The View From The Shard: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to The View From The Shard, where London’s skyline unfolds before you in all its glory! Perched atop the UK’s tallest building, this iconic attraction offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that stretch up to 40 miles on a clear day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, experiencing the city from 800 feet above is an unforgettable adventure. Join us as we explore everything you need to know about this must-visit destination.

Location

The View From The Shard is located at 32 London Bridge Street, London SE1 9SG, UK. It’s situated near London Bridge, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and is easily accessible via public transport. For precise navigation, you can use GPS or map apps like Google Maps.

Opening Hours

The attraction is generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but please note that opening hours may vary depending on the season or special events. It’s recommended to check the official website (The View From The Shard) for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.

How to Get There

The View From The Shard is conveniently located near London Bridge, making it easily accessible by public transport:

• London Underground: Take the Northern or Jubilee lines to London Bridge station, which is just a short walk from The Shard.
• National Rail: London Bridge station is served by Southeastern and Thameslink services.
• Bus: Numerous bus routes stop near London Bridge, including 35, 47, 133, 141, 149, 381, and 521.
• Driving: Parking in central London can be challenging and expensive. It’s recommended to use public transport. If driving, nearby car parks include Hays Galleria and London Bridge Car Park, but expect high rates.

For real-time traffic updates, apps like Waze can be helpful.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit The View From The Shard depends on your preferences:

• For fewer crowds and clear views of London’s landmarks, visit in the morning between 10 AM and 12 PM.
• For a magical experience, plan your visit around sunset (typically 4 PM to 6 PM), when you can see the city transform from day to night. However, this time can be busier.
• Visibility might be reduced at night, so if seeing specific landmarks is important, a daytime visit is recommended.
• Check the weather forecast for clear skies to ensure the best views, as poor visibility may affect your experience. The attraction offers a view guarantee, allowing a free return visit if you can’t see at least three major landmarks due to poor visibility.

Tickets and Costs

Ticket prices for The View From The Shard vary depending on the type of ticket and time of year:

• Standard Adult Tickets: Typically range from £32 to £51.
• Discounts: Available for children, students, seniors, and groups. Children under 3 enter for free.
• All-Inclusive Packages: Include perks like a glass of Champagne, £10 retail credit, and a digital photo package.
• Booking: It’s recommended to book tickets in advance online through the official website (Book Tickets) or authorized platforms to secure your preferred time slot.

Discounts may also be available through passes like The London Pass (London Pass).

Ticket Type	Price Range	Includes
Standard Adult	£32–£51	Entry to viewing platforms
Child (4–15)	Discounted	Entry to viewing platforms
All-Inclusive	Varies	Champagne, £10 retail credit, digital photos
London Pass	Free with pass	Entry with valid pass

What to Expect

When you visit The View From The Shard, you’ll be taken to the 68th floor via high-speed lifts, where you’ll find:

• Main Viewing Gallery (69th Floor): A triple-height space offering 360-degree panoramic views of London, allowing you to see up to 40 miles on a clear day. You’ll spot iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament.
• Open-Air Skydeck (72nd Floor): Provides an even higher perspective and a chance to see the top of The Shard up close.
• Digital Telescopes (“tell:scopes”): Interactive touchscreens that let you zoom in on over 200 London landmarks and learn more about them.
• London Experts: Knowledgeable staff available to answer questions and provide insights into London’s history and architecture.

A typical visit lasts 1 to 2 hours, but you can stay as long as you like until closing time. On-site facilities include restrooms, a gift shop, and a bar serving drinks and light snacks.

Safety and Accessibility

The View From The Shard prioritizes visitor safety and accessibility:

• Safety: Security checks are in place at the entrance, and staff are available throughout the attraction to ensure a secure environment.
• Accessibility: The entire journey from street level to the top is fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts and accessible toilets on Levels 1 and 68. Visitors with mobility needs can enjoy the same stunning views as everyone else.
• Family-Friendly: The attraction is suitable for families, though young children may need supervision on the open-air Skydeck.

