Tallest Building in London – The Shard

The Shard, an iconic skyscraper, stands as the tallest building in London. With its distinctive glass facade and sleek design, it dominates the city’s skyline. Rising to a height of 309.6 m (1,016 ft), this architectural marvel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bustling city below.

This post may contain affiliate links. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. As an Amazon Associate, I get a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Plan your trip like a PRO with these helpful websites:

🛫 Fly with Aegean Airlines (Greece), search best flights on Kiwi
✈️ Secure airport parking on Airport Parking with Us, Airport Parking Manchester, Airport Parking Luton
🚕 Find transfers and airport services on GetTransfer
🚗 Rent a car from Rentalcars, Discover Cars
🚆 Buy train tickets on Rail Europe, Omio, Trainline
🚌 Book cheap bus tickets on Busbud
⛴️ Travel by Ferry with DFDS
🛏️ Find the best hotels' offers on Agoda, Booking, Hostelword
📖 Read Hotel's Reviews on Tripadvisor
🏞️ Travel with G Adventures in small groups worldwide
🤳 Visit the most popular attractions with Get Your Guide and Viator
🌎 Choose SafetyWing - the best travel insurance for Nomads
🗽 Save up to 50% on attractions with GoCity
🛒 Buy Travel Gear before your trip 
Amazon US
Amazon UK

How to Get to Shard from the Airport?

🚆 BY TRAIN

London Luton Airport – From Luton Airport you can get to Luton Airport Parkway Station in just 10 minutes by tube. The train will then take you to London Bridge Station in around 48 minutes. The Shard is just a few minutes’ walk from London Bridge.

London Stansted Airport – Stansted Airport is a 50-minute direct train ride to London Liverpool Street Station. From Liverpool Street, it is worth taking a 30-minute walk to the Shard, visiting London attractions such as Sky Garden and Horizon 22 along the way.

London Heathrow Airport – From Heathrow Airport you can get a direct train to London Paddington Station in 20-30 minutes. From there, use the London Underground, e.g. the yellow Circle line, and get off at Monument station. The Shard is just a 12-minute walk from Monument Station.

London Gatwick Airport – From Gatwick Airport you can get directly to London Bridge Station, which is located next to the Shard Building, in around 30 minutes.

🚌💨 BUS

The cheapest option to get from airports to central London is by bus. Don’t waste time and buy your ticket online on Busbud, where you’ll find National Express, Megabus and many more.

Shard London Viewing Platform Tickets

BUY TICKET

📍 Location: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG

I highly recommend to buy a Shard tickets online, which will allow you to admire the amazing panorama of London. On the Shard viewing platform you will be able to enjoy not only a beautiful sunset, but also have a pleasant time sipping your favorite drinks.

If you plan to visit the Shard viewing platform midweek, you can take advantage of the cheaper tickets that are available on these days. This is a great opportunity to enjoy stunning views of London at a lower price.

Additionally, if you want to surprise someone close to you, you can buy a ticket as a gift. The recipient will have the opportunity to see the highest observation deck in London and admire the city skyline from an extraordinary perspective

Shard Experience with the GoCity Pass

If you’re looking to make the most of your time in London and visit multiple attractions in a single day, the All-Inclusive Pass is perfect for you. With this pass, you can visit as many attractions as you like, as long as you have sufficient credits remaining on your GoCity pass. This pass is valid for one day from the first use, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

For those who prefer a bit cheaper option, the Explorer Pass is a great too. With this pass, you can choose two attractions of your choice to visit. This pass is valid for 60 days from your first visit, allowing you to plan your itinerary according to your preferences. There’s no need to pick your attractions before purchasing the pass, giving you the freedom to decide as you go.

Whether you opt for the All-Inclusive Pass or the Explorer Pass, visiting the Shard with the GoCity Pass ofers great savings. Don’t forget to check the GoCity website for a complete list of attractions included in the pass.

Why Should You Visit Tallest Building in London – the Shard?

When I visited the tallest tower in London, I couldn’t help but be in awe of the sprawling metropolis below. As someone who has completed my architectural studies, visiting the Shard was a must for me. 

The Shard has quickly become a top attraction in London, and it’s not hard to see why. Views from its observation deck are simply unmatched. Shard is definitely the most iconic piece of modern architecture in the United Kingdom.

Londoners, tourists, and architectural critics are talking about this skyscraper every single second. The view from The Shard is absolutely the best in the capital. Visit the Shard and forget for a moment about the London Eye, because you will not find better views of London anywhere else.

When Was Shard Built?

