The Shard

Conceived as a 'vertical city', The Shard is a multi-use skyscraper that integrates office spaces, luxury residences, a five-star hotel, and public viewing galleries. Its striking design, featuring 11,000 glass panels, reflects the sky and changes appearance with the weather and seasons. The building's location at London Bridge makes it a central hub, seamlessly connecting visitors to the historic and modern facets of the city.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience the highest viewing platform in London, offering up to 40 miles of visibility on a clear day.
• Dine at world-renowned restaurants like Aqua Shard, Hutong, and Oblix.
• Enjoy a luxurious stay or a cocktail at the Shangri-La Hotel.
• Ride the high-speed kaleidoscopic lifts that travel at 6 meters per second.
• Capture breathtaking photographs of iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting on heavily overcast or foggy days if your primary goal is the view, as visibility can be severely limited.
• Do not bring large bags or luggage, as there are no cloakroom facilities for oversized items and they are not permitted through security.
• Avoid arriving late for restaurant reservations, as tables are often strictly timed.

Local Transportation Tips

The Shard is exceptionally well-connected. It is located directly above London Bridge Station, which is served by the Jubilee and Northern Underground lines, as well as numerous National Rail services. Numerous bus routes also stop right outside the station, and the London Bridge City Pier offers river bus services via the Thames Clippers.

Travel Etiquette

• Adhere to the smart casual dress code if visiting the restaurants or bars.
• Maintain a considerate volume in the viewing galleries to allow everyone to enjoy the ambiance.
• Be mindful of others when taking photographs, especially near the glass panels.
• Follow the instructions of the security staff during the airport-style security checks upon entry.

Recommended Age Group

The Shard offers a memorable experience for a wide range of visitors, though the appeal varies slightly by age.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While strollers are permitted and the environment is safe, the sweeping views and heights are unlikely to engage infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children are often thrilled by the high-speed elevators and the interactive elements of spotting landmarks from the sky.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The highly photogenic views and modern architecture make it a perfect, Instagram-worthy destination for teenagers.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults can fully appreciate the architectural significance, fine dining, and sophisticated bars.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The attraction is fully accessible with smooth elevators and seating available, making it a comfortable and awe-inspiring experience.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The Shard is fully wheelchair accessible from the ground floor to the viewing platforms.
• Accessible toilets are available on the viewing gallery levels and within the restaurants.
• Guide dogs and assistance animals are welcome.
• Hearing loops are installed at the ticket desks.
• Staff are trained to assist visitors with disabilities through the security process and into the lifts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that The Shard is covered by 11,000 panes of glass? If you laid them all out flat, they would cover an area equivalent to eight football pitches!

Cool Statistics

• Height: 309.6 meters (1,016 feet).
• Floors: 95 stories (72 habitable).
• Lifts: 44 lifts, with the fastest traveling at 6 meters per second.
• Glass panels: 11,000.
• Visibility: Up to 40 miles on a clear day.