The Shard
Enjoy the incredible views from The Shard glass skyscraper, the highest public viewing platform in London
The Shard is appropriately named after the shards of glass that glisten off the beautifully defined elegant looking pyramid shaped building that seems to rise up from the River Thames and peter out into the clouds. The height of this magnificent building is 310 meters (the equivalent of 95 storeys) from base to summit.
The occupied floors reach up 72 storeys with London's highest public viewing platform situated on the top floors. The remaining floors are filled with restaurants, bars, the luxurious Shangri-La hotel, offices and apartments that are strategically structured to give their occupants a spectacular 360° view of the city as well as the viewing platform that boasts breathtaking views that are second to none. Visitors to the viewing gallery will enjoy stunning 360 degree panoramic views reaching out up to 40 miles. There is even a weather guarantee; if you happen to be visiting on a day when the visibility is obscured due to overcast, your next visit is free (terms and conditions apply). It is a good idea to book your tickets in advance from their official website listed below otherwise you can take your chances as tickets are subject to availability.
The Shard had its beginnings in the late 1900s when the government of the United Kingdom began to encourage high-density buildings that were close to transport interchanges. The Shard's part owner and developer Irvine Sellar (whom had shortly before purchased Southward Towers as an investment) envisioned a vertical city to house a multitude of functions. He then sought out the help of award - winning architect Renzo Piano and flew out to Berlin for a business lunch. Though Renzo's first comments were about his disapproval and dislikes of tall buildings, he soon warmed up to the idea, given that the location was superb - bustling with energy due to the railway lines as well as on the banks of the picturesque Thames river offering a naturally beautiful setting. Renzo Piano promptly sketched on the back of his menu a drawing that resembles the Shard building as it stands today.
The light and bright building is the perfect design to give all who use it an exceptionally grand panoramic view. Whether you are inside enjoying a nice meal or relaxing drink in one of the bars or restaurants, working in the offices that are so well thought out that even the blinds automatically adjust to the time of day giving full benefit to those inside, staying in the luxurious Shangri-La hotel, living in one of the high rise apartments or sightseeing from the viewing gallery, you will really enjoy this truly magnificent building.
If heights are not your thing, you can still enjoy the view from the ground up. The way the elegant shards of glass are brilliantly imposed on by the ever changing colours of the sky throughout the day and different times of the year alters both the colour and mood of the building.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes - Note that tickets cost more at the door and are subject to availability.Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK
Phone: 0344 499 7222
Official Website: The Shard
The Shard Reviews
Rated
out of 5 The Shard is a very popular building within 500meters of the Tower Bridge. If you want a great view from the top of London, this is the place to go. I recommend buying tickets in advance (in my case the London pass) and also book a time slot if itโs not included in your ticket. On Mondays and Tuesdays itโs not too crowded and you can enjoy some free spaces on the windows. I you really want to enjoy the view on your own, just go to the toilet. See my picture on that or just find out yourself ๐
Lucas Edelmann - a week ago
If you're going for a great view in all directions, this is obviously better than the London Eye. Its pricing is similar, but you get much higher and in our case, there was no line (monday evening around 17:00).
There's a great atmosphere on the viewing floors. The 'outside' floor also has glass all around, so making pictures without reflections is quite hard, especially in the dusk.
Matthias Rozema - a week ago
Very cool, the grand piano on the observation deck wasn't impressive in terms of sound, and there was scarce seating to enjoy sustenance or a talk with peers. It is a very surreal experience though, being able to see the whole city while having a chat about life and stuff.
Phoenix Plays Games - in the last week
Went to the shard for a quick tea and was a lovely experience, no doubt will be going again, great tentative staff with excellent service and superb views although we didn't go to the top on this occasion. Special place to visit in London with a chance to see most of London from a great viewpoint. Drinks are extremely highly priced but it's all about the whole experience which will come at a price for each person going. Recommended place to visit ๐๐ฝ
George Singh - a month ago
Fantastic. Very little wait outside, quick security check then whiz up the 2 lifts to the tops floors. Pretty busy on the enclosed floor but more space up the upper level where it's a bit colder.
I'd always recommend going about an hour before sunset, that way you can see London in the day time and then warch London night life come alive as the sunsets and the twinkling lights come on.
You can spend as long as you like up there so grab a drink and enjoy the views.
Drinks are typically London prices, not over inflated so all good.
Worth a visit for sure.
David McNae - a month ago
Directions
Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Northern and Jubilee Line | London Bridge | 1 Minutes |
How to get to The Shard by Tube
Take the Tube to London Bridge station via the Northern or Jubilee Line. Exit the station via Joiner Street and look for the signs for The Shard.
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