Top Sight Tours Group

tours of the shard london

The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour

What we will see & where we will be.

Almost double the height of any other viewing platform in London, The Shard offers an unbeatable view of the capital. It’s the perfect way to see the city after exploring the iconic sights of Westminster close-up!

First, you’ll meet your friendly local guide in Green Park to begin a fun 3-hour tour of Westminster. Along the way, you’ll see many of London’s iconic sights, including Buckingham Palace, Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, The London Eye and Parliament Square. You can even see the Changing of the Guard (certain days only)!

The tour is 5 hours in duration (3 hours Westminster Walking Tour & 2 hours at The Shard. We will not accompany you into The Shard Viewing Gallery)

Afterwards, your guide will direct you how to get to The Shard, where a high-speed elevator will take you to floor 68. Once here, enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view stretching out across the city for up to 40 miles! If you’re feeling brave, you can even head up to the open air viewing platform on level 72!

Please note: Changing of the Guard will take place daily in June & July, otherwise only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays

What’s included:

  • Entrance ticket for The Shard Viewing Gallery
  • Top Westminster sights of London walking tour (3 hours)
  • Small Tour Group Size (10 – 15 guests per group)
  • Fun Local Guide

Please bring with you:

  • An umbrella if it’s raining
  • Comfortable Shoes
  • Drinks & Snacks
  • Camera (for all the photos you’ll be taking!)

Where we meet

We meet outside the Ritz Hotel (W1J 9BR). Next to two red telephone boxes. Nearest underground station is Green Park.

Once you have booked, we will send you a confirmation email with all the details of how, where, and who to meet on the day of your tour.

TripAdvisor

Tour Highlights

See The Top Westminster Attractions in 3 hours and then get London’s highest view at The Shard:

Westminster Area : sights include 

  • Buckingham Palace
  • Queen Victoria Fountain
  • St James Park
  • Changing of the Guard ceremony (certain days only)
  • Admiralty Arch
  • Downing Street
  • Houses of Parliament (Westminster Palace)
  • Trafalgar Square
  • Nelson’s Column
  • Parliament Square

You will then head to The Shard Viewing Platform!

Private London Tours of the Top 30 attractions in London. Click   here

Want Westminster Tours? Click   here

Interested in London Food Tours?   Click   here

For more London Walking Tours : Click   here

Similar London Tours

See over 30 top london sights fun local guide.

This is a fun London walking tour where you will see the top 30 London Attractions & hear about thei ...

J K Rowling Wizard Walking Private Tour & River Cruise

Discover JK Rowling's London with your own Potterhead guide, including film locations, inspiring lan ...

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey

Since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all coronations of English and British monarc ...

Eat 8 English Foods & See 30+ London Sights Walking Tour!

See the top 30 London landmarks then head to Borough Market to enjoy the best of British food! ...

London Wizard Tour and Ghost Bus Combo Package

An afternoon of magical wizarding sights. An evening of spooky interactive fun aboard the infamous G ...

Wizard Sights and Ghosts of London Combo Tour

Explore JK Rowling's inspirations and wizard film locations in the afternoon, then set off on London ...

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

We will see 20 of London's most iconic sights in a 3-hour historic walking tour! After the walking t ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour and Jack the Ripper Combo Tour

Visit film locations and sights that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard! Then explore the dark stre ...

London Wizard Tour with Madame Tussauds Tickets

See the London sights that inspired JK Rowling and over 10 real film location, then meet the world's ...

Wizard Walking Tour with The Shard Viewpoint

Visit film locations and sights that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard! Then cap it off with an un ...

Wizard Sights and Shrek’s Adventure Combo Tour

This fun-packed combo tour is ideal for kids! Explore London's wizarding sights and film locations, ...

Wizard Walking Tour with London Bridge Tombs Experience

Explore JK Rowling's London with 10+ actual film locations, then descend to the hidden Tombs of Lond ...

Thames River Cruise & Westminster 3-Hour Private Tour

Take a cruise along the River Thames after exploring the top sights of Westminster with your own per ...

Live Magic Wizarding Sights Tour with a Top Magician (Private)

Join your own amazing personal magician for a wizarding tour with a difference - film locations and ...

London : 2 Day Tour. See & Do Everything !

This is the ultimate 2-day tour of London. Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Harry Potter & Jack T ...

Best of London Walking Tour with Tower of London & Tower Bridge!

Discover over 30 world-famous London landmarks then head inside the iconic Tower of London and Tower ...

Climb The O2 Arena & Best of Westminster Tour

See over 20 of London's top landmarks in Westminster, then head over to the O2 for a thrilling climb ...

Full Royal Private Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Entry

Discover over 15 top attractions in Royal London with a personalized walking tour, followed by an ex ...

Wizard Walking Tour with The London Eye

Discover top film locations and several sites that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard and enjoy inc ...

The London Top Sights Tour. Kids Free!

See 30+ London landmarks on one incredible walking tour, and learn the history, culture, and legends ...

Wizard Walking Tour with St Paul’s Cathedral Entry

Explores iconic Harry Potter movie locations, including Platform 9¾ and the Leaky Cauldron, then vi ...

Wizard Walking Tour with London Dungeons Experience

Explore London's wizard locations and JK Rowling's inspired buildings on a guided walking tour. Then ...

Wizard Walking Tour with Clink Prison Entry

Discover over 10 wizard movie locations that inspired JK Rowling. Then visit the historic Clink Pris ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, Tower of London & River Cruise

Discover the magic of London with a wizarding walking tour to see enchanting sites inspired by JK Ro ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, St Paul’s Cathedral & River Cruise

Explore 10 movie locations and JK Rowling-inspired sites, including St. Paul's Cathedral for panoram ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, River Cruise & London Eye

Explore on a journey through over 10 Wizarding world movie locations of JK Rowling, cruise along the ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, Clink Prison Museum & River Cruise

Explore JK Rowling Wizard-inspired London sites, visit the Clink Prison Museum, and enjoy scenic vie ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour & Cursed Child Theatre

Discover Jk Rowling wizard world locations and see buildings that inspired the books on a guided wal ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour & Magical Afternoon Tea

This tour explores famous wizarding movie set locations in London and ends with a magical Afternoon ...

Get the best (and highest!) view in London from The Shard after exploring the top sights of Westmins ...

Lights & Sights Of London: 30+ London Top Sights At Dusk!

An evening walking tour of London's lights - the best way to see London at night! The London's light ...

Private Night Time Taxi Tour

See 30+ London sights beautifully lit against the night sky from the comfort of a Black Cab ...

Harry Potter Taxi Tour

Fly through London’s wizarding world & Potter film locations in an iconic Black Cab ...

Private Harry Potter Taxi Tour

Whizz through the wizarding world & Potter film locations on an iconic Black Cab Private Tour ...

Private Harry Potter Taxi Tour & Clink Prison Entry

Fly through the London's wizarding worlds real filming locations in an iconic Black Cab, then visit ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Thames River Cruise

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then take a cruise along the River Thames ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & London Eye Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then enjoy a ride on the London Eye! ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & St Paul’s Cathedral Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit St Paul's Cathedral ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Tower of London Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit The Tower of London ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Kensington Palace Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit Kensington Palace ...

