The Shard, an architectural marvel that slices through the London skyline, is not just a building; it’s a symbol of modern ingenuity and ambition. Conceived by the visionary Italian architect Renzo Piano, The Shard’s design was inspired by the railway lines next to the site, the spires of London churches depicted by the 18th-century Venetian painter Canaletto, and the masts of sailing ships. Piano described the structure as a “shard of glass” piercing the sky, a name that perfectly encapsulates its sharp, tapering design.
Its construction, which began in March 2009 and was completed in November 2012, was a feat of engineering, involving 11,000 glass panels and a total floor space of 1.2 million square feet.
Standing at a towering height of 1,016 feet (310 meters), The Shard holds the title of the tallest building in the United Kingdom and the seventh tallest in Europe. It’s a vertical city that houses offices, restaurants, the five-star Shangri-La Hotel, exclusive residences, and the highest viewing gallery in London. The building’s unique design not only redefined London’s skyline but also set new standards for sustainable high-rise construction. The Shard is equipped with a sophisticated energy management system, making it one of the most energy-efficient buildings in the world.
One of the most captivating aspects of The Shard is its public viewing platform, known as The View from The Shard. Situated on floors 68 to 72, this observation deck offers 360-degree views of London, stretching up to 40 miles on a clear day. Visitors can gaze upon iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, the London Eye, and St. Paul’s Cathedral from a bird’s-eye perspective. The platform itself is a marvel, featuring an open-air Skydeck that allows guests to feel the breeze above the city and digital telescopes that provide interactive information about the sights below.
Beyond its architectural and environmental achievements, The Shard has embedded itself into London’s cultural fabric. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and photography, becoming one of the most recognizable symbols of contemporary London. The building’s inauguration was marked by a spectacular laser light show that illuminated the London night sky, signaling the arrival of a new landmark on the city’s horizon. The Shard continues to captivate both residents and visitors alike, offering a unique blend of art, architecture, and unparalleled views that celebrate the past, present, and future of London.
Tips for visiting the Shard
Visiting The View from The Shard offers an unparalleled experience of London from its highest vantage point. To ensure you have the best possible visit, here are five useful tips:
Book Tickets in Advance: Purchasing your tickets online before your visit can save you both time and money. Advance tickets are often cheaper than buying them on the spot and guarantee your entry during your preferred time slot, especially important for sunset views when the demand is high.
Check the Weather: The View from The Shard is most spectacular on clear days when visibility is at its best. While the weather guarantee policy offers a return visit on a clearer day if key landmarks are obscured, checking the forecast can help you choose the ideal day for your visit.
Choose Your Visit Time Wisely: For a truly magical experience, time your visit around sunset. Watching the city transition from day to night, with landmarks lighting up across the skyline, is a breathtaking sight. However, these times can be popular, so booking in advance is crucial.
Travel Light: Security checks are in place for all visitors. To ensure a smooth entry, avoid bringing large bags or suitcases. Smaller bags are easier to manage, especially since there are no cloakroom facilities for storage.
Explore Both Levels: The View from The Shard has two observation decks. Make sure to explore both the indoor viewing gallery and the open-air Skydeck on the 72nd floor. The Skydeck offers an immersive experience with the sounds of the city below, while the indoor gallery provides interactive telescopes for a closer look at London’s landmarks.
General Information
The View from The Shard offers visitors the chance to experience London from an unparalleled vantage point, with opening hours that cater to both early birds and night owls. Typically, the View from the Shard is open between 10:00 and 22:00 during the summer, but closes at 20:00 Sunday to Wednesday in winter, allowing for a wide range of visiting times, including the sought-after sunset hours which offer breathtaking views of the city bathed in golden light. The Shard opening times may change for special events such weekend parties. Ticket prices vary, with adult tickets starting around £25 when booked in advance online, offering a significant saving compared to on-the-day purchases at the ticket office. For the best experience, planning a visit during off-peak times, such as weekday mornings, can result in shorter queues and a more leisurely viewing experience. Visitors should allocate at least an hour to fully enjoy the panoramic views and interactive exhibits, though many find themselves captivated by the scenery for longer.
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