The View from The Shard

Billed as the tallest building in Western Europe, The View From The Shard remains a popular attraction for those visiting London. Set on the banks of the River Thames, the viewing platform is situated 244 metres from the ground & offers views of up to 40 miles away including the London Eye, Tower of London, Houses of Parliament & St Paul’s Cathedral. Whilst there are now plenty of FREE & Budget Views of the London Skyline, here’s a chance to enjoy a glass of fizz or a cocktail in style as you take in the breathtaking views over London. Follow our cheap ticket guide below plus tips & tricks to get the most out of your visit.

1. The View from The Shard; London Explorer Pass

The London Explorer Pass includes entry to 60+ London attractions/experiences including The View from The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Hampton Court Palace, Kew Gardens & London Zoo.  Simply opt to visit between 3 & 6 visitor attractions from a wide range of options, (1 credit = 1 attraction visit) that includes The View from The Shard and pick up discounts off single entry prices.

TO BOOK GO TO London Explorer Pass; Choose The View from The Shard + Many Other London Attractions.

2. The View from The Shard; National Rail 2 for 1 Promotion

For those travelling by train into London, take advantage of this National Rail 2 for 1 voucher valid at The View from The Shard.  You can pick 2 for 1 on both General Entry & All Inclusive tickets when booked at least 24 hours in advance. Simply claim your offer and present alongside valid train tickets on the day.  This offer is currently valid until 31 March 2025 with more details available over at View from The Shard – 2 for 1 National Rail Promotion.

The View from The Shard, (photo; Phil Loach)

3. The View from The Shard; Tesco Clubcard

Tesco shoppers can redeem clubcard vouchers towards entry costs at The View from The Shard. Loyalty card codes can be used to purchase either General Entry & General Entry with Champagne tickets when booked in advance, (cannot be used at the gate). Worth noting that you have the option to top up vouchers too with another payment option should you be short of clubcard vouchers.

4. The View from The Shard; FREE Return Visit

Hedge your bets against the great British weather with this View Guarantee that offers a FREE return visit if your visibility is restricted.  Guests can pick up a free return visit if they are cannot see at least 3 of the the top London landmarks as set out by The View from The Shard. Simply place a request with staff before exiting the venue and they will let know if a View Guarantee has been authorised.  Good to know that return visits are valid for 3 months to allow you time to arrange another trip. Find out more over at The View from The Shard; View Guarantee.

Find out more information below to guide you through a visit to The View from The Shard including tips & tricks to help you get the most from your visit.

The View from The Shard, (photo; Phil Loach)

The View From The Shard

The View from The Shard is the second tallest building in Western Europe, (The Varso Tower in Poland taking top billing) & will remain the tallest UK building due to civil aviation space stipulations.  Billed as ‘almost twice the height of any other viewing platform in the capital’ you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views taking in sights up to 40 miles away including Tower Bridge, River Thames, St Paul’s, Tower of London, Canary Wharf, House of Parliament & Battersea Power Station. Whilst there are now many free viewing platforms within London including The Sky Garden that sits directly across from The Shard, there remains something special about accessing the tallest building in the UK.

Your admission ticket secures you access to 2 distinct viewing platform decks to explore. Level 69 offers an indoor space complete with a extensive cocktail bar stocked with a range of fizz, mixers or coffee options. For those opting for All Inclusive Entry, your admission includes a glass a champagne that you can redeem from the bar.  Visitors with General Entry tickets can purchase drinks from the bar that can boost your experience, particular for those visiting on a special occasion. Cocktails are reasonably priced considering you are at the top of The Shard.

Your ticket also gains you access to the highest floor in use at The Shard situated on level 72.  This outdoor space gives you the full flavour of enjoying views over London from the highest building in the UK.  Remember you are exposed to the elements at the top so ensure you dress accordingly.

No trip to The View from The Shard is complete without a visit to the toilets on level 68.  This loo with a view is an Insta/TikTok sensation and not to be missed.

FOLLOW OUR Money Saving Guide To St Paul’s Cathedral including cheap tickets & promotions!

The View from The Shard, (photo; Phil Loach)

The View from The Shard; Tips & Tricks

1. Look out for the View Guarantee that allows you to return for FREE should the weather hamper your visibility.  If you cannot see at least 3 of the following 5 London landmarks;  London Eye, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Walkie Talkie, One Canada Square, you can pick up a Revisit Voucher.  This allows you to book a subsequent General Entry ticket for FREE although you must claim your voucher on the day of your visit before you leave the venue,(t&c’s apply).

2. Whether you are taking advantage of a promotion or purchasing tickets online, worth booking in advance to pick savings off admission charges.  Many ticket promotions now stipulate booking in advance so worth checking the full t&c’s before planning your visit.

3. Time your visit with the opening times of Tower Bridge to give extra sparkle or opt to visit pre-dusk to take advantage of views during the day & evening.

4. The entrance point is tucked away under the external escalator & next to a Nero coffee shop. Tickets offer timed ticketed entry that gives you a 30 minute window in which to begin your ascent to the viewing platform. Good to know that there no limit on the length of time you can spend once you’ve made it to the top so you can relax and enjoy the views.

5. Large equipment or luggage cannot be accommodated within The Shard & bags are limited in size to 55cm x 38cm x 20cm.  Unfortunately there are no lockers or storage options available within the exception of folded pushchairs. As you pass through admission, you will need to make your way through airport-style security.

6. There is a photo opportunity, after security but before entering the lifts, that is difficult to avoid.  The good news is that 4 digital photos are now included within your admission although there are options to purchase further prints from the gift shop on the ground floor.

7. There is limited signage to be found above the glass windows on level 69 that helps visitors pin-point many of the main London landmarks.

8. Listen out for announcements for any talks taking place during your visit that are included within your admission entry. Knowledgeable guides offer you a deeper insight into the construction, workings and history of The Shard and well worth including within your visit. Talks last around 20 minutes in duration.

9. There seating options available on level 69 although a decidedly lack of seats on level 72 unless you simply opt to sit on the floor.

10. Remember that level 72 is an outdoor space at height so ensure you have clothing that works in the elements.

The View from The Shard is situated on Joiner Street, conveniently located next to London Bridge Station.

The View from The Shard, (photo; Phil Loach)