I would be happy to provide you with information about the construction of Shard. The Shard, also known as the Shard of Glass or Shard London Bridge was completed in 2012. Its construction began in March 2009 and took approximately three years to complete. 

I was amazed to learn that the Shard, a super tall structure, could only come into existence if the Southwark Towers were taken down. It was back in 2008 when this 100-meter-tall building made way for the magnificent Shard.

It’s fascinating to think that Southwark Towers and Drapers’ Gardens tower, held the record for being the tallest structures ever to be demolished in the UK. The Southwark Towers were situated close to Guy’s Hospital and several other buildings, so it took a few months to complete the demolition and clear the space for the Shard.

Opening Ceremony of the Tallest Building in London

The construction of the Shard, one of the most remarkable buildings in London, was an impressive feat that took place from March 2009 to July 5, 2012. With a staggering cost of approximately £435 million, the meticulous work and attention to detail invested in this project were evident in the final result. The anticipation for the opening ceremony was palpable, as three years of hard work culminated in a grand celebration.

The opening ceremony of the Shard was a momentous occasion that left spectators in awe. The highlight of the event was a breathtaking light show that illuminated the entire skyscraper, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. As the lights danced across the building’s facade, it symbolized the beginning of a new era for London‘s skyline. The opening ceremony was a testament to the architectural brilliance and innovation that went into the construction of the Shard.

While the opening ceremony was a one-time event, the Shard continues to captivate visitors throughout the year. Winter, in particular, offers a magical experience for those who visit the building. As the nights grow longer and colder, the Shard becomes a beacon of light in the London skyline.

It is during this season that the building truly comes alive, with enchanting illuminations that add a touch of wonder to the city. From witnessing the mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights from the tallest building in Western Europe to marveling at the dazzling Christmas lights in London, this city offers a unique and unforgettable experience during the winter months.

How Tall is the Shard?

Is the Shard the tallest building in London? Yes, the Shard is indeed the tallest building in London. Standing proudly in the heart of the city, this iconic skyscraper dominates the skyline with its impressive height and unique architectural design

Have you ever wondered about the exact height of the Shard? Well, let me tell you, it reaches a staggering height of 1,016 feet (309,6 meters). Just imagine standing at the base of this colossal structure and craning your neck to see its pinnacle disappear into the clouds above. It’s truly a sight to behold and a testament to human engineering and innovation.

Is the Shard Tallest Building in Europe?

The Shard, an iconic skyscraper located in London, holds the title of being the tallest building in the UK. However, when it comes to Europe as a whole, there are a few other countries that boast even taller structures. Russia, for instance, is home to several impressive skyscrapers such as the Lakhta Center, Federation Tower, OKO, Neva Towers, and Mercury City Tower. These towering structures surpass the Shard in terms of height, making Russia a country with the tallest buildings in Europe.

Another country that can claim a taller building than the Shard is Poland. The Varso Tower, situated in Warsaw, stands as a testament to modern architecture. With its sleek design, the Varso Tower adds to the list of European buildings that exceed the Shard‘s height.

While the Shard may not hold the title of the tallest building in Europe, it still remains a remarkable structure. Standing as the 7th tallest building in Europe, it is a symbol of architectural excellence and a prominent feature of London‘s skyline. Its unique design and panoramic views make it a popular tourist attraction in London, offering visitors a chance to marvel at the city from its lofty heights.

Things to do in the Shard

This towering skyscraper is a bustling hub of activity, operating round the clock with its diverse range of functions. From residential spaces to office complexes and even retail, The Shard caters to the needs of its occupants and visitors at all times.

The Shard not only houses offices on its lower levels but also boasts a plethora of dining options and famous Shangri-La The Shard Hotel at its heart. As you ascend to the pinnacle of the tower, you’ll discover luxurious private apartments that crown this magnificent structure.

Designed by the talented Italian architect Renzo Piano, this 72-story masterpiece takes the form of a striking pyramid, captivating all who lay eyes upon it. The uppermost floors of this architectural gem house a public viewing gallery, situated an awe-inspiring 240 meters above the bustling streets below.

Facts About the Shard Facade

What sets the Shard apart from other buildings is its innovative approach to utilizing the façade’s performance in terms of light and heat. Each individual piece of glass is uniquely designed to slope in a different direction, creating a dynamic and visually striking effect.

This intentional design choice also ensures that neighboring glass elements receive varying degrees of sunlight exposure. This not only adds to the building’s aesthetic appeal but also helps regulate the amount of heat entering the structure.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Shard‘s façade is the way the glass pieces are interconnected. Unlike traditional buildings where the glass panels seamlessly connect, the Shard‘s glass pieces never meet.

