The Shard travel guide

The Shard, an iconic structure in London's skyline, has a rich history. This architectural masterpiece was designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano and was officially inaugurated on July 5, 2012. The planning for The Shard started in 1998, with the aim to develop an architecturally striking building that would also contribute to London's urban regeneration.

Construction began in March 2009 and it was completed in 2012, becoming the tallest building in Western Europe. With its 95 stories, The Shard boasts a mix of residential, office, and retail space, along with a hotel and several restaurants.

The Shard's name comes from Piano's description of the building as a 'shard of glass', reflecting the ambition of creating a structure that would blend with the sky and become a part of London's identity. Today, it stands as a symbol of modern design and innovation, attracting millions of visitors each year.

One of the most defining characteristics of The Shard is its towering height. Standing at an impressive 1016 feet, it is the tallest building in Western Europe. With 95 floors, 72 of which are habitable, it offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of London from its observation deck on the 72nd floor, known as 'The View from The Shard'. Another unique feature is its distinctive, pyramid-like architectural design that has earned it the name 'The Shard of Glass.' The building is a mixed-use space, comprising of a range of facilities: high-end offices, world-class restaurants, the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel, and even residential apartments. The Shard's innovative design also extends to its eco-friendliness, with the use of combined heat and power (CHP) plant that operates on natural gas, making it a sustainable architectural marvel. Despite its modernity, The Shard complements London's historic skyline, standing out as an iconic symbol of 21st-century London.

Discover The Shard, a prime feature of London Borough of Southwark, in the vibrant Southwark. The Shard is situated at 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK, just a short distance from Borough Market and London Bridge, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of The Shard, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of London Borough of Southwark, a city in England rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit London Borough of Southwark to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of The Shard. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive London Borough of Southwark travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The Shard is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in London Borough of Southwark, England. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to London Borough of Southwark, Gatwick Airport is approximately 25 miles (40.3 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach The Shard by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in London Borough of Southwark, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach The Shard, which is located 2.2 miles (3.5 km) from the city center. Its exact address is 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Shard!

The best time to explore The Shard is during the spring and summer months from March to August. During this period, England's weather is most favorable, which enhances the panoramic view from The Shard's lookout points. You can enjoy longer daylight hours, making it possible to see London's iconic landmarks in all their glory. However, for a less crowded experience, consider visiting on weekday mornings. For a unique experience, aim to visit during special events like the Summer Solstice, where you can witness the longest day of the year from London's highest viewpoint. Alternatively, visiting The Shard during Christmas time offers a unique festive atmosphere, with the city below illuminated with Christmas lights. To avoid waiting times, it's recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak hours and events. Regardless of the season, the weather can be changeable, so always check the forecast prior to your visit.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to London Borough of Southwark, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring The Shard.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic observation deck in England.

Choosing the right accommodation near The Shard from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in London Borough of Southwark can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from The Shard, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond The Shard, London Borough of Southwark boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in London Borough of Southwark offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in London Borough of Southwark is Tower Bridge, located at Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, UK. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Borough Market is worth seeing when you're in London Borough of Southwark. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at London SE1 9AL, UK.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to London Bridge completes any trip to London Borough of Southwark. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at London EC4R 9HA, UK, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in London Borough of Southwark below to discover even more incredible places to explore.