Private London Sightseeing Taxi Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit the historic Westminster Abbey ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Churchill War Rooms Entry

Discover 50+ top London sights from the comfort of your own Private Black Cab, then explore WW2 hist ...

Private Harry Potter Taxi Tour & Potions Making Class

Whizz through the wizarding world & Potter film locations on an iconic Black Cab Private Tour, then ...

Harry Potter Taxi Tour & Potions Making Class

Fly through London’s wizarding world & Potter film locations in an iconic Black Cab, then try your ...

British Royalty Tour Private Walking Tour

Experience over 20 London royal landmarks with a private guide and learn all about the British Monar ...

Wizard Walking Tour with Tower Bridge Entry

Visit film locations and sights that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard! Then visit famous Tower Br ...

London 30+ Top Sights Tour & Kensington Palace Entry

Join an expert guide to see the best of the Westminster & London Bridge areas, then enter famous Ken ...

Top Westminster Walking Tour with Tower of London & Tower Bridge!

Join an fun local guide to see 20+ of London's famous landmarks, then explore inside Tower of London ...

Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace

Experience the original Royal English Tea with traditional sandwiches, cakes & scones in the grounds ...

St Pauls Cathedral & See Over 30 Top London Sights – Private Tour

See over 30 London sights with an awesome private guide, then enter the incredible St Paul's Cathedr ...

Go Up The Shard & London Landmark Walking Tour (Private)

See over 30 top London sights with a private guide, then get the best view in the city from the top ...

Explore Tower Bridge & London’s Best Landmarks Tour (Private)

Explore 30+ top London landmarks with a private guide and go inside the iconic Tower Bridge! ...

Private Westminster Tour & Visit Westminster Abbey & Churchill War Rooms

See over 20 of London's most iconic sights and visit Westminster Abbey & Churchill War Rooms ...

Visit Kew Gardens & 3 Hour Westminster Private Walking Tour

See over 15 of London's most iconic sights in a 3-hour private walking tour, then explore the stunni ...

Westminster Private Walking Tour & Visit The Tower of London

See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben & 20+ other top sights before entering the infamous Tower of London! ...

Westminster Private Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket

See the top Westminster sights on a fun private 3-hour London walking tour, then enjoy a ride on the ...

Westminster 3-Hour Private Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

See 20+ of London's most iconic sights in a private 3-hour tour, then enter the incredible Churchill ...

Visit Kensington Palace & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour (Private)

Explore the famous landmarks of Westminster with a private guide, then visit Kensington Palace - off ...

The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Join us on a fun 3 hour private walking tour and see the top 20 Attractions in Westminster, and go u ...

St Pauls Cathedral & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Enter London's famous cathedral after seeing the Westminster Area with a private guide - see Bucking ...

Sherlock Holmes Museum & Westminster Walking Tour (Private Tour)

Explore the iconic sights of Westminster with your own private guide, then immerse yourself in the w ...

Westminster 3 Hour Private Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey

We will see over 20 of London’s most iconic sights in this historic walking tour! After the walkin ...

Explore Tower Bridge & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Go inside the iconic Tower Bridge after seeing 20+ top Westminster sights with your own private guid ...

London Private Tour: Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey

Join a 3-hour historic walking tour to explore over 20 of London’s iconic landmarks, followed by a ...

Westminster Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry (Private Tour)

Delve into London's creepiest attraction after enjoying the iconic sights of London's Westminster wi ...

Wonderful Westminster & Windsor (Walking Tour & Visit Windsor Castle) Private Tour

Discover London's most famous sights on a top-rated private 3-hour Westminster Walking Tour, then tr ...

London Private Tour: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben & Westminster Abbey

See over 20 of London’s most iconic sights on a private historic walking tour, then enter Westmins ...

Private Tour : 3 Amazing London Art Galleries 1 tour 1 guide

See the best of the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery & Tate Modern in one incredible tour ...

The Houses of Parliament & London Main Sights Tour

One of the most complete London Walking Tours. You will see everything and then visit the home of Br ...

Visit The Houses of Parliament & 3 Hour Private Westminster Walking Tour

See the iconic sights of London's Westminster with your own private guide, then explore the famous H ...

Visit Kew Gardens & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

You will see 20+ of London’s most iconic sights a 3-hour historic walking tour, then visit the stu ...

Visit St Paul’s Cathedral & Westminster Walking Tour

Step inside Britain's most famous cathedral - the magnificent St Paul's - and explore the best sight ...

Paddington Bear Walking Tour of London

Join this fun walking tour to explore the streets of London and follow in Paddington's pawprints! ...

London: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben & Westminster Abbey

See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the other top sights of Westminster, then enter the incredible W ...

Charles Dickens Museum Entrance Ticket

Discover the incredible story of Charles Dickens' life while you roam around his vintage home in Lon ...

Sherlock Holmes Museum & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

Discover the iconic sights of Westminster with a fun London guide, then step into the world of Brita ...

Amazing London: See The Top 30 Landmarks

Join the best walking tour in London, see 30 Top Landmarks & learn their history from a fun local gu ...

Explore Tower Bridge & Westminster Walking Tour

Explore the famous sights of Westminster with a fun local guide before entering the magnificent Towe ...

Inside Buckingham Palace & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

Step into world-famous Buckingham Palace after seeing the very best of Westminster with an entertain ...

Westminster 3-hour Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry

The authentic british food tour.

Discover two of the most loved areas of London, offering the most delicious and best variety of food ...

Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace

Wimbledon lawn tennis museum entrance ticket.

Visit the largest tennis museum in the world to explore the rich history of The Championships, and s ...

The Foundling Museum Entrance Ticket

The Foundling Museum, one of London's most interesting museums, includes art collection and 18th-cen ...

Royal Albert Hall Tour Entrance Ticket

Discover Britain's most famous and spectacular performance venue - the Royal Albert Hall. Includes a ...

Chelsea Physic Garden Entrance Ticket

Chelsea Physic Garden is a botanical gem, nestled in the heart of London, England, since 1673. ...

Westminster Walking Tour & Visit The Tower of London

Discover 20+ top sights of London in Westminster, then enter the famous Tower of London for some inc ...

Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket

See the top Westminster Sights on a fun 3-hour London walking tour, then enjoy a ride on the London ...

London Tour with Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey

Visit over 20 of London’s most iconic sights in a 3-hour historic walking tour, then enter Westmin ...

Visit The Houses of Parliament & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

See the iconic sights of London's Westminster with a fun local guide, then explore the famous Houses ...

Wonderful Westminster & Windsor (Walking Tour & Visit Windsor Castle)

Discover London's most famous sights on a fun 3-hour Westminster Walking Tour, then travel to the am ...

Wimbledon Tennis & Westminster Landmarks Walking Tour

See the top sights of Westminster in 3 hours before visiting the iconic Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Club! ...

