In 2012, London gained a striking new landmark in the form of The Shard, a glass skyscraper over 300 metres high. However, you will also come across alternative names such as London Bridge Tower or The Shard London Bridge.
The height and shape of the skyscraper
The name of the building is kind of a catch-all. The skyscraper is built in sharp lines converging at the top in a pinnacle.
The architect was Renzo Piano, who was inspired by the 18th century Venetian painter Canaletto's painting of the Tower of London, but also by the masts of sailing ships or the railway lines in the area. The skyscraper is intended to complete the London skyline with its slender lines reminiscent of church spires.
The distinctive façades of refracted glass panes reflecting the light have given the skyscrapers their name 'The Shard'.
The height of the skyscraper is 310 metres, currently making it the 7th tallest building in Europe. In total, you can use 95 floors and 36 elevators.
Observation deck
Of course, The Shard skyscraper also offers a viewing platform, which is logically the highest in all of London and one of the most popular. The public observation deck can be found 244 metres above the ground on floors 68, 69 and 72.
The Observatory on floors 68-69 is indoor only with large windows and will offer 360° views of the whole of London, while on floor 72 you can visit the outdoor viewing terrace. In good weather you can see up to 40 miles.
Admission and opening times
Opening hours vary according to days of the week, holidays, events and months. Usually open from 11:00 or 13:00 to 19:00 or 21:00. During most of the year, it is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
For a complete list of hours, visit theviewfromtheshard.com/plan-your-visit.
Ticket pricing is across the board for all ages and is 32 gbp when booked at least one week in advance. Otherwise, pay 38 gbp.
You can book tickets online at the official website, but there are usually tickets available on the door.
Hotel and restaurants at The Shard
Want an extraordinary dining experience with the best views in London? Then ignore the menu prices and book a table at one of the several restaurants or bars. For a list and booking options, visit the-shard.com.
Between the 34th and 52nd floors, you can stay in one of the most luxurious hotels in London. The Shard, a 5-star Shangri-La hotel, offers rooms here.
Prices per night in a 2-bedroom suite start at 733 eur, but if you're looking for extraordinary accommodation with divine views, you've come to the right place.
Availability & rates - Shangri-La The Shard
How to get to The Shard?
The skyscraper is practically on the banks of the Thames in the new modern district around London Bridge and London Bridge Station. It's easily accessible on foot along the Thames promenade, which you can walk along from the London Eye with a stop at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, for example.
Nearest tube stations:
- London Bridge - 20 metres, Jubilee and Northern lines + many rail links
- Monument - 350 metres across the bridge, District and Circle lines
Nearest bus stops:
- London Brigde - 20 metres, lines 17, 21, 35, 43, 47, 133, 141, 149, 343, 381, 388
What to see around
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