The Shard

The basics

For most visitors, the star attraction is the bird eye view from The Shard’s open-air Skydeck, which affords a spectacular vista of London landmarks such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, London Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and even (on a clear day) the distant Windsor Castle. Visitors can opt for a day or evening visit, splurge to add Champagne, or combine skip-the-line admission with another sight.

Things to know before you go

• Since London Shard tickets are timed for entry, booking in advance is recommended.Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you’d like.

• The main viewing galleries at The Shard sit on levels 68, 69, and 72.

• For security reasons, all guests must pass through metal detectors and have their bags scanned before entering the building.

• Free Wi-Fi is available on-site.

• The Shard is fully wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

The Shard is located in Southwark, a vibrant area in central London. It’s just a short walk from London Bridge, a major transport hub, and Borough Market, a renowned food market.The closest tube station is London Bridge, served by the Jubilee and Northern lines.

When to get there

The Shard is open year-round, and thanks to the London Landmarks Guarantee—if you can’t spot at least three of the city’s top landmarks, you can revisit for free in better weather—there’s no bad time to visit. If you're hoping to avoid the crowds, it's best to visit outside the peak summer season or opt for an early-morning weekday time slot. For the most atmospheric views, consider an evening visit to admire the glowing London skyline.

The Shard by the numbers

Standing a dizzying 1,016 feet (309.6 meters) high, The Shard is the tallest building in Western Europe and features a shimmering facade comprising some 11,000 panes of glass, with 44 elevators and 306 flights of stairs. At 800 feet (244 meters) high, the observation deck is twice as high as any other London viewpoint, and the 360-degree panoramic views stretch up to 40 miles (64 kilometers) away on a clear day.

Ways to explore

The Shard’s star attraction is the View from the Shard observation deck on floors 68, 69, and 72. From the capital’s highest viewing platform, you can see landmarks such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and even the royal residence of Windsor Castle on a clear day. Opt for a daytime or evening visit, or splurge to add Champagne and digital photos. You can also admire The Shard from afar during a River Thames sightseeing cruise or a ride on the London Eye.

Accessibility

The View from the Shard is fully accessible, thanks to high-speed lifts, and has accessible toilets. Free carer tickets are offered. Service animals are permitted.

Age limits

None

What to pack

If you hope to visit the open-air level 72, bring a jacket as it can be subject to strong winds.

What to wear

Casual attire is ideal for the observation deck, but the restaurants and bars request smarter dress.

Not allowed

Outside food and drink, large bags, luggage, drones, smoking

Amenities

Restaurants, bars, hotel with spa, restrooms, Wi-Fi, stroller parking area

Address

The Shard is located in Southwark, a vibrant area in central London. It’s just a short walk from Borough Market, hailed as the capital’s best food market. Southwark is easily accessible via public transport.

Driving

Save yourself stress and avoid driving in London, where the roads are clogged with traffic and you’ll be subject to a daily Congestion Charge that costs far more than an all-day travel pass for the tube. Opt for a cab or rideshare instead.

Public transportation

The closest station to The Shard is London Bridge, served by the Jubilee and Northern tube lines, and mainline trains. Multiple buses stop in the area, including routes 17, 43, 47, 141, 149, 343, 381, and 388.

Best times to visit

If visiting the observation deck, arrive early in the morning once the dawn mist has dissipated for clear views. Sunset is also prime time.

Best days to visit

Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds. Aim for a clear and sunny day for the best visibility.

Best months to visit

In spring and summer, when the nights are longer and the weather is better for enjoying the open-air observation deck.

Special events

The Shard hosts silent discos, afternoon tea, and special dining experiences. If you bag a New Year’s Eve ticket, you’ll have unrivaled views of London’s spectacular fireworks display.