The Shard: London's Iconic Sky-High Landmark
Experience London’s skyline from the UK’s tallest building with breathtaking 360-degree views and modern luxury at The Shard.
Rising 310 meters above London Bridge, The Shard is the tallest building in the UK and offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of London from its observation decks on floors 68, 69, and 72. Designed by Renzo Piano, this architectural marvel combines luxury dining, office spaces, and a public viewing experience with an open-air skydeck. Visitors can spot famous landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Thames, and St. Paul's Cathedral, making it a must-visit attraction for panoramic city vistas and modern design.
A brief summary to The Shard
- 32 London Bridge St, London, SE1 9SG, GB
- +443444997222
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to avoid queues and secure your preferred time slot.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and softer light for photography.
- Dress warmly, especially if you plan to visit the open-air skydeck on floor 72, which is exposed to the elements.
- Take advantage of the digital telescopes and interactive guides to learn about the landmarks visible from the viewing platforms.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2.5 hours for your visit to fully enjoy the views, bars, and photo opportunities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to London Bridge Station, which is a 2-minute walk from The Shard. The Northern and Jubilee lines serve this station with frequent trains. Tickets cost £2.40–£6.00 depending on zones and time of day, and the journey time from central London stations like Waterloo or Bank is approximately 10–15 minutes.
-
Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near The Shard, including routes 17, 21, 35, 40, 43, 47, 48, 141, and 149. Bus travel times vary depending on traffic but generally take 20–40 minutes from central London areas. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.75 per trip.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to The Shard typically takes 15–30 minutes depending on traffic. Fares range from £10 to £25. Note that traffic congestion can affect travel time, especially during peak hours.
-
Walking
If you are near the South Bank or London Bridge area, walking to The Shard is feasible and enjoyable, taking about 10–20 minutes over mostly flat terrain. This option allows you to appreciate the riverside views and nearby attractions en route.
The Shard location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about The Shard
A Towering Symbol of Modern London
The Shard, soaring 310 meters (1,016 feet) into the London skyline, stands as the tallest building in the United Kingdom and one of the tallest in Europe. Designed by the acclaimed Italian architect Renzo Piano, its sleek glass façade tapers to a sharp point, resembling a shard of glass piercing the sky. Since its completion, The Shard has become a defining symbol of London’s ambition and architectural innovation, blending office spaces, luxury residences, restaurants, and a public viewing gallery into a single vertical city.Unrivaled Panoramic Views from the Sky
Visitors ascend swiftly via high-speed lifts to the observation decks on floors 68, 69, and the open-air skydeck on floor 72. From these vantage points, you can enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree views stretching up to 40 miles on clear days. Iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Thames River winding through the city, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace come into sharp focus. The open-air skydeck offers a unique sensory experience, exposing you to the elements while surrounded by safety glass panels.Experiencing The Shard Beyond the Views
Beyond the observation decks, The Shard houses world-class dining venues and luxury accommodations, including the Shangri-La Hotel. The building’s interior spaces reflect modern elegance and provide a dynamic mix of business and leisure environments. The viewing gallery features digital telescopes with interactive touchscreens, allowing visitors to zoom in on and learn about over 200 London landmarks. The experience is enhanced by plaques around the viewing platforms that help identify key sights.Visiting Details and Atmosphere
The Shard is open daily with seasonal variations in opening hours, typically from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM during summer and shorter hours in winter. Last entry is usually one hour before closing. Visits generally last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, allowing ample time to explore the decks, take photographs, and enjoy refreshments. The venue includes bars and snack options on the upper floors. The building’s restrooms are notable for their glass walls with clever privacy design. Evening visits offer spectacular views of London’s illuminated skyline.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 32 London Bridge Street, The Shard is adjacent to London Bridge Station, making it highly accessible by public transport. The surrounding Southwark area offers additional attractions and dining options, complementing a visit to The Shard. The building’s striking silhouette is a prominent feature along the Thames, visible from many parts of the city, inviting visitors to explore both inside and around this architectural landmark.Memorable Moments at the Top
Whether you arrive at sunrise, sunset, or nightfall, The Shard offers a captivating perspective on London’s ever-changing cityscape. The interplay of natural light and urban illumination creates a dynamic atmosphere, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation alike. The blend of modern design, breathtaking views, and immersive experiences makes The Shard a singular destination for visitors seeking to see London from a new height.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Custom House
0.6 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.6 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Southwark Bridge
0.7 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
Wakefield Tower
0.8 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Historic England
0.8 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.8 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Trinity Church Square
0.8 km
Discover the serenity of Trinity Church Square in London, a historic oasis of beauty and tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape.
