London Visit: The View From The Shard. It was our one-year anniversary of moving south of the river to London SE1. To celebrate, we booked brunch at Aqua Shard followed by The View From The Shard. If you want panoramic views of London or things to do near London Bridge, book your tickets now!
The Shard
The View From The Shard Dining Experiences
Homeboy and I moved into the area (Bankside, Borough, Bermondsey) a year ago on Saturday. We are lucky to catch a glimpse of London’s tallest building every day when we leave our apartment. It’s become a welcome sight for us, guiding us home if we ever get lost! We wanted to celebrate in style, so we bought tickets to see London in all its glory from the top of The Shard. As we were walking towards The Shard that day the light was reflecting from the windows to cast rays of light across the blue skies. It was beautiful and very special.
The Shard Shadow
We started our morning with brunch at Aqua Shard which was fabulous because of the delicious food and the views. Read my Aqua Shard Review. The Aqua Shard has a very good £44 three-course extravaganza at the weekend. The other restaurants at The Shard include Oblix (contemporary restaurant with two spaces), Hutong (Northern Chinese cuisine) and Ting (Modern British with Asian Twist). If you fancy cocktails, try Bar 31 or Gong. Depending on the time and day you are visiting The Shard, this will determine which restaurant tor bar is best suited to your experience. You can choose from breakfast, brunch, lunch, Sunday lunch, afternoon tea, dinner or cocktails.
The View From The Shard Panoramic Views of London
The Shard, designed by Renzo Piano, is Western Europe’s tallest building at 244m high. On a clear day, you can see 40 miles into the distance. The View From The Shard has an indoor and semi-open-air option. You take two high-speed lifts to reach floor 68 where you catch your first view. Venture up to Level 69 to the Observation Deck and champagne bar.
Indoor Viewing
If the weather is lovely head to the Open-Air Skydeck on Level 72. Look up and you can see the sky through the shards of glass. This space has artificial grass covering the ground which entices many people to sit down. Try not to plonk yourself right in front of the windows as this is a tad annoying for those who want to look out the windows! The Moet and Chandon Bar here is the highest bar in London so you really need a glass of champers to toast that!
Open-Air Skydeck
You are treated to 360 degrees of breathtaking views across London. Look out for the iconic landmarks including Tower Bridge, The London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Walkie Talkie, Once Canada Square and more. If it’s a misty or foggy day and you can’t see at least three of the major landmarks you can return for free within three months.
The View From The Shard Information
The Shard Entrance
To find out more go to The View From The Shard Website. It’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait too long. There are two queues, one for tickets and fast track, the other for walk-ins. Standard adult tickets are £27.20 if you pre-book, £32 on the day. If you want to treat yourself buy a premium or VIP ticket. You can stay at The Shard for as long as you like (until it closes obviously), I would say you need about an hour. Check the website for packages and experiences such as Power Pilates.
Gift Shop
Opening times are Sunday to Wednesday 10 am until 8 pm and Thursday to Saturday from 10 am until 10 pm. There are places to buy refreshments including coffee and snacks. Treat yourself to a souvenir on your way out. The address is 32 London Bridge Street, SE1 9SG. The nearest station is London Bridge, follow exit signs to The Shard, the entrance is located on the St Thomas Street side of the station. Book those tickets now and enjoy your visit!
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. Thanks: Homeboy for joining me.