Visit The Clink Prison & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

This is a fun 3 hour walking tour where you will visit the UKs oldest Prison : The Clink! ...

3 hour Westminster Sights Tour & Go On-Board HMS Belfast

This is a fun 3 walking tour of London where you will go on board a WW2 Battleship that saw action i ...

Top London Sights Tour with Westminster Abbey and The Churchill War Rooms

We will see more than 20 of London's most iconic sights and visit two of London’s most iconic attr ...

London’s Amazing Palaces & Parliament Walking Tour

This is a guided London walking tour of Westminster. You will see the main Top London Attractions in ...

Full Royal Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Tour

Visit Buckingham Palace See 15+ Royal London Sights. Fun local guide ...

J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Tour

Join our top J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Tour of London, with over 10 real film locations! Children ...

British Royalty 3 Hour Walking Tour!

We will see 10+ most iconic sights of The British Monarchy in a 3 hour walking tour, with a chance t ...

tours of the shard london

  • Evan Evans Tours
  • Attractions
  • London Attractions

The View from the Shard

Travel 1,016ft into the sky to witness some breathtaking views of London's iconic cityscape and enjoy views of up to 40 miles (64km).

Rising 1,016 ft (310 metres) into the sky, The Shard is Western Europe's tallest skyscraper and offers guests a sensational viewing experience. You'll have access to three different viewing platforms, including a 360° panoramic view with incredible views that stretch up to 40 miles (64km) on a clear day. With no time restriction on your stay, you're free to gaze down at the sprawling city below you and out into the horizon for as long as you like. Plus, treat yourself to a glass of bubbly from London's highest champagne bar.

Opening Hours: Open Daily; hours vary

Venue address : The Shard, London Bridge Street, London, UK

General Admission

  • Guaranteed entry on your selected date and time
  • Birds-eye view over London 1,016ft in the sky
  • Access to the indoor viewing platforms on levels 68 and 69
  • Panoramic Guide
  • Four Digital Photos
  • Access to the open-air Skydeck on level 72
  • No time limit in the attraction

General Admission + Glass of Champagne

  • Glass of Champagne

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Suggested visit duration is a guideline only
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult aged 16+
  • Children aged 0-3 years are free of charge and do not require a ticket to visit The View from The Shard
  • Closing times can vary, so please double-check before visiting
  • Evan Evans e-tickets are only valid for the date and time shown on the ticket
  • Cancellation policy: Tickets can be cancelled up to 24 hours before the booked travel date without charge. Tickets cancelled less than 24 hours before the travel
  • For groups of 10+ guests, please contact [email protected] for prices and availability

PACKAGE OPTIONS​​

  • Entrance to Western Europe's tallest building
  • Access to the indoor viewing platform and the open air Skydeck

What's Included

Share with friends.

  • Share on facebook
  • Tweet article
  • Share article via WhatsApp

From per ADULT

tours of the shard london

The Shard tickets

  • Lowest price
  • Highest price

The View From The Shard entrance tickets

The View From The Shard entrance tickets

Get your tickets to The View from the Shard for admission to the best panorama in London.

Guided tour of Westminster, river cruise and tickets to The Shard

Guided tour of Westminster, river cruise and tickets to The Shard

Book this guided walking tour of the famous Westminster area in London including Buckingham Palace, a cruise along the Thames, and access to The Shard.

Thames Rockets Break the Barrier speedboat ride

Thames Rockets Break the Barrier speedboat ride

Blast your way along the River Thames and see the iconic London sights such as the O2 arena and Tower Bridge on an adrenaline-packed speedboat ride.

Thames Rockets Ultimate London Speedboat Experience

Thames Rockets Ultimate London Speedboat Experience

Blast your way from the iconic London Eye Pier for 50 minutes that will stay with you forever. Instant booking now with Musement!

The London Pass®:  Access 90+ Attractions

The London Pass®: Access 90+ Attractions

Visit as many attractions as you like with The London Pass®. From the London Eye to Madame Tussauds, save on 90+ things to do in London.

River Thames afternoon tea cruise

River Thames afternoon tea cruise

Book your afternoon tea cruise on the Thames for a London boat tour, with front row seats to the best sights with table service for traditional tea.

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers - River Roamer hop-on-hop-off day-tickets

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers - River Roamer hop-on-hop-off day-tickets

Enjoy unlimited access to the fastest fleet on the Thames with this all-day Uber Boats by Thames Clippers pass.

24-hour hop-on, hop-off London bus tour

24-hour hop-on, hop-off London bus tour

Book 24-hour hop-on hop-off access to all of London and enjoy a free walking tour and River Thames boat ride.

en,  it,  fr,  es,  ar,  +5  de, pt, ru, ja, zh

London Landmark Walking Tour with Access to The Shard

London Landmark Walking Tour with Access to The Shard

Experience London from 244 meters above sea level on this exciting walking tour.

The Shard Viewing Gallery and Westminster Private Tour

The Shard Viewing Gallery and Westminster Private Tour

Visit The Shard and ascend to the tallest public viewing platform in London for stunning 360-degree views of the city!

The Shard Viewing Gallery and Westminster Walking Tour

The Shard Viewing Gallery and Westminster Walking Tour

Get to The Shard and enjoy London's highest view!

Thames Lates speedboat experience

Thames Lates speedboat experience

Book your Thames Lates speedboat experience and hit the River Thames to see the sights by night, perfect for mates and dates!

Top attractions in London

tours of the shard london

You might also like

Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus: priority seating with meal

Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus: priority seating with meal

Tower of London tickets plus Crown Jewels and Yeoman Warder walking tour

Tower of London tickets plus Crown Jewels and Yeoman Warder walking tour

Book your tickets to the Tower of London now to see the Crown Jewels and go on a Yeoman Warder walking tour guided by an actual Yeoman.

Film and TV Locations walking tour at the Old Royal Naval College

Film and TV Locations walking tour at the Old Royal Naval College

Book your Film and TV Locations walking tour at the Old Royal Naval College. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the Old Royal Naval College and be guided through over 60 years of filming!

Hard Rock Cafe London priority seating with meal

Hard Rock Cafe London priority seating with meal

Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner, try the authentic American cuisine and explore the Rock 'n' Roll memorabilia collection.

en,  it,  fr,  es,  de,  +3  pt, nl, da

Up at The O2 twilight climb

Up at The O2 twilight climb

Come along on an exhilarating 90-minute climb over the roof of the world's most popular entertainment venue The O2 at twilight!

The Stadium Tour and Museum

The Stadium Tour and Museum

Tower of London, Thames River Ride and Changing of the Guards Tour

Tower of London, Thames River Ride and Changing of the Guards Tour

Visit the Tower of London and cruise the Thames River. See the Changing of the Guards or take a tour through the vibrant city of Westminster.

Tower of London and private audience with Beefeater guard

Tower of London and private audience with Beefeater guard

Book your Tower of London private tour with a Beefeater to get early access to the Jewel House and discover one of the country's most iconic landmarks.