113 Cannon St
0.8 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
St Mary Abchurch
0.8 km
Wren's intimate masterpiece crowned by a celestial dome and adorned with Grinling Gibbons' finest carvings.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.8 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
Tower of London
0.8 km
Explore the Tower of London, a historic castle filled with captivating stories, stunning architecture, and the dazzling Crown Jewels of Britain.
Tower Hill Memorial
0.8 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.8 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.8 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
0.9 km
Medieval survivor where Viking legend, plague history, and literary fame converge in a Gothic gem.
Unmissable attractions to see
The View from The Shard
0.0 km
Experience London’s highest panoramic views from the iconic glass spire of The Shard, with stunning 360-degree vistas and luxury amenities.
Lantern Ghost Tours
0.1 km
Discover London’s haunted past with Lantern Ghost Tours, blending history, ghost stories, and atmospheric pub stops near London Bridge.
The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret
0.2 km
Step into Europe’s oldest surviving surgical theatre, hidden in a church attic, and explore the raw, pre-anaesthetic world of 19th-century surgery and herbal medicine.
The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
0.2 km
Dive into 2,000 years of London’s darkest history and face your fears in the UK’s top horror attraction beneath London Bridge.
Hay's Galleria
0.3 km
Historic riverside galleria blending Victorian architecture, vibrant shopping, and iconic Thames views in the heart of London.
George
0.3 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, The George, where centuries of history meet traditional pub charm in a unique Southwark setting.
Southwark Cathedral
0.3 km
Discover Southwark Cathedral’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and cultural ties in the heart of London’s historic South Bank.
English Grounds
0.3 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of English Grounds in London, a perfect escape into nature and culture amidst the vibrant city life.
Borough Market
0.3 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Southwark View Point
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of London’s iconic skyline from the vibrant South Bank’s premier open-air viewpoint.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.4 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
More London Place
0.4 km
A vibrant riverside business and cultural precinct blending modern architecture with iconic Thames views near Tower Bridge.
London Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the historic London Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel offering breathtaking views and a gateway to the heart of London's vibrant culture.
Borough Yards
0.4 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Winchester Palace
0.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Winchester Palace, a medieval bishop’s grand London residence with a stunning rose window by the Thames.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.6 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
0.9 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
0.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.1 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Madison
1.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.5 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.6 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.7 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
2.0 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
2.0 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
St. John
2.1 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Southbank Centre Food Market
2.1 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Wahaca Southbank
2.1 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tower of London Shop
0.7 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
0.8 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Bermondsey Antique Market
0.9 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
The Royal Exchange
1.0 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
1 Poultry
1.0 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
One New Change
1.2 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.2 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Middlesex Textiles
1.5 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.5 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.5 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.6 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
1.6 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
1.7 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Barbican Shop
1.8 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Fashion St
1.8 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nine Lives
0.3 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Old School Yard
0.5 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.7 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
0.9 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.2 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.3 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
1.3 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.3 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
1.5 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Bell
1.5 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Discount Suit Company
1.6 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Dirty Dicks
1.6 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.6 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.6 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Black Parrot
1.6 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
1.2 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Corsica Studios
1.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
E1
1.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
2.3 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
XOYO LONDON
2.3 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
London Best Night Clubs
2.4 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Hoxton Pony
2.4 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.5 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Club 701
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
Trafik
2.5 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Heaven
2.6 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