This deliberate design decision serves a practical purpose as well. By keeping the glass elements separate, the building is able to withstand wind loads without compromising the integrity of the glass surfaces. It’s a testament to the meticulous planning and engineering that went into creating this architectural marvel.

As I gaze upon its magnificent façade, I am captivated by the ever-changing display of colors. The use of extra-white glass gives the building a mesmerizing effect, as the hues shift and transform depending on the sky above. It’s like witnessing a breathtaking work of art that is constantly evolving before my eyes.

Visit the Shard

With its remarkable height, the Shard truly stands out as an architectural marvel. As you ascend to levels 68, 69, and 72, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of awe-inspiring vistas. The expansive views extend as far as the eye can see, offering a mesmerizing sight that captures the essence of London‘s grandeur. Moreover, the 360-degree panoramic views stretch up to an impressive 40 miles, allowing you to spot the picturesque landscapes of Surrey in the distance.

The View from the Shard

I absolutely love the view from the Shard! It is truly breathtaking and I cannot recommend it enough. The panoramic view of London is simply stunning and it is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. The Shard offers a perspective of the city that is unparalleled and it is definitely worth the visit.

While the Sky Garden is also a fantastic spot to admire the beauty of London, the view from the Shard is on a whole other level. The Shard‘s height and architecture allow for an unobstructed view of the cityscape, giving you a sense of being on top of the world. It is a truly unique experience that will leave you in awe.

Having visited both the Sky Garden and the Shard on the same day, I can confidently say that the Shard is my top choice. The combination of its incredible view and the overall experience of being in such an iconic building make it a must-visit attraction in London. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate view of London, the Shard is the place to go.

Best Time to Visit the View from the Shard

Visit Shard Just Before Sunset

I highly recommend visiting the View from the Shard just before sunset. It’s truly a magical experience to witness the sun slowly descending over the London skyline from this iconic landmark. As the day comes to an end, the vibrant colors of the sunset paint the city in a breathtaking palette, creating a mesmerizing view that you won’t want to miss.

The Shard Sunset in Winter

We absolutely love the winter London! It’s such a magical time of the year when the sun starts to set just before 4 pm. To truly make the most of this breathtaking sight, we always make sure to arrive at the Shard at least an hour earlier. By doing so, we can find the perfect spot to witness the sunset in all its glory and capture some truly stunning photographs.

The Shard Sunset in Summer

The advantage of visiting Shard during summer is that you can come much later in the day and still catch the breathtaking view. In the summertime, the sun sets around 9 pm, which is perfect for those who have busy work schedules or sightseeing other attractions in London and can’t make it earlier. You won’t have to worry about missing out on the best sunset in London.

The Shard Sunset in Spring

Spring is such a wonderful time to witness the breathtaking sunset in Shard. If you’re planning a visit to Shard in March, I highly recommend arriving before 5:40 pm to catch the mesmerizing view. As April rolls in, the sun gracefully sets between 7:30 pm and 8:20 pm, providing a longer window to soak in the beauty.

And as May arrives, the days grow even longer, allowing you to marvel at the stunning sunset until as late as 9 pm. If you want to plan your visit accordingly, don’t forget to check the current sunset time in London for more precise details.

The Shard Sunset in Autumn

As September rolls in, the days gradually grow shorter, but fear not, for autumn still offers the perfect opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunset at Shard. Even after 6 pm, the Shard welcomes visitors with open arms, allowing them to soak in the mesmerizing hues of the setting sun.

During September, you can relish the spectacle of the sun descending from the sky, painting the horizon with a myriad of colors, from 6:40 pm until 7:40 pm, depending on the specific date. It’s a magical time of year when nature puts on a show that captivates the hearts of all who witness it.

As October approaches, the sun begins to set earlier, casting a golden glow over the Shard. By the end of October, the sun bids farewell around 4:40 pm, creating a serene ambiance that is truly enchanting. The autumnal atmosphere adds an extra touch of charm to the Shard, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city. The fading light of the sun casts long shadows and bathes the Shard in a warm, ethereal glow, creating a picturesque scene that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

November brings with it the final days of autumn, and the sun’s descent becomes even more pronounced. Just before 4 pm, the sun dips below the horizon, marking the end of another beautiful day. The Shard, standing tall amidst the cityscape, offers a front-row seat to this daily spectacle. As the sun bids adieu, the Shard‘s panoramic views become even more captivating, allowing visitors to witness the transition from day to night in all its glory.

