
Is this the highest-ever cricket pitch in London?
A once-industrial icon became the city’s most unique cricket venue as guests took to the top of the historic Oval gas holder - an astonishing 11 storeys high - for a one-off cricket session overlooking the legendary Kia Oval cricket ground.
Towering over 130 feet, the Grade II-listed Victorian gas holder was once the largest of its kind in the world. Now, its striking iron frame is being reimagined as The Halo - a new collection of nearly 200 homes offering front-row views into one of cricket’s most beloved grounds.
“These are some of the most unique homes in the world,” said Paul Vallone, Chairman of Berkeley St Edward. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of cricket history. Many homes will offer direct views into the Kia Oval, and a communal rooftop terrace will provide an unparalleled spot to watch live matches.”
Architecturally inspired by cricket grandstands, the design of The Halo features sweeping curves, crisp white metalwork and generous balconies - all echoing the drama and energy of the sport.
Restoration of the historic ironwork is due to begin later this year. Claire Brady of Historic England described the challenge ahead as “the worst jigsaw puzzle in the world,” with thousands of original struts, bolts and joints to be carefully reassembled.
As part of the ceremony, participants from the Surrey Super 1s programme embedded signed cricket balls into the rooftop concrete - a lasting legacy of the day and a nod to the Berkeley Foundation’s £750,000 commitment to the charity’s life-changing work, with England cricketing legends Mike Gatting, Monty Panesar and Chris Tremlett joining the celebrations. With the charity celebrating it's 75th anniversary this year, the event carried even greater significance and making it a milestone to remember.
Guests from Berkeley, Surrey County Cricket Club, Surrey Cricket Foundation, the England and Wales Cricket Board and the Lord’s Taverners joined in the celebration.

Homes are launching from 7 June 2025 and residents are expected to move in from 2028. The Halo forms part of Berkeley’s wider Oval Village regeneration, which will deliver over 1,300 new homes revitalising a former brownfield site at the heart of London.