About The Shard
The Shard is a skyscraper located in London, England. It is a prominent landmark in the city and stands at a height of 310 meters, making it the tallest building in the United Kingdom. The Shard is a mixed-use building, housing offices, restaurants, a hotel, and luxury apartments. It was designed by architect Renzo Piano and opened to the public in 2013. The building's unique glass exterior and sharp angular design have made it a distinctive feature of the London skyline. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from The View from The Shard observation deck, which offers stunning vistas of London's landmarks. The Shard has become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of modern architecture in London.
Interesting facts about The Shard
- The Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom, standing at 310 meters (1,016 feet) tall.
- It is located in the vibrant London Bridge Quarter of London, England.
- The Shard has 95 stories above ground and 3 stories below ground.
- Renowned architect Renzo Piano designed The Shard, which was completed in 2012.
- Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of London from The View from The Shard observation deck.
- The building's distinctive pyramid-like shape narrows as it rises, giving it a unique and iconic look on the London skyline.
- There are 11,000 glass panels covering the exterior of The Shard.
- The Shard is home to offices, restaurants, a hotel, and luxury residential apartments.
- The building's height was intentionally kept below 1,000 feet to avoid interfering with the flight path of aircraft to London Heathrow Airport.
- It is estimated that The Shard has a total floor space of around 31 acres.
Frequently asked questions about The Shard
1. What is The Shard?
The Shard is a skyscraper in London, England, standing at 310 meters tall.
2. When was The Shard completed?
The Shard was completed in 2012.
3. Who designed The Shard?
The Shard was designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano.
4. What is the main use of The Shard?
The Shard is a mixed-use building, comprising offices, restaurants, a hotel, apartments, and an observation deck.
5. How tall is The Shard?
The Shard is 310 meters (1,016 feet) tall, making it the tallest building in the United Kingdom.
6. How many floors does The Shard have?
The Shard has a total of 87 floors.
7. How can visitors access the observation deck at The Shard?
Visitors can access the observation deck, known as "The View from The Shard," by taking high-speed elevators to the 68th, 69th, and 72nd floors.
8. What can visitors see from the observation deck at The Shard?
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of London from the observation deck, including famous landmarks such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the River Thames.
9. Is The Shard a popular tourist attraction?
Yes, The Shard is a popular tourist attraction in London, offering stunning views of the city skyline.
10. Are there dining options at The Shard?
Yes, The Shard features several restaurants and bars, including high-end dining establishments with incredible views.
What people love about The Shard
During my recent visit to The Shard, I was thoroughly impressed by the breathtaking views of London's skyline from the top of the building. The panoramic vistas from the observation deck were truly outstanding and allowed me to see the city in a new light. The modern design of the building and the sleek interior decor added to the overall experience of visiting this iconic landmark. The diverse range of dining options at The Shard also catered to my culinary preferences, making it a truly memorable visit. Overall, I would highly recommend checking out The Shard when in London for a unique and unforgettable experience.
How to get to The Shard
To get to The Shard in London, also known as the Shard of Glass or Shard London Bridge, you have several transportation options depending on your starting point:
1. **By Tube**: The nearest underground station to The Shard is London Bridge station, which is served by the Jubilee and Northern lines. Once you arrive at London Bridge station, follow the signs for The Shard.
2. **By Bus**: Several bus routes stop near The Shard, including routes 43, 48, 141, 149, and 521. Check the Transport for London website for the most up-to-date bus information.
3. **By Train**: If you are arriving by train, you can get to The Shard via London Bridge station, which is a major railway hub with connections to various parts of London and beyond.
4. **By River Bus**: You can also reach The Shard via the River Bus services operated by Thames Clippers. The nearest pier is London Bridge City Pier.
5. **By Car**: If you prefer to drive, there are parking facilities available near The Shard. However, it's important to note that central London can be congested, so driving may not be the most convenient option.
6. **By Walking**: If you're in the area, you can also walk to The Shard from nearby attractions like Borough Market, Tower Bridge, or the Tate Modern. It's a pleasant stroll along the River Thames with great views of the city.
Once you arrive at The Shard, you can access the building's viewing platform, The View from The Shard, for panoramic views of London. Make sure to check the opening hours and book tickets in advance if possible, especially during peak tourist seasons.
When to visit
The best time of year to visit The Shard in London is during the spring and summer months, typically from April to August. During this time, the weather is generally more pleasant and you can enjoy stunning views of the city in clearer skies. It is advisable to visit early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds and get the best view of the sunset. Remember to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot for a visit to this iconic skyscraper.
Table of Contents