Visit Shard at Night

If you want to witness the city come alive in a different way, I suggest visiting the Shard at night. As darkness falls, London transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights. The cityscape is adorned with twinkling lights that illuminate the streets, buildings, and bridges, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. From the Shard‘s observation deck, you’ll enjoy this captivating display, making it an unforgettable experience that showcases the vibrant energy of London after dark.

Visit Shard During Winter

I personally love visiting the Shard, including London in winter. There’s something magical about the low winter sun casting a golden glow on the city, making every moment feel like a picture-perfect golden hour. It’s the best time to take amazing photos of London from the Shard‘s observation deck. And if the chilly weather gets too much, you can always retreat to one of the Shard‘s cozy restaurants and indulge in delicious food while still enjoying the stunning vistas.

Visit Shard on Rainy Day

Rainy days in London can be a bit of a downer, but the Shard provides the perfect escape from the gloomy weather. From taking a refreshing swim in the Sky Pool to incredible cocktails available at the Shard‘s sky-high bars, there’s no shortage of amazing activities to enjoy. Additionally, the viewing platforms offer a different perspective of London‘s skyline, with rain-kissed buildings adding a touch of mystique.

The sky is the limit

When I first visited London I was expecting to see skyscrapers everywhere. In reality, there are not many of them in London. The craziest thing to do in the capital was to try to get a building permit to construct a super tall structure that exceeds 300 meters. 

Shard at night

Shard’s developer Sellar didn’t have an easy road to complete this architectural and engineering masterpiece. Planning issues, financial crisis, and breaking significantly the building height in London was no simple task. There is a saying that “Sky’s the limit”, which simply means that everything is possible if you truly want to make it happen. 

View from Shard looking at London Bridge

Irvine Sellar can be proud that against all the odds, he reshaped London‘s skyline. I am sure that Londoners are happy with the city’s transformation. This iconic building attracts plenty of tourists but also is a great place to visit for those living locally. 

London Shard

The shard that reaches a height of 306 meters, was finished in 2012. It is fully made of glass and due to its unusual shape and height, it has become a significant landmark in London. Sometimes it is called Shard of Glass, but let’s stay with the simple name of Shard.

Shard at night

Shard is significantly taller than any other skyscraper in London. During construction, 11,000 panes of glass were used to create this amazing structure. My first thought is that the sharp shape of the building wants to pierce the sky. However, glass facades stop at different levels, causing the top of the Shard to look like lightweight feathers disappearing in the sky. 

Looking at Shard from Southwark Bridge

Open top spire allows for a wind to swirl inside the structure and interact with it. Yes, the Shard is enormous, so enormous that it can be seen from many parts of the capital. It became the main reference point in the city, so if you ever get lost in London, look out for Shard.

How many restaurants are in the Shard?

There are 6 restaurants in Shard and each of them offers a completely different experience. You can taste delicious British cuisine, and escape to the Alps or China. From level 31 up to level 52, Shard offers amazing views with tasty meals and great cocktails. Make sure to visit at least one of them during your stay in London.

Bar in Shard, London

Visit the Shard London restaurants and bars (list starting from the highest to the lowest level) 

GŎNG – The best place to have drinks at Shard

This is an ideal spot for watching the sunset and drinking cocktails in Europe’s tallest hotel bar. GŎNG Bar is located on the 52nd floor with one of the best views of London. The bar’s name comes from “dougong” which is one of the most significant structural elements in traditional Chinese architecture, consisting of interlocking wooden brackets. 

TĪNG – The best restaurant with a 360-degree panorama of London 

Inside Western Europe’s highest skyscraper, taste modern British meals prepared with the best seasonal ingredients. Full-height glass windows provide a 360-degree panorama of London in this stunning restaurant located on the 35th floor.

SKY LOUNGE – The best restaurant in the Shard Hotel

On level 34 of the Shangri-La Hotel, you will find a beautiful Sky Lounge. If you want to relax in a luxurious restaurant while admiring the stunning views of London, you don’t have to look any further. Sky Lounge offers a wonderful menu with great beverages such as Veuve Clicquot. 

HUTONG – The best restaurant to try Roasted Peking duck in London

Hutong restaurant is located on level 33. The cuisine of Hutong is based on the delicacies that were served at the royal palaces of Peking. The menu reflects Northern Chinese cuisine inspired by Shandong Province’s “Lu school” cooking style. The name of the restaurant comes from Beijing’s historic hutongs which were small passageways in the city, showing old family homes and their daily life.

OBLIX – The best place to have Shard afternoon tea

Modern restaurant on the 32nd level of The Shard is separated into two areas with views overlooking central London from East to West. Inspired by the New York cityscape, it provides a stylish dining place. Visitors may unwind and try a range of dishes from breakfast to evening menus. Shard afternoon tea with the best views of London is a unique experience.

