The Shard

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.

Accommodations near The Shard: