The Shard- The highest viewing platform in London

London other attractions and things to do

(Image credit-Garry Knight, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

The Shard is famous not only because it is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and the seventh-tallest building in Europe, but also this construction represents a new approach to the urban planning by accommodating Offices, restaurants, residence spaces and public viewing galleries in one place. It is designed by Renzo Piano, an Italian architect.

This beautiful skyscraper built from recycled steel and 11,000 glass panels. Many offices, luxury hotels, galleries, private accommodations and observative areas are accommodated in this construction. Office spaces are occupied from level 2 to level 28 and the world-class Shangri-La Hotel, restaurants and bars on levels 31, 32 and 33. The five stars homes are occupied from levels 34 to 52. Between levels 53 and 65, private residences occupy which are some of the most prominent addresses in London.

In the observation area, visitors get a view up to 40 miles in all direction. Compared to other observational attractions in London, The Shard offer the highest (almost twice the height of any other viewing platforms in London) and the best 360-degree panoramic view. It situated in 3 different floors 68, 69 and 72.

(Image credit- Smuconlaw, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

View of Tower bridge

OPENING TIMES: More details

ENTRANCE: You can purchase the ticket online

ACCESSABILITY: The high speed and extra smooth lift take you to level 68 with in one minute. This attraction is wheelchair friendly

ADDRESS: JOINER STREET, LONDON, SE1 9QU

BAR: Check the menu price

NEAREST TUBE STATIONS: London Bridge

TIPS

The Shard is included in the Go City Pass London, which is the much cheaper option if you are planning to visit more attractions in London. Check it out for
If you are more that 10 people, group ticket is the much cheaper option.
London Tower bridge, Tower of London, Borough Market are only walkable distance from the Shard. Check out the link on the top of the page for more details.
There are other viewing platforms in the city which are absolutely free, but need booking very advance as they will be sold out very quickly. They are Sky Garden, Horizon 22 and The Garden at 120.

(Image credit-:Somhairle Kelly, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

THE PUBLIC OBSERVATION GALLERY AT LEVEL 69:

Without any obstructions, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the capital even on a bad weather day. You can get the interactive information about the building from the digital guide provided. The detailed historic map and the modern-day map, which highlight the various points of interest, are very handy. There is an interactive telescope which will help you to do more investigation about this historic city. There is an option for a glass of champagne based on the ticket you purchase.

(Image credit-Smuconlaw, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

THE SKYDECK AT LEVEL 72:

Level 72 is an open-air sky deck where you can literally enjoy the cloud and feel the air. Feel free to enjoy the real atmosphere and sound of the city from the sky. There is no time restriction on your stay once you entered to the viewing platform. There is a promise from the Shard that you will be able to come back for free in case the weather bad based on terms and conditions.