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The Shard, a crystalline glass pyramid, stands on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. It boasts 95 floors, 72 of which are dedicated to offices, residences, and sightseeing. Reaching the summit requires two elevators: the first takes passengers to the 33rd floor, while the second takes them directly to the summit. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of London, encompassing over 60 kilometers, including the Olympic Stadium, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. The Shard utilizes a sophisticated glass curtain wall, with facade treatments that allow the building's form to change with the weather and seasons.
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a temperate oceanic climate with small temperature differences between the four seasons. The summers are cool and the winters are warm. The air is humid with frequent rain and fog, especially in autumn and winter.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours;
Nearby attractions: National Gallery, Oxford Street, Thames River, London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben, etc.
free
10:00-19:00 (October 25th to December 23rd, December 25th to March 31st of the following year, Monday to Wednesday, and Sunday)
10:00-22:00 (October 25th to December 23rd, December 25th to March 31st of the following year, Thursday to Saturday)
10:00-22:00 (April 1st - May 6th, May 8th - October 24th, Monday to Sunday)
10:00-17:30 (December 24 - Monday to Sunday, December 24)
10:00-20:00 (May 7 - Monday to Sunday)
The Shard, completed in 2012, is a modern architectural marvel and the tallest building in the United Kingdom. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, its unique design resembles a shard of glass, and it serves as a symbol of London's growth and its forward-thinking nature. The building houses offices, restaurants, hotels, and the observation deck, which offers unrivaled views of the city.
The Shard is located at 32 London Bridge Street, London. The closest underground stations are London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines), which is just a few minutes' walk away. You can also take numerous bus routes or a taxi to get there. Walking from London Bridge station is quick and easy.
The Shard's observation deck is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The best time to visit is either early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds. Sunset visits offer breathtaking views of London, especially on clear days.
Ticket prices for the observation deck start at £32 for adults. Discounts are available for children and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online through The Shard's official website or at the ticket counter on the day of your visit.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak tourist seasons. Tickets can be booked online up to a few weeks in advance.
It typically takes around 1-2 hours to fully explore The Shard, including time spent on the observation deck and enjoying the views. If you plan to dine or visit the restaurants, you should allocate more time.
Guided tours are available and typically include information about the history, design, and views from The Shard. Audio guides are available in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and more.
The observation deck on the 72nd floor provides the best viewpoints for panoramic photographs. The views of London, including landmarks like Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the River Thames, are stunning. Try to visit at sunset for the most dramatic light.
Start at the ground floor, where you can purchase tickets and enter the elevator. The elevator ride to the 72nd floor is quick, and you will be greeted with incredible views upon arrival. Take time to explore the indoor viewing areas and the outdoor terrace if the weather permits.
The Shard is particularly beautiful at night, offering stunning views of the city's lights. While there are no special light shows, the views from the observation deck at night are spectacular. Special evening events or dinners at the restaurants are sometimes available.
The Shard can be crowded, especially during weekends and holiday seasons. Weekdays in the early morning or late evening are typically less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
The Shard offers several facilities including toilets, rest areas, and a café. There are also shops where you can buy souvenirs. Restaurants like Aqua Shard and Oblix offer dining with a view, and there are water stations on the observation deck.
The Shard is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access. Elevators are available to all floors, and there are services to assist elderly or disabled visitors. The attraction is also family-friendly with special ticket pricing for children.
Card payments and mobile payments are accepted throughout The Shard. Cash is not required for ticket purchases or dining, but you may want to carry some for tips or small purchases.
Yes, there are souvenir shops within The Shard selling items like postcards, photographs, and miniature models of the building. You can also find gifts related to London and The Shard's architecture.
After visiting The Shard, you can take the London Underground from London Bridge station, catch a taxi, or enjoy a pleasant walk along the River Thames to nearby attractions like the Tate Modern or St. Paul's Cathedral.
