The Shard is an impressive feat of modern architecture and a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to London. Standing at a height of 310 meters, this 95-storey skyscraper is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and the fifth-tallest in Europe. The Shard has become an iconic symbol of London’s modern architecture and attracts millions of visitors every year.
History
The Shard was designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano and was opened to the public in 2012. The building’s construction took over 12 years and was completed in 2013. It was built on the site of the Southwark Towers, a 24-story office building that was demolished in 2008. The Shard was developed by Sellar Property Group, a property development company, and Qatar National Bank, who financed the project.
Design
The Shard’s design is inspired by the spires of London’s churches and the masts of tall ships that once sailed up the River Thames. The building is made of steel and glass and has a distinctive pyramid-shaped top that is illuminated at night. The Shard is divided into different sections, with the lower levels being used for office and retail space, and the upper floors being used for residential apartments, restaurants, and the viewing gallery.
Attractions at The Shard
The Shard offers a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. The main attraction is the View from The Shard, an observation deck located on the 69th and 72nd floors of the building. The viewing gallery provides 360-degree panoramic views of London and is the highest observation deck in the city. Visitors can take in stunning views of London’s landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye. The viewing gallery also features interactive exhibits and a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to “shard dive” and explore the building’s structure.
The Shard also has several restaurants and bars that offer panoramic views of the city. Aqua Shard, located on the 31st floor, serves modern British cuisine and has a stunning bar that overlooks the River Thames. Hutong, located on the 33rd floor, serves authentic Chinese cuisine and has a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Oblix, located on the 32nd floor, serves contemporary European cuisine and has a bar that overlooks the Tower of London.
Tips for Visiting
If you are planning to visit The Shard, here are some tips to make your experience enjoyable:
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. The View from The Shard is a popular attraction and can get very busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- If you want to see the city during sunset, book your tickets for a few hours before sunset. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos before the sun goes down.
- Dress appropriately for the weather. The viewing gallery is open to the elements, so it can get cold and windy at high altitudes.
- Bring your camera! The views from The Shard are some of the best in London, and you will want to capture the moment.
- Consider visiting one of the restaurants or bars in The Shard. They offer great views of the city, and the food and drinks are excellent.
Pingback: Tower Bridge |