AQUA SHARD – The best place to have  dinner at Shard

This restaurant offers a wonderful view of the city as well as a three-story high atrium bar. Aqua shard menu has the best British meals and great cocktails. You can enjoy amazing panoramic views of London on the 31st level.

BAR 31 – The best Shard Bar in winter style

If you want to feel the Alp vibes in London, there is no better place than Bar 31. You can try their delicacies like the Nuernberger Sausage Roll or Chicken Schnitzel. It is a great spot to catch up with friends and drink hot chocolate while admiring the best views of London.

Afternoon tea at the Shard

Afternoon Tea in the United Kingdom dates back to the early 1840s. Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford loved to eat sweet delicacies when drinking a cup of tea. At 4 pm higher classes had a “high tea”. One or two hours later lower and middle working classes would have “afternoon” or “low” tea.

When visiting London, you should go back in time to experience one of the most famous British traditions. In Oblix, Aqua Shard, and TĪNG you can have not only a great view of London but also an enjoyable cup of tea. 

Visit the Shard Hotel

In Shangri-La The Shard hotel you can enjoy panoramic views across the River Thames. The hotel is located on 18 floors, starting from level 34. Full height windows offer breath-taking views of St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and many other attractions of London. Stylish décor with Chinoiserie accents provides elegance and comfort inside the highest structure of Western Europe. 

Panoramic view of London looking at St Paul’s Cathedral

It is so simple to go to networking events in one of the best world’s financial cities when staying in Shard. Shangri-La Hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the Canary Wharf. This business center has over 300 shops, bars, restaurants, and one of the largest roof gardens in London.

Rooms in Shard hotel combine sophisticated materials like marble, silk, and wood. When staying in Shangri-La you can feel at home with a bit of luxury. Shard views are amazing so if you are looking for the best spot to watch the sunset in London, why not book a room with a breath-taking view.

Visit the Shard to swim in Sky Pool

Swim with the views in the most magnificent place in London. Sky Pool is located on level 52 and it is the highest hotel swimming pool in Western Europe. Shangri-La hotel guests can enjoy views from one of the best pools in London. They spend approximately £450 per room to dip into the water next to the capital’s skyline.

London sunset at Shard

Swimming 200 meters above sea level with views of famous buildings like the Gherkin or St Paul’s Cathedral is an amazing experience. Sky Pool is part of the highest bar in London – GŎNG. A 10-meter-long swimming pool not only provides magical addition to the Shard, but also makes London‘s nightlife more sophisticated.

Meetings & Events in Shard

If you want to bring your meetings to an exceptional level there is no better place than Shangri-La The Shard in London. It’s an excellent option for weddings or any other celebrations for groups between 20 to 110 people. Full height windows in Shard, making it a perfect location to take incredible photos in a wedding dress.

Inside the Shard

Ren is the biggest private space with an area of 140 people. It has views of the gorgeous River Thames and the City of London. Another place to organize events in Shard is Li. It is ideal for smaller group meetings with up to 30 people. Views of Battersea Power Station and Tower Bridge will impress all visitors. On the other hand, if you are looking for a room with up to 10 guests, choose Yi. 

Visit the Shard – London Bridge Quarter

The vision of a vibrant district with the tallest building in Western Europe became a reality. Not far from Shard, you can also see a 17-story structure – The Palace. As well as a newly refurbished transport hub which looks impressive from the top of Shard.

London Bridge station is seen from Shard

Southwark was a large district of the ancient Roman colony of Londinium. Historically, it is the most significant region in London. During the London Bridge Hotel’s restoration, several historical treasures were found in this area. What happened later? The Museum of London took the entire site to explore it.

Shard view from London Bridge at night

Shard Quarter is not just a modern building with multiple functionalities. If you walk down London Bridge Quarter, please remember about one of the greatest civilizations in the history of London that was occupying this area. 

London – interesting facts about the Shard

The Shard is an integral element of London. In my opinion, it is one of the best buildings in the capital, if not the best. Have you ever wondered how fast the lift goes in The Shard? The speed of the lift is just six meters per second so you will not even notice when you get to the highest levels of the building. 

View of River Thames, City Hall, and Shard

Another interesting fact about Shard is that the majority of used materials in the building are recycled. Steel, concrete, and glass are the main elements that form Shard. Constructing this amazing skyscraper was a challenge, because of the London Underground. Any vibrations during work had to be kept at the lowest level.

RELATED ARTICLES:

MUST HAVE: