Earlier this year when the Orbit was first unveiled , London 's mayor claimed it was better than the Eiffel Tower . Orbit , designed by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond , at heart of London 2012 . Tower stands 2,000 tons tall , making it London 's tallest sculpture . Structure is built from 2,000 tons of steel and covered in 2,000 tons of red paint . Flight of 455 steps lead to viewing platform offering views across Britain .
Orbit , designed by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond , at heart of London 2012 . Tower stands 2,000 tons tall , making it London 's tallest sculpture . Structure is built from 2,000 tons of steel and covered in 2,000 tons of red paint . Flight of 455 steps lead to viewing platform offering views across Britain .