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The View from The Shard

Experience London’s highest panoramic views from the iconic glass spire of The Shard, with stunning 360-degree vistas and luxury amenities.

4.6

The View from The Shard offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of London from the tallest building in the UK. Located at 32 London Bridge Street, this iconic observation deck spans three levels, including an open-air skydeck nearly 1,000 feet above the city. Visitors can see famous landmarks up to 40 miles away, enjoy a glass of champagne, and capture stunning photos of London’s skyline day or night.

A brief summary to The View from The Shard

  • 32 London Bridge St, London, SE1 9SG, GB
  • +443444997222
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Thursday 11 am-7 pm
  • Friday 11 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Book timed tickets in advance to secure your preferred entry slot and avoid waiting.
  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon on weekdays for fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Consider a sunset visit to capture dramatic lighting and see London transform as city lights come on.
  • Take advantage of the weather guarantee and claim a free return ticket if visibility is poor during your visit.
  • Explore the open-air skydeck on level 72 for an exhilarating experience exposed to the elements.
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Getting There

  • Underground

    Take the London Underground to London Bridge Station, served by the Northern and Jubilee lines. From the station, it’s a 2-minute walk to The Shard. Trains run frequently, and tickets cost between £2.40 and £5.00 depending on zones and time of day. The station is fully accessible.

  • National Rail

    London Bridge Railway Station is served by Southern and Southeastern trains from various London and regional destinations. The Shard is a short walk from the station. Ticket prices vary by route, typically starting around £5.00 for short journeys. Accessibility features are available at the station.

  • Bus

    Multiple London bus routes stop near London Bridge Station, including routes 43, 48, and 141. Bus journeys typically take 15–30 minutes from central London depending on traffic. A contactless payment card or Oyster card can be used for fares.

  • Taxi / Ride-share

    Black cabs and ride-share services like Uber can drop you directly at The Shard’s entrance on London Bridge Street. Travel time varies with traffic, typically 15–30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £25 depending on distance and time.

The View from The Shard location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Cold Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The View from The Shard

An Architectural Marvel Towering Over London

The Shard, completed in 2012, stands at 306 meters (1,016 feet), making it the tallest building in the United Kingdom and one of the tallest in Europe. Its design, inspired by the spires of London churches and the masts of tall ships, pierces the skyline with a distinctive glass façade that tapers to a sharp point. The building comprises 87 floors, of which 72 are habitable, including offices, restaurants, a luxury hotel, private apartments, and the public viewing galleries known as The View.

Unrivaled Panoramic Vistas from Multiple Levels

The View from The Shard is spread across three main levels: floors 68, 69, and 72. Visitors ascend rapidly via high-speed lifts to level 68, then proceed to level 69’s triple-height enclosed viewing gallery offering a spectacular 360-degree panorama of London. The open-air skydeck on level 72 provides an exhilarating experience, exposing visitors to the elements while gazing across the cityscape. On clear days, views extend up to 40 miles, revealing iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, the Olympic Park, and Wembley Stadium.

A Memorable Visitor Experience with Luxuries and Souvenirs

The venue combines awe-inspiring views with luxury touches, including bars serving champagne and soft drinks, allowing guests to relax and savor the cityscape. A boutique shop on level 68 offers souvenirs and professional photographs of your visit. The experience is designed to be leisurely, with no time limit once inside, encouraging visitors to soak in the atmosphere at their own pace. The View from The Shard is open daily with varying hours depending on the season and special events.

Best Times and Tips for Visiting

The Shard is busiest between late morning and mid-afternoon, especially on weekends. For a quieter visit, early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are ideal. Sunset visits provide dramatic lighting and a transformation of the skyline as city lights illuminate the scene. Tickets are timed for entry but once inside, visitors may stay until closing. Children under four enter free, and all ages are welcome. The venue offers a weather guarantee, allowing free return visits if visibility is poor.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 32 London Bridge Street, The Shard is adjacent to London Bridge Station, served by the Northern and Jubilee underground lines and national rail services. The area is well connected, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The Shard is part of a vibrant district with nearby attractions such as Tower Bridge, The Monument, and HMS Belfast.

Iconic Status and Cultural Significance

Since its opening, The Shard has become a symbol of modern London, representing architectural innovation and urban sophistication. It offers a unique perspective on the city’s historic and contemporary landmarks, blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge design. The View from The Shard is not only a sightseeing highlight but also a place to appreciate London’s evolving skyline and dynamic character.

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