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
Great experience, enjoyable journey meeting staff and going up through various lifts. The whole environment has s well decorated and very welcoming. The panoramic view is breathtaking and I went at sunset sun got some fantastic photos and videos. Refreshments, accessibility and toilets all on hand with a very tasteful gift shop that even has you in a photo. Highly recommended.
John Maher - a week ago
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 it’s not included in your ticket. On Mondays and Tuesdays it’s 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 😁
Lucas Edelmann - a month ago
This was a really great place to visit. Even on a cloudy day the views are fantastic. Plus if the weather is poor, you get a voucher for a free revisit by the end of the year.
The place is well staffed, as are the bars, and the guides are friendly and well informed.
The lifts up and down are really fast, which in itself is part of the experience.
Recommended.
James Heaphy - 2 weeks ago
What a lovely experience and view! Book in advance and get there on time. A great experience is waiting for you on the 72nd floor!! The only thing I didn't like is the way they rushed the drinks at the end. They need to tell you in advance that if you buy a drink it has to be finished by a certain time. It felt like we were rushed out of there.
5 stars for the view.
Bena Roberts - in the last week
I would have increased one more star. Unfortunately this extremely excellent architecture is not very senior citizen friendly. Nonetheless it was a pleasure experiencing this outstanding piece of architecture.
H Sekhar (HS) - a week 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.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near The Shard:
Photo Gallery
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People enjoying the spectacular view from the viewing platform of the Shard cc licensed photo by Martin Pettitt -
A dramatic view of The Shard looking up from the ground cc licensed photo by Romano -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: timo_w2s - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: itmpa - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Martin Pettitt - cc license via Flickr
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