring an enriching visit to this landmark and its vibrant neighborhood.

For further details on its architecture and visiting information, see Broadway Malyan - St George Wharf Project and Visit London - Vauxhall and Nine Elms.

Introduction
About St George Wharf Tower
Visiting Hours and Access
Accessibility and Transport
Visitor Experience & Tips
Facilities and Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Special Events and Tours
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action
References and External Resources

About St George Wharf Tower

Completed in 2013, St George Wharf Tower is a striking example of modern urban architecture and sustainable design. Designed by Broadway Malyan, its 50 storeys house 238 luxury apartments, all offering sweeping city views. The tower’s cylindrical shape was chosen to maximize light and panoramic vistas, while also harmonizing with its riverside setting. Noteworthy features include a 9-meter wind turbine atop the building—providing renewable energy for communal areas—and a range of energy-efficient systems throughout.

The tower anchors the larger St George Wharf development, which encompasses 14 interconnecting buildings arranged around landscaped courtyards and riverside walkways. Designed to foster a sense of community, this complex integrates residential, retail, and leisure spaces, and is recognized for its Art Deco-inspired touches, gull-wing roofs, and floor-to-ceiling glazing (Multiplex).

Visiting Hours and Access

Public Access

St George Wharf Tower is a private residential building and does not offer public tours or general interior access. However, the public is welcome to enjoy the surrounding riverside promenades, landscaped gardens, and ground-level retail and restaurant offerings. These areas are open daily and provide excellent opportunities for leisure and photography.

Riverside Promenade and Courtyards: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Retail and Dining: Hours typically range from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (varies by business).
Interior Access: Restricted to residents and their guests; no public observation deck.

Tickets and Guided Tours

There are no regular ticketed tours or interior visits available for St George Wharf Tower. Occasionally, special events such as London Open House may provide limited access to communal areas or sample apartments—check local listings and Tower-Vauxhall.uk for updates.

Accessibility and Transport

St George Wharf is renowned for its excellent connectivity:

Underground: Vauxhall Station (Victoria Line) is a 2–5 minute walk away.
Rail: Vauxhall Rail Station serves regional and national routes.
Riverboat: Thames Clippers serve St George Wharf Pier.
Bus: Multiple routes serve Vauxhall Cross.
Parking: Secure, but limited—advance booking recommended.

All public walkways, courtyards, and commercial spaces are wheelchair accessible, with step-free entrances and lifts serving the main buildings (MyLondonHome).

Visitor Experience & Tips

What to Expect

Visitors can explore the riverside walks, landscaped gardens, and a variety of eateries. The promenade offers stunning views of the Thames, Westminster, and Battersea Power Station. The area is safe, vibrant, and family-friendly, with ample opportunities for photography—especially at sunrise, sunset, and during the evening when the tower is beautifully illuminated.

Practical Tips

Best Viewing: For iconic photos, use the riverside path or vantage points from Vauxhall Bridge.
Dining: Enjoy riverside restaurants and cafés such as Young’s Riverside Bar & Restaurant, Aqua River Brassiere, and a selection of coffee shops and convenience stores.
Safety: The area is secure, but always be mindful of personal belongings and stay on well-lit paths at night.
Weather: London’s weather can be unpredictable—bring appropriate clothing for riverside walks.

Facilities and Amenities

24-Hour Concierge and Security: For residents and building security.
Retail & Services: On-site supermarkets (Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose), pharmacy, NHS GP, dental clinic, hairdressers.
Wellness: Spa, gym, and fitness facilities (residents only).
Parking: Secure and available by advance arrangement.
Public Areas: Landscaped courtyards, fountains, and riverside paths.
Sustainability: Features such as the wind turbine, London Aquifer heat pump, rainwater harvesting, high-performance glazing, and triple-glazed windows (BBC News, Multiplex).

Nearby Attractions

Take advantage of St George Wharf’s location to explore nearby destinations:

Vauxhall Park: A green oasis ideal for relaxation and views.
Battersea Power Station: Iconic historic site, now home to shops, dining, and entertainment.
Tate Britain: One of London’s premier art galleries.
The Oval: Famous cricket ground nearby.
Nine Elms: A fast-evolving area with restaurants, bars, and cultural venues.

Special Events and Tours

While regular guided tours are not available, occasional events such as London Open House may offer limited access to communal areas. Local walking tours often include St George Wharf Tower as a highlight of the Vauxhall and Nine Elms regeneration area.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can visitors access the interior or rooftop of St George Wharf Tower?
A: No, only residents and their guests may access private areas. Public access is limited to ground-level promenades, courtyards, and commercial spaces.

Q: Are there any guided tours?
A: Regular tours are not available, but special events may occasionally permit access. Estate agents may offer tours of available apartments for prospective buyers.

Q: Do I need tickets?
A: No tickets are required for public spaces or dining venues. Special events may require advance booking.

Q: Is the area accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, all public areas, walkways, and entrances are step-free and accessible.

Q: What are the best times for photographs?
A: Early morning and golden hour (just before sunset) provide optimal light, while nighttime showcases the tower’s dramatic illumination.

Q: Where can I find refreshments?
A: Numerous cafés, bars, and restaurants are open to the public within the St George Wharf development.

Conclusion & Call to Action

St George Wharf Tower exemplifies London’s architectural innovation and urban renewal, offering a unique destination for admirers of modern design and riverside culture. While interior access is reserved for residents, the surrounding promenades, gardens, and eateries create a welcoming public realm for all visitors.

For the latest updates on visiting arrangements, special tours, and events, consult official resources and local event listings. To enrich your visit, download the Audiala app for curated walking tours, audio guides, and insider tips on St George Wharf Tower and other architectural landmarks in London. Stay connected with us on social media and share your #AudialaLondon experiences!