Navigating The Shard : Answers to common questions
- Admission Fee: Admission fee is required for the viewing platform; restaurant prices vary.
- How Long to Visit: Visitors typically spend 1-2 hours at the viewing platform.
- Washrooms: Accessible restrooms are available at the viewing platform and restaurants.
- Hours of Operation: The viewing platform is open daily, with hours varying by season.
- Important Information: Booking in advance is recommended, especially for the viewing platform and dining.
- Handicap Accessible: The viewing platform and restaurants are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed, except for service animals.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are not typically available, but information plaques provide details about the views.
- Restaurant or Cafe: Multiple dining options are available, offering everything from casual to fine dining.
- Gift Shop: Gift shop at the viewing platform sells a range of souvenirs and Shard-themed items.
- Parking: Limited parking; public transport is the best option due to its central location.
- Family Friendly: The Shard is family-friendly, with children welcome at the viewing platform and certain restaurants.
- Photography: Photography is encouraged for personal use; tripods may be restricted.
- WIFI: Free WIFI is available at the viewing platform and the restaurants.
- Picnic Area: No picnic areas are available.
Please note all times and prices subject to change. Please check the offical website for details.
Perched high above London's bustling streets, The Shard stands as a testament to modern architecture and human ambition. When it comes to truly appreciating the vastness and beauty of one of the world's most iconic cities, there is no place more fitting than The Shard's viewing platforms. As a travel writer who has ventured to countless awe-inspiring locations across the globe, the experience offered by The Shard remains unparalleled in many respects. It provides not just views, but a unique perspective on London's historic and modern landmarks woven seamlessly together.
Ascending the 95-story skyscraper is an experience in itself. The journey to the top is made via high-speed elevators, which whisk visitors to the observation decks in mere seconds. Upon arrival at The View from The Shard, situated on floors 68 through 72, visitors are greeted with panoramic sights that stretch up to 40 miles on a clear day. From this vantage point, iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, the River Thames winding its way through the city, and even the distant spires of Windsor Castle become miniatures in a vast, sprawling diorama.
The Shard's architectural brilliance adds to the allure of its views. The building's pinnacle, designed with jagged glass facets, ensures that the skyline is not merely observed but felt. The sensation of standing atop London, with the city's heartbeat pulsating below, is magnified by the architectural genius that allows for unobstructed 360-degree views. At sunset, the experience transcends into something truly magical. The sky, painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, serves as a backdrop to the city's illuminated landmarks, presenting a view that's both dynamic and tranquil.
For those looking to enhance their experience, The Shard also offers options to dine with a view. Restaurants and bars such as Aqua Shard, Oblix, and Hutong provide exquisite menus complemented by the breathtaking scenery. Enjoying a meal or a cocktail as day turns into night over the London skyline is a memory that not only delights the palate but also touches the soul.
Visiting The Shard is more than just an opportunity to see London from a great height; it's an immersive experience that connects visitors with the city in an intimate and profound way. The blend of architectural innovation, panoramic views, and the ability to see history and modernity intertwined at a glance makes a visit to The Shard an essential item on any traveler's itinerary. It offers a perspective on London that, once seen, changes the way one perceives this magnificent city forever.
Did You Know These Facts About The Shard ?
The Shard's construction was completed in 2012 and it features 11,000 glass panels.
The Shard was designed by The Italian architect Renzo Piano and is part of The London Bridge Quarter development.
The Shard is The tallest building in The United Kingdom, standing at 309.6 meters (1,016 feet).
The public viewing gallery offers 360-degree views of London from heights of up to 244 meters (800 feet).
The Shard has 72 habitable floors, including restaurants, offices, and The Shangri-La Hotel.
Currency Exchange Rates for United Kingdom1 GBP = 1.2062 € EUR
1 GBP = 1.275 $ USD
1 GBP = 1.7888 $ CAD
1 GBP = 191.5158 ¥ JPY
1 GBP = 1.1217 ₣ CHF
1 GBP = 9.2582 元CNY
1 GBP = 9.9214 圓 HKD
1 GBP = 1.9778 $ AUD
1 GBP = 2.1699 $ NZD
1 GBP = 1.275 $ USD
1 GBP = 1.7888 $ CAD
1 GBP = 191.5158 ¥ JPY
1 GBP = 1.1217 ₣ CHF
1 GBP = 9.2582 元CNY
1 GBP = 9.9214 圓 HKD
1 GBP = 1.9778 $ AUD
1 GBP = 2.1699 $ NZD
NOTE: Exchange rates are an average currency exchange rate from several sources. These rates are not buy or sell rates which will depend on when and where you buy or sell currency.
Verified & Trusted Contact Information for The Shard
Address:
32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 343 222 2999
Official Website: www.the-shard.com/
Latitude: 51.504501
Longitude: -0.0865
Map for The Shard
Lambeth Current Weather
Local Temp: 8.6℃ / 47.5℉
High: 9.1℃ / 48.4℉
Low: 7.9℃ / 46.2℉
Humidity: 72 %
More Places and Things To Do in London Within 25 kilometers/15 miles of The Shard
Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
The Distance from The Shard to Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is 0.8 Kilometers / 0.5 Miles
St. Paul's Cathedral
The Distance from The Shard to St. Paul's Cathedral is 1.3 Kilometers / 0.8 Miles
The Imperial War Museum
The Distance from The Shard to The Imperial War Museum is 1.8 Kilometers / 1.1 Miles
The West End Theatre District
The Distance from The Shard to The West End Theatre District is 2.6 Kilometers / 1.6 Miles
Houses of Parliament
The Distance from The Shard to Houses of Parliament is 2.7 Kilometers / 1.7 Miles
The National Portrait Gallery
The Distance from The Shard to The National Portrait Gallery is 2.9 Kilometers / 1.8 Miles
The Churchill War Rooms
The Distance from The Shard to The Churchill War Rooms is 3 Kilometers / 1.9 Miles
Madame Tussauds London
The Distance from The Shard to Madame Tussauds London is 5.1 Kilometers / 3.2 Miles
Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich
The Distance from The Shard to Visit the Royal Observatory in Greenwich is 6.7 Kilometers / 4.2 Miles
The Royal Botanic Gardens
The Distance from The Shard to The Royal Botanic Gardens is 14.9 Kilometers / 9.3 Miles
The Notting Hill Carnival
The Distance from The Shard to The Notting Hill Carnival is 20.5 Kilometers / 12.7 Miles