Official National Gallery highlights 1-hour guided tour

Official National Gallery highlights 1-hour guided tour

Book your tickets for a National Gallery guided tour and National Gallery entrance tickets

Tower of London and Private Audience with Beefeater

Tower of London and Private Audience with Beefeater

Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards

Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards

Book this Royal London tour now and skip the general access lines to the Tower of London. Enjoy a cruise up the Thames and a Westminster walking tour.

London Eye tickets

London Eye tickets

Enjoy your London Eye and marvel at the best panoramic views of this iconic city.

The inside story

Instantly recognizable along London's skyline, The Shard is a distinctive and stunning piece of modern architecture.

Soaring above the banks of the River Thames at over 300 meters high, the viewing platforms allow you spectacular 360-degree views over London for up to 64 kilometers.

Uncover the history and cultural background of the iconic sites of London through the multimedia exhibits, and why not make the trip even more special and enjoy a glass of champagne from above the clouds?

tours of the shard london

How to get there

TheBetterVacation.com

View from the Shard – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect, The Slide, FAQs

The Shard, London

The Shard, also referred to as the View from the Shard, is the highest viewing platform in London.

From its three observatories – on floors 68, 69, and 72 – visitors can see 360-degree views of London for up to 65 km (40 miles).

It stands at a height of 300 meters (1,010 feet) and is twice the height of any other viewing platform in London.

It offers visitors 360-degree panoramic views of London up to 40 miles away on a clear day.

The View from the Shard is a truly unique experience, and it’s one that you can’t miss if you are in London.

This article covers everything you must know before buying the View from the Shard tickets.

Top The Shard Tickets

# Shard’s Family tickets # London Pass

Table of contents

What to expect at the shard.

Your journey begins with an exhilarating ride in high-speed elevators, which take you from Level 1 to Level 68 in just sixty seconds.

Level 68 is home to the ticket office and the entrance to the lifts. Visitors can also find a cafe and a gift shop on this level.

The 69th floor has an indoor viewing gallery and a champagne bar.

If you feel brave, you can also head to the Skydeck on the 72nd floor.

The Skydeck is a partially outdoor gallery that offers even more stunning views of London.

On a clear day, you can see iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the River Thames, as well as expansive views of the city.

Besides spectacular views, the indoor viewing gallery is also a great place to learn about the city.

Inside, some touchscreens and displays help you identify landmarks, learn about the city’s history, and trace how London has evolved.

The View from the Shard viewing gallery also offers a selection of food and drinks available at the champagne bar on the 69th floor and the Skydeck Cafe on the 72nd floor.

Enjoy a glass of champagne or sparkling wine while taking in the 360-degree views of London.

The View from the Shard also hosts several events throughout the year, including live music, cocktail masterclasses, and corporate events.

Back to Top

Where to book tickets

Tickets for the View from the Shard are available online or at the attraction.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

The View from the Shard sells only limited tickets, so during peak days, they may sell out.

Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

How do online tickets work

Go to the Shard ticket booking page .

Select the preferred date, time slot, and number of tickets and buy the tickets immediately.

Once you purchase the Shard tickets, they get delivered to your email address.

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket.

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.

Visual Story : 18 must-know tips before visiting The View from The Shard

The View from the Shard ticket price

From Sunday to Friday, the general entry ticket for the View from the Shard is priced at £32 for all visitors above three years. On Saturdays, it costs £37.

From Sunday to Friday, the Shard entry ticket with champagne costs £47 for those above 18 years. On Saturdays, it is priced at £52.

Children under three years can enter for free.

The Shard viewing gallery tickets

If you  buy tickets to the Shard online, you can skip the long lines at the ticket counter and quickly go through the security.

Depending on the day and season, this saves you 15 to 30 minutes of waiting time.

The unique thing about this ticket is the View Guarantee.

If you can’t see at least three specified landmarks due to low visibility, the View from the Shard offers a View Guarantee.

You’ll receive a complimentary return voucher valid for at least three months, allowing you to book a free return standard ticket.

Please claim your free ticket on the same day of your visit before leaving the venue; it cannot be claimed later.

Ticket Prices

Sunday to Friday General ticket (3+ years):  £32

General with champagne ticket   (18+ years):  £47

On Saturdays

General ticket (3+ years):  £37

General with champagne ticket   (18+ years):  £52

Saving with London Pass

The London Pass is a popular discount card, and if you are in London for more than two days, we highly recommend it.

You pay once for the London Pass and use it multiple times to visit various attractions for free.

It helps save up to 50% on your ticket costs.

Go City: London Explorer Pass – Explore London at your own pace and choose 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 attractions to visit from a list of 65+ attractions including the Shard.

Walking tour of 30 landmarks + The Shard

Combo tours that include the Shard are popular with tourists holidaying in London.

There are two reasons for their popularity:

– Combo tours help save money – Since a tour of the Shard takes only two hours, visitors are looking for one more attraction to explore for the day

This combo tour lets you explore London’s 30 most iconic landmarks like Big Ben, London Eye, London Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, etc.

After exploring the city on foot, you will go up the View from the Shard and see the whole of London from a different perspective.

During this six-hour tour, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide.

Tour ticket prices

Adult ticket (14+ years):  £87 Child ticket (3 to 13 years):  £36 Infant ticket (up to 2 years):  Free entry

A few other convenient combinations:  City Cruise + The Shard ,  Tower of London + The Shard , and  Kew Gardens + The Shard .

How to reach View from The Shard

The Shard is located on the south bank of the river Thames close to London Bridge Railway and Underground Station.

The viewing platform is right next to the Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret.

Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom. Get directions .

You can reach the Shard by bus or by car.

London Bridge Bus Station stop D (Buses: N21, N343) is only a few steps from the meeting point.

London Bridge Bus Station (Bus No: 43, 48, 141, 149, 521.) is only 2 minutes from the Shard.

It would be best if you get down at the bus station located at the main entrance of the London Bridge Station.

You can take the Northern or Jubilee lines to get to  London Bridge Underground Station , a quick walk from the Shard. 

Once you exit the London Bridge Underground station, you can’t miss the signs directing you to the Shard or Joiner Street.

Opt for Southern and South-Eastern trains if you plan to take the regular train to  London Bridge Station .

After exiting the London Bridge Station, turn left immediately and go down the escalator, which takes you to Joiner Street and eventually to The Shard.

If you’re traveling by car, turn on your Google Maps and get started.

There are enough parking garages around the attraction.

Opening hours of the View from the Shard

On Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, the Shard View opens at 11 am and closes at 7 pm.

On Fridays and Saturdays, the viewing platform stays open from 10 am to 10 pm.

The attraction remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

How long does the tour take

You need at least two and a half hours to enjoy stunning views of London from all three observatories at the Shard and try out the VR activities.

Visiting during non-peak hours allows you to bypass the 30 to 45 minutes of waiting time and complete the experience in just two hours.

Dining at one of the five restaurants at the Shard will require an additional hour in your schedule.

