The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate
The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate offers fantastic views over London including many of the iconic attractions in the city and even better news is that you can gain free entry, (timed tickets required). Be whisked off to the 50th floor to enjoy views of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, BT Tower, Canary Wharf & more. This NEW London attraction complements more traditional attractions such as The London Eye and is a great stand-alone destination for those visiting London on a budget.
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The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate
The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate
Located on the 50th floor, The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate offers 240-degree panoramic views around London including many of the well known sights around the city. Whilst entry is FREE of charge, you do need to apply for complementary tickets to access the latest London attraction. Opt to book online or try for a walk-up ticket, although this latter option is subject to availability so to guarantee entry an element of pre-planning is required.
Once you’ve passed through airport-style security, you can make your way to the lift to climb 50 floors. As the lift opens you can make your way into the viewing deck to enjoy 240 degree views around the city and take in iconic sights such as the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral & Tower Bridge as well as newer attractions such as The Sky Garden & The Shard. The River Thames spans out before you and, as you gain your bearings, you’ll take in sights along the river from Canary Wharf through to the Houses of Parliament. Whilst there is no signage at The Lookout, we found the friendly staff were on hand to help point out attractions as you take in a bird’s eye view over London.
Worth noting that tickets are limited to a 45 minute visit, although saying that, we didn’t see anyone ushering people out during our recent visit. With limited seating available, (a small handful of chairs), and no facilities other than public toilets, you’ll probably find the duration long enough to get the most from your visit. Whilst there are no on-site refreshments available, you can bring in bottled water but unfortunately no other food/drink is permitted, (remember airport-style security as your arrive).
Architecturally speaking, I wouldn’t say the space has the same presence of its neighbour Horizon 22 who’s viewing deck boasts of double height fronted glass and stands 254 metres above ground. Whilst it may not be the most inspiring space, for those more interested in the view before them rather than the deck itself, then it definitely ticks all the right boxes. As both The Lookout and Horizon 22 offer walk-up tickets, you might get lucky with one or the other, and if not The Monument can be found nearby for those willing to climb for their view.
The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate
The Lookout; Tips & Tricks
1. Worth timing your visit with the opening times of Tower Bridge to give extra sparkle to your visit.
2. Free tickets are released every other Monday but demand is fierce so you’ll need to act quickly to bag yourself free tickets. Remember that children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.
3. Walk-up tickets are available on the day but are subject to availability so to guarantee entry it’s best to book in advance. However with availability for 50 people per 30 minutes, we’re hearing that quite a few people are booking in advance but then not turning up – if you find yourself in the vicinity, always worth an ask.
4. Large bags or suitcases are not permitted at The Lookout and worth noting that there are no on-site lockers available so plan ahead.
5. There are no refreshments available on the viewing deck & very limited seating, (people tend to spread out sit on the floor). Only bottled water is permitted on the deck.
6. Combine with a trip to The Monument that can be found close by. Now dwarfed by more recent construction in the city, this historic landmark is worth a visit – tickets are cheap and offers you a very different perspective over London.
6. Toilet facilities available on the 50th floor that are open to the public.
7. Very niche but if you want to see Tottenham Stadium, opt for The Lookout rather than Horizon 22!
To book tickets go to The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate.