History and Background

The Shard, officially known as the London Bridge Tower, is a 95-storey skyscraper designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano. Construction began in 2009, and it was completed in 2012, becoming the tallest building in the UK and Western Europe at 309 meters (1,016 feet). Its sharp, shard-like appearance inspired its name. The View From The Shard, the observation deck on floors 68 to 72, opened to the public on February 1, 2013, and quickly became one of London’s top attractions, welcoming over 900,000 visitors in its first year. Today, it not only offers unparalleled views but also houses offices, restaurants, and a luxury hotel, making it a multifaceted landmark in London’s skyline.

Fun Facts:

• The Shard’s 11,000 glass panels cover an area of 56,000 square meters.
• The building’s restrooms on the 68th floor offer floor-to-ceiling views, making them some of the most scenic in London.

For more details, visit the official website or the visitor center on-site.

Nearby Attractions

Near The View From The Shard, you’ll find several other must-see attractions:

• Tower of London: Explore centuries of history, see the Crown Jewels, and watch the Changing of the Guard (10-minute walk).
• Tower Bridge: Admire its iconic drawbridge and engine rooms (10-minute walk).
• Borough Market: A foodie’s paradise with gourmet foods and street eats (5-minute walk).
• Tate Modern: A world-class art museum housed in a former power station (15-minute walk).
• Shakespeare’s Globe: A reconstruction of the famous theatre where Shakespeare’s plays were first performed (15-minute walk).
• Southwark Cathedral: A historic church with beautiful architecture (5-minute walk).
• St Paul’s Cathedral: A short bus ride away, offering stunning views from its dome (10-minute bus ride).

These attractions are all within walking distance or a short public transport ride from The Shard, making it easy to combine visits for a full day out.

Attraction	Distance from The Shard	Highlights
Tower of London	10-minute walk	Crown Jewels, history
Tower Bridge	10-minute walk	Iconic bridge, engine rooms
Borough Market	5-minute walk	Gourmet food stalls
Tate Modern	15-minute walk	Modern art
Shakespeare’s Globe	15-minute walk	Historic theatre

Practical Tips

• What to Bring: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the views (photography is encouraged for personal use). Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the viewing platforms.
• What Not to Bring: Large bags or backpacks (over 22 x 15 x 8 inches) are not allowed. Tripods and monopods are also prohibited.
• Food and Drink: Only food and drink purchased on-site can be consumed in the viewing gallery. Options are available on Levels 69 and 72.
• Weather: Check the forecast for clear skies, as visibility can affect your experience.
• Booking: Arrive early or book a less busy time slot to avoid crowds. Download the official app for additional information or audio guides.

FAQs

What are the opening hours The View From The Shard?

Opening hours may vary, but typically, it’s open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Check the official website (The View From The Shard) for the most current schedule.

How much does it cost to visit The View From The Shard?

Standard adult tickets range from £32 to £51. Discounts are available for children, students, and seniors. All-inclusive packages with additional perks are also offered.

Is The View From The Shard suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly, with stunning views that both children and adults can enjoy. Young children may need supervision on the open-air Skydeck.

Are there any discounts available for The View From The Shard?

Yes, discounts are available for children, students, seniors, and groups. Advance booking or using passes like The London Pass can also save money.

How long does it take to visit The View From The Shard?

A typical visit lasts around 1 to 2 hours, but you can stay as long as you like until closing time.

Is photography allowed at The View From The Shard?

Yes, photography is allowed for personal use. Hand-held cameras and video equipment are permitted, but tripods and monopods are not.

Are there guided tours available at The View From The Shard?

While there are no formal guided tours, “London Experts” are available on-site to provide information and answer questions about the views and London’s landmarks.

What’s the best way to get to The View From The Shard from the city center?

The closest station is London Bridge, served by the London Underground (Northern and Jubilee lines) and National Rail services. It’s a short walk from there.

Is The View From The Shard wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is fully accessible, with wheelchair-accessible lifts and toilets on Levels 1 and 68.

Are there dining options near The View From The Shard?

Yes, there are dining options within The Shard itself, including restaurants and bars. Borough Market, known for its gourmet food stalls, is also nearby.