Tip: Since London Bridge and Tower Bridge are close to the Shard, some tourists add them as the next items on their itinerary.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Shard is from 4 pm to 6 pm, when the viewing deck offers stunning visuals of the London skyline bathed in the setting sun’s colors.

Since most visitors prefer to reach just before the sun goes down and stay on till the lights come out, the Shard gets crowded during these hours.

It is best to visit between 10 am to 2 pm for a quiet time with family and kids.

We don’t recommend a night visit since many landmarks won’t be visible from the viewing deck after dark.

However, if you have already visited during the day, there is no harm in taking in the night view.

Weekend crowd

Avoiding the Shard over the weekends is better because it gets crowded.

However, if you must visit on the weekend, buy your tickets in advance and reach the observatory between 10 am and 2 pm because the crowd starts pouring in after that.

The Shard stays crowded till 7 pm, especially on Saturdays. The ticket prices are also higher during weekends.

Sunset view from The Shard

The  London City Card  includes tickets to the Shard, the Tower of London, and a cruise on the River Thames for as long as you want. You also get a 10% discount code, which you can use (five times!) to get discounts on future purchases.

The Slide at The Shard

Virtual Reality at The Shard

The Slide is the Shard’s virtual reality experience, where users can swoop and slide through the city’s skyline, traveling up to 160 kph (100 mph) past London’s important landmark. 

The adrenaline-fuelled 360-degree virtual reality experience is a multi-sensory journey hit with both kids and adults. 

The experience is almost as if you are sliding from the top of the Shard.

The Slide is not part of the regular ticket, and extra charges apply. 

Is The Shard better at day or night?

If you want to see a 360-degree view of London’s buildings and skyline and appreciate the beauty of the River Thames, visit The Shard during the day.

If you want to see the magical glitter of London’s lights and utter a dramatic ‘wow,’ visit the observation deck at night.

View from the Shard during the day

Day time view from The Shard

On a clear day, you can see the city up to 65 km (40 miles) in all directions.

In the daylight, the reflecting glass panels make the views of the city more dazzling.

However, there is always the possibility of poor weather in the early mornings, and it is best to check the weather conditions before your visit.

Note: The reflective glass panels in the sun might make it hard to take photos.

View from the Shard at night

Night time view from The Shard

Viewing from the Shard during the night is a very different experience because of the lit-up skyline.

Structures like the Tower Bridge and the London Eye have lighting effects of their own, which visitors can see only at night.

Nevertheless, capturing the beauty of these iconic landmarks under the stars can be challenging without a quality camera.

Our recommendation

The best time to visit the Shard is right before the sunset because you can enjoy the best parts of the day view, sunset, and darkened skyline once the night falls.

The tickets for the sunset hours, i.e., 4 pm-6 pm, sell out first, so  book the Shard tickets  right away.

The Shard vs. London Eye

Many tourists compare the Shard and the  London Eye  because they offer views from the two highest platforms in London.

At its highest point, the London Eye is 443 feet (135 meters) tall, and the observation deck of The Shard stands at a glorious height of 800 feet (244 meters).

The London Eye offers a view of around 40 Km (25 Miles), while Tthe Shard’s observation deck provides sights of up to 65 km (40 miles) in every direction.

However, one full rotation of the London Eye takes 30 minutes, and you have limited time to enjoy the view from the highest point – when your pod is at its most elevated position.

The Shard has no such time limit. You can stay for as long as you want and enjoy the London skyline.

Another significant difference between the two attractions is the waiting time.

A visit to London Eye involves a lot of waiting time because of the crowd it attracts, while the waiting time at the Shard doesn’t exceed 30 to 45 minutes.

The Shard’s tickets might be more expensive than London Eye’s, but it offers unlimited time at the top, and the waiting times are also much less.

We recommend you visit both, but if you have to choose only one vantage point to check out stunning views of London – The Shard certainly has the edge over the London Eye.

View from the Shard reviews

At 4.5 out of 5, The View from The Shard is highly rated on Tripadvisor .

Check out a few of the reviews that will help you decide.

Better than other lookouts I’ve been to

I had done the London Eye previously, so I was unsure if it was worth going to the Shard. But once I arrived at the top and saw the fantastic views I instantly changed my mind! It’s much higher up than the London Eye so you can see more. I have been to other lookouts (e.g. A’DAM in Amsterdam, TV tower in Berlin) and I have to say The Shard was the best out of them all. It was not too crowded, and everything was to a very high standard. Kiwijamo , Auckland

Breathtaking!

This has to be a must-do item when visiting London. The views over London are spectacular! I also had a drink in the bar, which was great. The staff is helpful and friendly. Despite the fact it was raining we still enjoyed the views! Minkygirl , Grantham

FAQs about the View from the Shard

Here are some FAQs about the View from the Shard.

Is there a time limit for my visit to the Shard’s viewing platform?

No, there is no time restriction on your visit. You can enjoy the experience for as long as you like, all the way up until the closing time for the day.

What if I’m running late for my visit to the View from the Shard?

If you arrive up to 15 minutes after the time stated on your ticket, you can still enter. However, if you are later than that, you may be required to pay a re-booking fee.

Can I bring food and drink to the Shard observation deck?

No, only food and drink purchased within the View from the Shard are allowed in the viewing gallery. You can buy hot and cold drinks, as well as snacks, on Level 69 and Level 72 during your visit.

Is parking available at the Shard for visitors traveling by car?

No, there are no parking or drop-off facilities. However, there are privately owned car parks in the local area, with the nearest one being approximately a five-minute walk away from the attraction.

Is the Shard’s viewing gallery accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the Shard is wheelchair accessible, and they offer facilities and assistance for visitors with disabilities. It’s advisable to contact them in advance for specific needs.

Source # The-shard.com # Britannica.com # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists  at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

Popular attractions in London

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Check out all the things to do in London

This article was researched & written by

Jamshed V Rajan

He is a two-faced traveler, who enjoys both the hustle-bustle of an urban holiday and the serenity of a break from the rest of the World. During some of his vacations, he is a resort hopper, and on others, he barely spends time in his hotel. He loves to try mouth-watering local cuisines, especially non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

2 thoughts on “View from the Shard – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect, The Slide, FAQs”

The viewing platforms are well worth a visit, offering great views and a well-organized experience. The staff are very helpful and knowledgeable. While the bar is expensive, you can stay as long as you like. After walking around and enjoying the views, you’re pretty much done, but if you could leave and return for free in the evening, it would be fantastic to see the city in the dark too.

Our kids gave us a Virgin gift for a visit to The Shard and a meal at the steakhouse. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the views were fantastic. We both enjoyed a cocktail, and I loved the ice cream cone. There was a short 25-minute tour by a funny and knowledgeable guide named Chris, who explained The Shard in simple terms. We weren’t rushed at all and even saw Tower Bridge open twice. I highly recommend this attraction to everyone.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

FireStorm Internet runs this website to provide the most accurate and up-to-day information about tourist attractions.

