The Gherkin

The basics

The Gherkin is not typically open to the public, although the top floor hosts a private member’s club and there are a number of bars and restaurants in the piazza at the base of the building.

Enjoy impressive views of The Gherkin during a London Thames River evening cruise or a ride on the London Eye; see the landmark up close on a walking tour of historic London; or combine a visit with nearby London attractions like London Bridge, The Monument, the Tower of London, or St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Things to know before you go

• The Gherkin is not open for tours. Visitors can only access it by booking events, dining at its restaurants, or attending special occasions like Open House London.

• Most of the bars and restaurants in the building are wheelchair-accessible.

• It’s officially called 30 St Mary Axe. The Gherkin is its nickname, inspired by its unique shape.

• Dining is exclusive. Searcys, a high-end restaurant and bar with stunning 360-degree views, occupies the top floors, but you typically need a reservation to visit.

• You can visit during special events. Occasionally, The Gherkin participates in city-wide events, like Open House London, when its doors are open to the public.

How to get there

Located in the City of London financial district, The Gherkin is within walking distance of the Tower of London, the Monument, and Old Spitalfields Market. The closest tube stations are Aldgate on the Circle and Metropolitan lines, and Liverpool Street Station on the Central, Hammersmith & City, Circle, and Metropolitan lines.

When to get there

The Gherkin is open to the public only during select occasions, such as dining at its restaurant or bar or during special events like Open House London. These opportunities can book up quickly, so plan ahead.

If you’re in the area to admire the architecture, weekdays during working hours are best for a bustling city vibe, while weekends offer a quieter atmosphere. Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, is ideal for capturing the building in its best light.

The Gherkin: an architectural marvel

Largely regarded as a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, The Gherkin’s award-winning design was the work of British architect Norman Foster, whose company also renovated buildings such as the Reichstag in Berlin, London City Hall, and Wembley Stadium. While best known for its resemblance to—you guessed it—a gigantic gherkin, the eye-catching design also includes energy-saving features like double glazing and natural ventilation through spiraling light wells and ventilation shafts.

Winner of the prestigious Stirling Prize, The Gherkin’s sleek, modern design is as functional as it is iconic. Visitors who dine at the 40th-floor restaurant and bar, Searcys, can enjoy a panoramic view of London, while the office space is home to major companies like Swiss Re and Sky News.

Ways to explore

To enjoy a meal or drinks in The Gherkin, you need to prebook a table and pay a deposit. You can book online up to five weeks in advance for dinner and afternoon tea. Tip: Ask for a window seat, even if they can’t guarantee you’ll get one.

If you’re more interested in The Gherkin’s modernist architecture, join a City of London walking tour or an architecture tour. Tour options include private guides, group tours, or self-guided audio tours that you download to your phone. On tours, you’ll typically learn about its architect, Norman Foster, its energy-efficient design, and its huge number of glass panels—apparently enough to cover five soccer pitches.

Accessibility

Access to the bar and restaurant is via elevator. There is an accessible restroom.

Age limits

Under 18s can’t enter the bar. While the restaurant doesn’t have any official child policy, check when you book. Many diners are on business, so it’s not an ideal place to bring young kids.

What to pack

Photo identification, such as a passport or driving license; you can’t enter without it.

What to wear

Dress up to align with Searcy’s “casual elegance” dress code: This means no shorts, sports clothes, or flip-flops.

Not allowed

Walk-ins or general public lunch bookings

Amenities

Elevators, restrooms, security check-in

Address

The Gherkin is on the east side of the City of London (aka the Square Mile) in the center of the capital. It’s an easy walk from landmarks including the Monument to the Great Fire of London and the Tower of London.

Driving

You need to pay the London Congestion Charge and the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) fee, if applicable for your vehicle. Parking is limited, so it’s better to leave the car behind.

Public transportation

Take the tube to Aldgate via the Metropolitan or Circle lines, or an overground train to Fenchurch Street. Black taxis are readily available in the area. Bus 15 passes through the City of London from central London.

Best times to visit

Weekend evenings are more relaxed, and you can see the city lights twinkling in the dark.

Best days to visit

The Gherkin is busy with city workers in the week, so visit at the weekend for a more open, relaxed vibe.

Best months to visit

If you want a special peek inside The Gherkin (not the restaurant or bar), you can visit during the annual Open House Festival in September.

Special events

The Open House Festival is an annual event that celebrates London’s architecture and interesting buildings. While entry isn’t guaranteed, The Gherkin has been a regular and extremely popular feature of Open House events.