The Shard

The Shard which includes modern architecture, a river or creek and a skyscraper
Ascend to the observation deck of one of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe for unparalleled views of the London cityscape.

The Shard is a 95-story pyramidal tower with upscale restaurants, a luxury hotel, offices and a viewing gallery. Admire the futuristic design of this glassy skyscraper and its distinctive splintered summit.

Find out about the history of the tower, which was completed in 2012. Architect Renzo Piano designed it as a glass spire whose appearance would change according to the weather.

Take the elevator to the city’s highest viewing deck, which is on the 68th, 69th and 72nd floors. See for 40 miles (64 kilometers) into the distance on a clear day from this lookout. Attend an event, such as an album launch, a silent disco or a yoga class, in the View from the Shard area.

Capture photos of the impressive view, which includes the nearby sites of Tower Bridge, the HMS Belfast museum ship and Shakespeare’s Globe as well as suburban neighborhoods.

Use the interactive touchscreen telescopes to focus in on sites of interest. The screens hold intriguing information about roughly 200 landmarks. Stay at sunset for a particularly romantic view of this historic city. Browse the Sky Boutique, which is one of the highest shops in London, for guidebooks, souvenirs and other items.

Stay in the exclusive Shangri-La Hotel that occupies many of the floors. Office space and luxury apartments also take up much of the skyscraper’s space. Peruse the range of stores in the Shard Arcade at the foot of the tower.

Dine at one of the Shard’s ritzy restaurants, some of which belong to the hotel. Enjoy drinks at the Aqua Shard on the 31st floor and go for Chinese food at Hutong on level 33.

Book tickets to the View from the Shard online. The observation deck opens daily, though times vary so check ahead. If clouds obscure views of major landmarks during your visit, check with staff as you may be entitled to a free return visit.

The Shard is in southeast London. Ride the London Underground to London Bridge, Borough or Monument stops. Take the train to Cannon Street railway station and walk south over London Bridge or get a bus.

Reviews of The Shard

4.3
Top destination
5 - Excellent
203
" "5 - Excellent 48.44868735083532%
4 - Good
162
" "4 - Good 38.66348448687351%
3 - Okay
40
" "3 - Okay 9.54653937947494%
2 - Disappointing
4
" "2 - Disappointing 0.954653937947494%
1 - Terrible
10
" "1 - Terrible 2.386634844868735%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
14 Feb 2020

Order a cocktail

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
1 May 2019

Have afternoon tea at the Gong in the Shard. A special treat, spectacular views, excellent staff and although it is in the upper price range it was good value for money.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
10 Apr 2019

Nice walk across London Bridge

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
22 Feb 2019

Wanted to visit at night. It looked lovely in the distance all lit up. We had walked for miles & decided against it as others had told us it wasn’t worth trekking the distance. Sadly we never ended going!

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