Our Address

FireStorm Internet, 203, 30C, Bollineni Hillside, Perumbakkam Main Road, Nookampalayam, Chennai, India. Pin Code: 600126

About Us Advertise with Us The Team Contact Us Affiliate Disclaimer Content Policy Privacy Policy Terms of Service

Food Tours Ghost Tours Stadium Tours HOHO Bus Tours Best Cruises Best Zoos Travel Tips Visual Stories

© 2024 FireStorm Internet

TheUltimateGuideToVisitingTheViewFromTheShardBanner

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the view from The Shard in 2024

The view from the shard ultimate guide.

When looking across the London skyline, it’s pretty hard to miss The Shard (it is 306-metres high and the second tallest free-standing structure in the UK, after all). The Shard, (also known as “The Shard of Glass” or “The London Bridge Tower”), boasts 87 stories, 13 floors of residence, five restaurants, an open-air observation deck, and a viewing gallery. But for visitors and tourists, The Shard offers an amazing viewing experience of the London skyline that you won’t be able to find anywhere else in the city – or even the world.

The Shard was built to resemble “a shard of glass through the heart of historic London” (hence the name) and was first constructed in 2009. The building contains facades of angled glass planes which reflect both the sunlight and the sky, and in doing so its appearance miraculously changes with the weather and seasons. The Shard was also built to maintain stability under “onerous” conditions thanks to its post-tensioned concrete floors, load-bearing pillars, and a tapering shape which allows it to sway to a maximum of 400 millimeters.

Because of its unique and ground-breaking design, The Shard won first place at the 2014 Emporis Skyscraper Awards, which recognizes buildings over 100 metres completed in the previous year. The judges of the competition decided to award The Shard with the winning prize because of its immediately recognizable construction and its representation as “London’s new emblem.”

The Shard has appeared in several different movies, films and TV shows since its completion, such as The Snowman And The Snowdog, in a 2013 Doctor Who episode “The Bells of Saint John” and even a 2014 episode of The Simpsons titled “Treehouse of Horror.”

tours of the shard london

The View from the Shard Highlights

The View From The Shard (or The Shard’s main viewing gallery) is The Shard’s primary highlight that shouldn’t be missed by any visitor.

The View From The Shard is located at level 69 (spanning three levels of decks up to level 72) and it allows visitors to view a spectacular 360-degree view of the London skyline. On a clear day, visitors can easily see up to 40 miles (or 64 km) of London’s skyline, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, the Tower Bridge, London Bridge station and even the Houses of Parliament.

Visitors can also use The Shard’s digital telescopes (or “tell:scopes”) which have touch screens so you can zoom in on each tourist attraction, and read more on over 200 different tourist attractions in London. You can also view some pre-recorded time views of the city, so you can see what the tourist attractions look like during different times of the day or night.

At level 72, where the two separate panels of The Shard taper together, visitors can view the sky through the slanted glance and open-air tip, which provides a once-in-a-lifetime viewing experience.

On the ground-floor of The Shard, visitors can watch a screen play footage of London’s various attractions (like the Canary Wharf, London Eye and Mudchute Park and Farm), and view a panel illustrating some of the most recognizable faces of London (like The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Spice Girls, and many more).

Even taking the lift is a tourist activity in itself, thanks to a lightning speed which can take you up the higher levels of the building within seconds.

tours of the shard london

Special Tips

tours of the shard london

Getting There

Visiting the view from the shard.

Be prepared to schedule at least 45 to 60 minutes if you want to visit The Shard’s viewing gallery, and you will also need to pass through an airport-style security scanner once you enter the building.

Hand-held electronic guides with headphones are available for all visitors, which give detailed information on the different landmarks you can see from the viewing platforms during your visit.

If you happen to visit The Shard on a rainy or foggy day, you will be issued a free ticket so you can return to The Shard within three months. If during your visit you miss out on seeing at least three major London landmarks (The London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Gherkin, Tower Bridge or One Canada Square), you can speak to a member of staff at the ticket desk on the first level for your free return ticket.

tours of the shard london

Ticket prices and Opening hours

Unfortunately the admission prices of The Shard are as steep as its height, but don’t let that deter you from visiting this fantastic tourist attraction in London.

The ticket prices for The View from The Shard are as follows:

  • from £28.50 up to £37 for general entry per person (ages 4 and over)
  • £45 with champagne included (or non-alcoholic alternative) per person (ages 4 and over)
  • £25 per person for group of 10 or more

Children under the age of four can get into The Shard for free, however their tickets need to be booked beforehand through The Shard’s official website.

The opening hours for The View from The Shard generally vary throughout the year. Typically, it is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with last entry at 9:00 p.m. However, hours may change on specific dates due to events or maintenance. Be sure to check out the official website before you visit.

If you're planning a visit to The Shard, be sure to check out some of the free tours of London to explore many more iconic sites.

tours of the shard london

Free Tours in Your Language

Discover Walks Blog

  • Virginia Beach
  • History & facts
  • Famous people
  • Famous landmarks
  • AI interviews
  • Science & Nature
  • Tech & Business

English

Discover something new everyday

  • Famous places
  • Food & Drinks
  • Tech & Business

Famous places , London , Travel

Visiting The Shard in London: Guide, Tickets and Facts

tours of the shard london

Read Next →

mapsoflondonyouneed3

Maps of London you need

Things to do Near Gare du Nord Station

Things to do Near Gare du Nord Station

Top 20 souvenirs to bring back from Paris

Paris - Our top 10 lists

Top 45 souvenirs to bring back from Paris

What should i do at the shard.

tours of the shard london

Internal structure of the Shard – By Michaelmas1957 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24496430

Prices and Tickets

tours of the shard london

The Shard as part of the London City skyline – By Quist – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=81369872

Best Time to Visit

tours of the shard london

The Shard dominating the City of London Skyline in 2013 – By Cmglee – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=27300860

How to get here

tours of the shard london

The inauguration of The Shard in 2012 – By Richard Goldschmidt, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=26167285

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are  Amazon’s best-selling  travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

  • The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
  • Fodor’s Paris 2024 –  Learn more here

Travel Gear

  • Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack –  Learn more here
  • Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage –  Learn more here
  • Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle –  Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

Emma is a professional soccer player who has been traveling around Europe for the past 4 years. She enjoys hiking each country’s highest peaks and backpacking long-distance trails when she is in her off-season. Exploring new places, meeting different people, and writing about her experiences is the best ‘job’ she could ever ask for.

Hello & Welcome

Emma Starr

Popular Articles

tours of the shard london

Top 20 Streets to See in Paris

walking tuileries path

Paris in two days

Eiffel Tower

Top 15 Things to do Around the Eiffel Tower

Paris-museums

The Best Way to Visit Paris Museums

fashion-shops-Paris

Top 15 Fashion Stores in Le Marais

Visit europe with discover walks.

