VIEW FROM THE SHARD
London’s Highest Observation Deck
Toward the end of Walt Disney’s Mary Poppins there is a moody and melancholy moment when Poppins, Bert and the children go up the chimney flew for a chimney sweep’s view of the roof tops of London - a rather sooty world of smoky chimneys and the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral the high point in the distant cityscape. London has rather changed a bit since the days of suffragettes. And the place to get a bird’s eye view has changed as well. The big wheel on the Thames, the “Eye” was the tourist vantage point for a time (see London Eye Wheel), but now with the city skyline being stabbed by the thrust of a new sleek tower skyscraper the top view point over London is the View from the Shard, the highest viewing platform at the pinnacle of what is now the tallest building in Western Europe.
The visitor attraction at the Shard, which rises from near the Thames and Tower Bridge at a height of 800 feet, offers a spectacular view of modern London which stretches out for up to 40 miles. The Shard has redefined the London skyline, a sleek and sharp narrow pyramid, combined to coincide with the reconstructed London Bridge rail station. The tourist experience begins with a rapid “kaleidoscopic” ascent to the first triple-height viewing platform on Level 69, where interactive touchscreen telescopes allow guests to explore the sights in greater detail, with information about 200 landmarks in 10 languages and alternative day, night, sunrise and sunset views. “Guest Ambassadors” are available to answer questions or add their own flavor to the view. Rising again to Level 72, step out into the open-air gallery for a breathtaking climbers view toward the top of the building as the glass panels that form into the spire disappear into the clouds. Here you can take in the sky and sounds of the city below. The View from The Shard also has two boutique shops, The Sky Boutique on Level 68 – the highest store in London, and the ground floor gift shop, both offering a wide range of unique designs and souvenirs, from guidebooks to champagne, and even a cuddly Romeo the Fox, named for real cox found wandering the upper levels of The Shard during construction.
Weather in London can be notoriously foggy and the view of London landmarks is guaranteed. In case that you can't see at least three of the significant landmarks - London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Gherkin, Tower Bridge and One Canada Square, you can get a ticket to return for free within three months. Though if you only have a day or two in London, small comfort.
Silent Disco
On Friday and Saturday Nights, the Shard view becomes London’s highest dance club, and level 69 gallery is turned into a Silent Disco. Get a drink from the bar and a set of headphones and dance the night away with sweeping London panoramas, while 3 DJs play your choice of Pop Rock, R ‘n B, or Dance Hip Hop, music only playing in your head.
Visiting the View From The Shard
The Shard is easily accessed from London Bridge Station and within modest walking distance from the Tower of London across the river. Tickets are timed and dated for the start of your visit, but with no time restriction on the length of stay. Adult Ticket with advance purchase is £25.95 and £30.95 on the day of if available. Student advance ticket is £20.95 and Child is £19.95. Slightly higher prices come with a glass of champagne, and day and night visit. A special Family Ticket Experience with activities for the kids is available for £79.95. Entrance is subject to airport style security including an electronic body scan and baggage or personal items scanned before entry. Hand-held cameras and video equipment is allowed for personal use, but no tripods. © Bargain Travel Europe
Compare best vacation deals in London on TripAdvisor
Web
Info
Shard View
These articles are copyrighted and the sole property of Bargain Travel Europe and WLPV, LLC. and may not be copied or reprinted. Photos courtesy London Helicopter.
SEE ALSO:
MARITIME MUSEUM AND ROYAL OBSERVATORY
TREASURES GALLERY AT BRITISH LIBRARY
HAY'S GALLERIA SHOPS AND SHIPPING HISTORY
EUROSTAR CHANNEL LONDON TO PARIS
