Curious about the story behind that iconic needle piercing the London sky? That is the BT Tower. The BT Tower, also known as the Post Office Tower or the Telecom Tower, stands as a testament to Britain’s innovation. It marked a new era in communication technology.
Initially commissioned by the General Post Office, the BT Tower was born out of necessity. It was needed to support microwave aerials. These aerials carried telecommunications traffic from London to the rest of the country. This was part of the GPO microwave network.
Standing tall at 620 feet, that is 189 meters, the BT Tower became London’s tallest structure upon its completion in 1964. It held this title until 1980. Its slender cylindrical shape was no accident. Engineers designed it to withstand strong winds. The BT Tower sways no more than 10 inches in winds up to 95 miles per hour.
Construction of the BT Tower began in June 1961. It quickly became a prominent landmark. People could see it from almost anywhere in London. A question was even raised in Parliament about the crane atop the tower. Reginald Bennett MP inquired about its removal.
Inside, high-speed lifts whisked visitors to the top in under 30 seconds. The BT Tower boasted viewing galleries. It also featured a revolving restaurant managed by Butlins. Imagine dining there. The restaurant made a full revolution every 23 minutes. Meals cost about four pounds. In its first year, the BT Tower welcomed nearly one million visitors. Over 100,000 dined at the Top of the Tower restaurant.
However, the BT Tower’s public access was cut short. A bomb exploded in the restaurant’s men’s toilets in 1971. The Angry Brigade claimed responsibility. The restaurant closed to the public shortly after. Butlins’ lease expired in 1980.
Despite this setback, the BT Tower continued to serve its purpose. It became a vital communications hub. In 2009, a massive 360-degree LED screen was installed near the top. It displayed news and information across London. The screen incorporated over 500,000 LEDs. It was the largest of its kind in the world then.
Did you know the tower once was an official secret? In 1978, a journalist faced trial for gathering information about it. The judge only allowed it to be called “Location 23”.
In February 2024, the BT Group announced the sale of the BT Tower to MCR Hotels. Plans are underway to transform it into a hotel.
Today, the BT Tower remains a symbol of London. It is a reminder of Britain’s pioneering spirit in telecommunications. As you gaze upon this iconic structure, remember its history. Remember its resilience. Remember its contribution to connecting a nation.