  • Paris walking tours
  • Montmartre walking tour
  • Lisbon walking tours
  • Prague walking tours
  • Barcelona walking tours
  • Private tours in Europe
  • Privacy policy

© 2024 Charing Cross Corporation

tours of the shard london

THE FLASHPACKER

  • Liechtenstein
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Solo Location Guides
  • Solo Travel Advice
  • Solo Inspiration
  • Luxury travel

DESTINATIONS , ENGLAND , EUROPE

How to visit the shard for free: a local’s guide.

Get the lowdown on how to visit The Shard for free

The Shard is one of London’s most recognisable landmarks and has become a must-see attraction for Londoners and visitors alike.

Soaring to a height of almost 310 meters above the River Thames, it is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and the seventh-tallest in Europe. It is home to The View from The Shard, the highest viewpoint in London.

Take it from me; the views from this lofty height are sensational. But this panorama will blast a hole in your wallet.

The good news is that there are two ways that you can gain free entry to The Shard: using a London tourist pass and visiting one of the building’s bars or restaurants. Here’s how to do it.

the pointed building of the shard alongside the river thames in london

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

What is The View from The Shard?

The View from the Shard comprises three observation decks at the top of The Shard building- on the 68th, 69th and 72nd floors – offering 360-degree views of London and up to 40 miles beyond. The 72nd-floor viewing platform rises 256 metres above ground level, making it twice the height of any other viewing platform in London.

How Much is a Ticket for The View from Shard?

In 2024, tickets for The View from The Shard start from £28.50. The best prices are available if you book more than four days in advance.

What Can You See from The Shard?

For my money, The View from The Shard is one of the best viewpoints in London.

Looking west, London’s bridges follow the curve of the river, including the iconic Tower Bridge. From your lofty vantage point, famous landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London , the Walkie-Talkie building and The Gherkin look like toy models.

aerial view from the shard of the river thames and 4 of its bridges

Further west, you can see The London Eye and the Palace of Westminster.

Downriver, the shimmering towers of Canary Wharf and the O2 are clearly visible.

aerial view from the shard of the river thames and skyscrapers and tower bridge

In the far north, there’s the arch of Wembley Stadium and the open expanse of Hampstead Heath. Landmarks are a little scarcer to the south, but a notable exception is the towers of Battersea Power Station.

aerial view of the city of london

How to Visit The Shard for Free

So you’d like to see these views but don’t want to part with £28+ of your hard-earned cash? I don’t blame you.

There are two ways to gain free entry to the Shard: using one of the London tourist passes or visiting one of the restaurants in the Shard .

Let me be clear; neither of these ways is completely free. But if you are canny you will pay less than the price of a ticket for The View from The Shard and maybe – just maybe – take in the view whilst sipping on an Espresso Martini.

Visit The Shard with a London Pass

Like many major cities, London has tourist passes: the Go City® London All-Inclusive Pass and London Explorer Pass. These give you free entry to many of the city’s top attractions, including The View from The Shard.

Unlike many traditional city passes, the  London Explorer Pass  offers access to a predetermined number of attractions over a generous 60-day time window. The London All-Inclusive Pass provides access to an unlimited number of included attractions over a predetermined number of days.

For most first-time visitors to London, these passes can save you money. Even as a Londoner, I would be tempted to buy the London Explorer Pass. But whether either of these passes will be good value will depend on what else you plan to see and do in London.

You can check the price of the London Explorer Pass  here and the London All-Inclusive Pass here .

Visit one of the restaurants at The Shard

The Shard is much more than just a viewpoint. This vertical city is home to a 26-floor office complex, restaurants, the 5-star Shangri-La Hotel and apartments for ten lucky residents.

There are six restaurants at The Shard. Although none of these reaches the dizzy heights of level 68 and beyond, Aqua Shard offers the best views in the building. Located on Level 31 its double-height glass walls envelop you in London’s skyline. 

It’s not cheap but the food is reliably good and it also offers weekend brunch and afternoon tea.

plate of eggs benedict

Although the restaurant takes walk-ins, booking ahead is recommended.

A cheaper option to visit The Shard for free is to have a drink in the bar at Aqua Shard . This operates on a walk-in basis only and is subject to capacity.

man cleaning glasses behind a high class bar

But Aqua Shard is not your only option for free entry to The Shard. Here’s a quick lowdown on its other bars and restaurants with a view.

Gong – this sophisticated bar on the 52nd floor of The Shard serves champagne and cocktails with a jaw-dropping view thrown in for free.

Sky Lounge – this elegant lounge on level 34 serves drinks and light bites and offers a Sunday Brunch

Ting restaurant . – located on the 35th floor, its floor-to-ceiling windows offer those prized 360-degree views of London. It serves British dishes with an Asian twist and is open for breakfast and afternoon tea.

Hutong – this Chinese restaurant on level 33 is open for lunch and dinner.

Oblix – on the 32nd floor, this restaurant is split across two different spaces offering views across central London from East to West. It serves award-winning cocktails and afternoon tea

Reservations are recommended for all.

Getting There

It’s easy to get to The View from The Shard from London Bridge Underground Station or London Bridge (railway) Station.

When exiting the underground station, turn right out of the ticket hall and follow the signs for The Shard or Joiner Street. If you are walking from London Bridge Station, turn left and go down the escalator.

The Shard is also served by buses 43, 48, 141, 149, and 521, which stop at the bus station outside the main entrance to London Bridge Station. London hop-on-hop-off buses also stop close by.

The Shard’s address is Joiner Street, London SE1 9QU. An  area map is here .

A Fabulous Free Alternative to The Shard

Wrapped around the top of the Walkie-Talkie building, the Sky Garden is also a popular London viewpoint. Best of all, the Sky Garden is completely free.

The Sky Garden is more than a viewpoint . It is a lush leafy sanctuary in the sky, home to Mediterranean and South African species that have been chosen to work in harmony with the space and light.

Like The Shard, it offers 360-degree views of London, albeit from a lower vantage point. There is more space to wander around and sit, and there is a reasonably priced bar.

kyscrapers through the curved windows of sky garden london framed by palm trees

The downside? You need to book in advance and entry slots can be hard to come by unless you are quick off the mark

READ THIS NEXT : Visiting The Sky Garden, London: Tips From a Local Expert

bridget coleman the flashpacker 2

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner and has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

COMMENTS

  1. The View From The Shard

    welcome to yourelevated experience. Journey to the top of London's iconic Shard. Situated just moments away from London Bridge station, your ascent begins with a high-speed lift, whisking you from Level 1 to Level 68 in only sixty seconds. Upon arrival, visit the exclusive Level 69 viewing gallery for breathtaking panoramic views of the capital.

  2. The Best View of London

    London's highest and best view is situated at the top of The Shard, on floors 68, 69 and 72. At almost twice the height of any other viewing platform in the capital, it offers visitors unparalleled 360-degree views for up to 40 miles. Begin your journey in extraordinary high-speed lifts that carry you from Level 1 to Level 68 in sixty seconds.

  3. Your Experience

    London's highest champagne bar. The most exclusive way to experience the breathtaking view from the top of The Shard. As well as entry to our viewing platforms, this ticket also includes a glass of Champagne or a non-alcoholic alternative, £10 credit to spend in our retail store, and a digital photo package. Book Now.

