No, you cannot typically walk into The Shard’s viewing platforms (The View from The Shard) for free; it requires a paid ticket, often costing over £20-£30. Free access is only available for children aged three and under, or through pre-booked, complimentary carer tickets with valid documentation.
No, you generally cannot go up The View from The Shard for free, as it requires a paid ticket, but children under three go free, and you can get free entry to other London viewing platforms like Sky Garden or Horizon 22 by booking in advance. Alternatively, dining at one of The Shard's restaurants or bars provides access with a minimum spend, or you can use a city pass like The London Pass.
We'll gladly provide you with a complimentary The View from The Shard return voucher. This voucher is valid for 3 months and entitles you to book a return standard ticket, absolutely free. To claim this offer, simply speak with our Duty Manager on the day of your visit.
Where is the free alternative to the shard in London?
Horizon 22; highest viewing platform in London
Horizon 22 is without a doubt one of the best free viewpoints in London. Located on the 58th floor of 22 Bishopsgate, the second-tallest building in the UK after The Shard, Horizon 22 is the highest free viewing platform in London.
How to Visit The Shard London for FREE! 🇬🇧 | Aqua Shard Bar & Stunning Skyline Views
How much time do you need at the Shard?
How long does The Shard experience take? Visitors are recommended to spend at least 1 hour at The Shard, but you are welcome to spend as much time as you wish. There's plenty to do and see, both on the Viewing Deck on Level 72, and in the numerous restaurants, bars and hotels within the building itself!
Standing approximately 309 metres (1,014 ft) high, the Shard is currently the tallest building in the European Union. It is the second-tallest free-standing structure in the United Kingdom, after the concrete tower at the Emley Moor transmitting station.
Yes, you can absolutely have a drink in The Shard, with several upscale bars and restaurants offering cocktails, champagne, and other beverages with stunning city views, including the GŎNG bar (highest in Western Europe) and Aqua Shard, with many requiring reservations for a spot.
It measures 244m (801 feet) long and 65m (264 feet) high and provides a roadway across the Thames for over 40,000 people yearly both on foot and on wheels. It's free to walk across the bridge and to witness its opening and closing, but you will need to buy a ticket for the Tower Bridge Exhibition.
How much does it cost to go up to the top of The Shard?
Going up The Shard (The View from The Shard) costs around £19 to £36+ per person for general entry, depending on booking in advance and if it's a standard or "all-inclusive" ticket (with champagne). Prices vary, with online booking generally cheaper than walk-up, and packages including champagne or other experiences costing more, while kids under 4 go free.
The Shard has different dress codes: The View from The Shard (observation deck) has no strict code, but all restaurants (like Aqua Shard, Oblix, TING, Sky Lounge) enforce smart casual, prohibiting sportswear, flip-flops, and baseball caps; while some visitors find casual wear acceptable, others have been denied entry for trainers, so aim for smart casual (collared shirts, smart shoes, dresses, nice trousers) for dining, but feel free to be comfortable for just the view.
DO I NEED A TICKET TO VISIT THE VIEW FROM THE SHARD? Yes! Tickets are required for everyone visiting The View from The Shard except for children aged three and under. Walk up tickets can be purchased on the day, subject to availability.
From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city of London. Visiting the viewing platform of The Shard in London is definitely worth it! Standing on the 72nd floor, you can take in the entire London skyline, with landmarks clearly visible in the distance. The staff are also very attentive.
Photography is prohibited in the Jewel House to prevent potential criminals from using images to identify security weaknesses surrounding the royal gems.
It was transferred to the Crown of Queen Mary in 1911, and to the Crown of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1937 for her coronation. Today, the diamond is on public display in the Jewel House at the Tower of London.
The highest free view of London is from Horizon 22, located on the 58th floor of 22 Bishopsgate, offering incredible 300-degree panoramic views of the city's landmarks from 254 meters up. While admission is free, you need to book a time slot online in advance, though walk-ins are sometimes possible if capacity allows.
