Visiting The Shard: Tickets, Hours, and Tips
What The Shard is
The Shard is a glass-and-steel skyscraper in London, standing 309.6 metres (1,016 feet) tall. Conceptualized by property developer Irvine Sellar and designed by architect Renzo Piano, it was completed in 2012 and has become a recognizable feature of the London skyline (The Shard - Visiting Hours, Tickets, and History of London’s Iconic Skyscraper).
The building is a multifunctional hub with residential apartments, offices, restaurants, a hotel and a publicly accessible viewing gallery. It represents London’s ambition and its capacity to combine historic surroundings with contemporary development.
History and significance
Sellar envisioned replacing the outdated Southwark Towers with a dynamic vertical city. Inspired by Venetian painter Canaletto’s depictions of London, he imagined a spire-like structure that would relate to the River Thames and the historic city around it. Renzo Piano, known for designs including the Pompidou Centre in Paris, drew inspiration from the railway lines converging at nearby London Bridge Station and the mast of a tall ship. He sketched the initial concept on the back of a restaurant menu.
Construction began in 2009 and concluded in 2012. The Shard’s pyramidal form tapers towards the sky, with a steel frame and 11,000 glass panels arranged across its façade. The panels reflect sunlight and the sky, giving the building an ever-changing appearance. It comprises 95 stories, including 72 habitable floors, and held the title of the tallest building in the European Union until 2021.
Since its inauguration in 2012, The Shard has become one of London’s most recognizable landmarks, alongside structures such as Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. It has appeared in films, television shows and literary works, becoming a symbol of modern London.
The Shard’s construction helped catalyse the regeneration of Southwark. Once a somewhat neglected part of London, the area has seen investment and development and become a hub for business, leisure and culture. The building has attracted businesses, boosted the local economy and created job opportunities. Its direct connection to London Bridge Station has also contributed to the area’s accessibility and revitalization (The Shard London - Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Experience).
What to see and do
The ascent
High-speed lifts take visitors to the 68th floor in 60 seconds. Multimedia displays in the lifts showcase London’s skyline and introduce the views ahead.
The viewing floors
The 68th and 69th floors offer 360-degree views of London, stretching up to 40 miles on a clear day. Digital telescopes with interactive touchscreens provide information about the landmarks in view and London’s layout and history.
The partially open-air skydeck on the 72nd floor offers views accompanied by the wind and sounds of the city below.
The Shard app and Champagne Bar
The free Shard app provides an interactive guide to the view, augmented reality experiences and a time-lapse feature for capturing changing light over the city (The Shard App).
The Champagne Bar, on the 69th floor, is described as the highest champagne bar in Western Europe.
Dining
- Aqua Shard Contemporary British cuisine on the 31st floor (Aqua Shard).
- Oblix Fine dining, a sophisticated menu and panoramic cityscapes on the 32nd floor (Oblix).
- Hutong Northern Chinese cuisine on the 33rd floor (Hutong).
Practical visiting information
Opening hours
The View from The Shard is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though opening times vary seasonally. Check the official website for current hours before visiting (Visiting Hours) (Opening Hours).
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. Prices start from £25 for adults and £20 for children. Packages include fast-track options, champagne and dining, as well as tickets for special events (Tickets).
Getting there and entering
The Shard is next to London Bridge Station, which is served by the Jubilee and Northern lines, buses and several National Rail services (Getting There). Expect airport-style security checks upon entry.
Accessibility and facilities
The Shard is accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with mobility impairments, with step-free access throughout and dedicated facilities. A gift shop on the ground floor sells souvenirs.
Guided tours and events
Guided tours cover The Shard’s history and architecture and its place among London’s historical sites. The building hosts occasional events, exhibitions and themed experiences, and frequently hosts special events. Check the website for details of upcoming activities.
Tips for your visit
Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours at The Shard to appreciate the views and explore the different levels. For the best views, consider visiting at sunset or at night, when the city is illuminated; early mornings are generally less crowded. Sunrise and sunset can also offer golden-hour light for photography. Clear skies offer the best visibility, so check the forecast in advance. Panoramic settings can help capture the full scope of the view.
Consider a ticket package, and check for special events that coincide with your visit. The Shard’s ticket packages, events and dining options can help you plan your visit (Visitor Tips for a Memorable Experience at The Shard).
Nearby places
Nearby attractions include Borough Market, the Tower of London and the Tate Modern.
FAQ
What are The Shard’s visiting hours?
The View from The Shard is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but opening times vary seasonally. Check the official website for the latest information.
How much do tickets cost?
Prices start from £25 for adults and £20 for children. Fast-track tickets and other packages are available.
Is The Shard accessible?
Yes. It has step-free access throughout and dedicated facilities for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair users and visitors with mobility impairments.
What are some nearby attractions?
Nearby attractions include Borough Market, the Tower of London and the Tate Modern.