  4. The Shard, London

    Buy a London Explorer Pass® and get 2 to 7 credits to redeem against entry at 90+ top attractions, landmarks, museums and tours. With options including the Tower of London, Shakespeare's Globe, The View from the Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral and more, it's time to tick off your bucket list!

  5. TICKETS

    Book your ticket now and visit The View from The Shard - one of London's most popular tourist attractions! The View from The Shard. NYE 2024 NYE 2024 Sign up to the newsletter. TICKETS. Scroll for more Menu. Search. Close. Menu Close. Show in single column. Off

  6. The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour

    Along the way, you'll see many of London's iconic sights, including Buckingham Palace, Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, The London Eye and Parliament Square. You can even see the Changing of the Guard (certain days only)! The tour is 5 hours in duration (3 hours Westminster Walking Tour & 2 hours at The Shard.

  7. London Shard, London

    London Shard Tours and Tickets. 22,570 reviews. Piercing the sky like a gigantic shard of glass, the London Shard is a spectacular sight. This architectural wonder, designed by Renzo Piano, is not only one of the city's most iconic structures—it also boasts the highest observation deck in London. ... London Shard hours of operation: April ...

  8. The View from the Shard tickets and visitor information

    How to book tickets to View from the Shard. Tickets to The View from The Shard cost £28.00 per person. Admittance is free for children aged three and under. You can book tickets with the attraction directly. Alternatively, The View from The Shard is amongst the attractions available to book with the London Pass*.

  9. The View from The Shard Ticket with Champagne Option 2024

    Get your ticket to 'The View from The Shard' and enjoy sweeping vistas of the London cityscape. As the tallest building in Western Europe, the Shard offers panoramic views of up to 40 miles (64 km) across the capital. Take a high-speed elevator to one of the viewing decks and marvel at the sights, including great angles of main attractions like ...

  10. London: The View from The Shard

    Full description. Watch the streets of London fall away as you climb to Western Europe's tallest viewing platform on the 72nd floor of The Shard. With a flexible ticket, spend as much time as you like enjoying panoramic views of the city, with visibility of up to 40 miles. Test your limits and step outside onto the open viewing platform on ...

  11. The View from The Shard

    1 hour. Low. Non-guided. Travel 1,016ft into the sky to witness some breathtaking views of London's iconic cityscape and enjoy views of up to 40 miles (64km). Rising 1,016 ft (310 metres) into the sky, The Shard is Western Europe's tallest skyscraper and offers guests a sensational viewing experience. You'll have access to three different ...

  12. The View from the Shard Tickets

    The 95-story Shard was designed by world-renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano. This architectural marvel is the tallest building in the European Union, and its distinctive shape has redefined the London skyline. If you visit The View From The Shard, you'll get a breathtaking 360° view of London from more than 300 m above the city.

  13. The BEST The Shard Tours 2024

    London: The London Pass® with 90+ Attractions and Tours See all that London has to offer with the London Pass® and save up to 50%* vs buying individual tickets. Enjoy access to historic landmarks, top attractions, world-famous museums, fun activities, stadium tours and more with this complete sightseeing credits package.

  14. The Shard Tickets and Tours in London

    4.5 /5. (17) from: $45.00. Activities. Book your skip-the-line tickets to The Shard in London. Step into the high-speed elevator of the tallest building in Europe and enjoy stunning views of London!

  15. The View from the Shard

    Walking tour of 30 landmarks + The Shard. Combo tours that include the Shard are popular with tourists holidaying in London. There are two reasons for their popularity: - Combo tours help save money - Since a tour of the Shard takes only two hours, visitors are looking for one more attraction to explore for the day

  16. The View from The Shard Tickets

    The best views of London are from the viewing platforms of the Shard, with an unrivaled 360° look over the city. Get your View from the Shard tickets today! The 95-story Shard is an architectural marvel and one of the tallest buildings in the European Union, securing its ranking as one of the 100 tallest buildings in the world.

  17. The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the view from The Shard in 2024

    THE VIEW FROM THE SHARD ULTIMATE GUIDE. Open: Every day: 10:00AM to 10:00PM. Time Needed: 1.5 hours. Price: £28.50. When looking across the London skyline, it's pretty hard to miss The Shard (it is 306-metres high and the second tallest free-standing structure in the UK, after all). The Shard, (also known as "The Shard of Glass" or ...

  18. The Shard: Inspiring change

    The Shard: Inspiring change. An icon of modern London, a vertical city where people can live, work and relax. The Shard's seven restaurants offer an eclectic mix of cuisine from around the world. Experience the entire city like never before with a trip to The View from The Shard. The Shard offers world-class events and experiences, each one ...

  19. The Shard

    Recommended. Bus Tours. from. $400.69. per adult (price varies by group size) The area. 32 London Bridge Street, London SE1 9SG England. Neighborhood: Southwark. Even before the arrival of the instantly iconic Shard, the riverside scene in Southwark had moved well beyond any up-and-coming phase of development.

  20. Visiting The Shard in London: Guide, Tickets and Facts

    Check out sites like Visit London, The View from The Shard, or Tour Scanner. If you head to London on a romantic holiday with your partner, then you can enjoy the Champagne Experience. Enjoy a glass of Champagne and admission to The Shard for just a little bit extra! Plus, you can splurge on a private guided tour to find out more interesting ...

  21. How to save £4 on The Shard Tickets + Top 9 Things to Know

    2.1 Official website. When buying your entry tickets for the View from The Shard from the official website, you will see two different prices displayed, with not much explanation of what the difference is. Well, they offer a reduced rate of £28 if you buy your tickets 4 or more days in advance.

  22. How to Visit The Shard for Free: A Local's Guide

    If you are walking from London Bridge Station, turn left and go down the escalator. The Shard is also served by buses 43, 48, 141, 149, and 521, which stop at the bus station outside the main entrance to London Bridge Station. London hop-on-hop-off buses also stop close by. The Shard's address is Joiner Street, London SE1 9QU. An area map is ...

  23. GO CITY

    Marketing Permissions. The View From The Shard will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing. Please let us know all the ways you would like to hear from us: Email. You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us ...

  24. The Shard

    The Shard (en français l'« éclat », l'« esquille » de verre), anciennement The London Bridge Tower, est un gratte-ciel de bureaux et de logements de luxe situé dans l'arrondissement de Southwark, sur la rive sud de la Tamise et face à la Cité de Londres (Royaume-Uni).Inaugurée le 5 juillet 2012, la tour fut baptisée The Shard à la suite des critiques qu'elle avait essuyées de la ...

  25. London: London Pass® Save up to 50%

    Hop-on a London bus tour or river cruise, get historical at the Tower of London; Join a food tour, jump on stage at Shakespeare's Globe and more! ... • Tower of London • The Lastminute.com London Eye • The View from the Shard • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off London Bus Tour (Big Bus Tours) • Uber Boat by Thames Clippers - 1-day Hop-on Hop-off ...