The Shard is an architectural masterpiece that has become an iconic symbol of London.
It dominates the city’s skyline, standing tall at an impressive 309.6 meters (1,016 feet).
If you’re in London, you must catch the View from The Shard to get the city’s most breathtaking views.
Here are some interesting facts about The Shard, a marvel slowly becoming a local and tourist favorite.
1. Observation Deck: View from The Shard
The feature that attracts visitors is the Shard’s iconic viewing deck, which gives breathtaking views of the London skyline.
The Shard’s observation deck, located on the 68th, 69th, and 72nd floors, offers fantastic views of London.
With a viewing platform ascending to 244 meters (800.525 feet), visitors can enjoy breathtaking views stretching up to 40 miles on a clear day.
2. Impressive Height and Design
The Shard holds the title of being the tallest building in London and the entire United Kingdom.
By visiting its observation deck that opened on February 1, 2013, people can experience its height.
Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, its height of 310 meters (1017.06 feet) easily surpasses other prominent structures in the region.
The irregular nature of shards of glass inspires the design of the building.
At the top, each facet forms a shard, a plane of glass gently inclined inwards, rising towards the top.
3. Glass Marvel: 11,000 Panels and More
The mesmerizing facade created by the 11000 glass panels is one of the most noticeable features of The Shard.
This huge glass facade covers an area of 56,000 square meters, equivalent to eight football pitches.
The corners of the development are open, allowing the shards to breathe and adding to the building’s unique aesthetic.
4. Eco-Friendly Construction
The Shard is a testament to sustainable architecture, with 95% of its construction done out of recycled materials.
Even 20% of the steelwork used in its creation comes from recycled sources.
This commitment to eco-friendliness showcases a responsible approach to construction in the heart of a bustling metropolis.
5. Internal Marvels: Lifts and Stairs
The Shard has 44 lifts, including double-decker lifts.
They facilitate swift and efficient transportation throughout the building.
There are 306 flights of stairs for the more adventurous, providing a unique way to explore this architectural marvel.
6. Diverse Functional Spaces
The building that houses the View from the Shard is a multifunctional space.
It has a hotel, offices, residences, restaurants and public areas.
Each building level has a purpose, from the ground floor with spaces for sitting and plants to the 68th, 69th and 72nd floors being a public observation deck.
7. Unique Living Spaces and Hotel Experience
The 53rd to 65th floors offer exclusive residences with 360-degree views across London, covering 5,800 square meters.
The 34th to 52nd floors also house the Shangri-La Hotel and Spa, providing a luxurious experience with 200 rooms spread across 18,000 square meters.
8. Culinary Delights
The Shard building also has great restaurants for people wanting a culinary experience before or after visiting the View from the Shard.
The 31st to 34th floors boast international restaurants centered on a triple-height atrium.
The diverse range of dining options adds to the allure of The Shard as a destination for locals and tourists.
9. Alternate Names and Other Tales
Originally named the London Bridge Tower, The Shard is also known as the Shard of Glass and Shard London Bridge.
An interesting tale related to The Shard is that of a fox named Romeo.
In 2012, Romeo escaped security and accessed the central stairwell to reach the top.
He was found living on the 72nd floor, surviving on scraps left by the builders who completed the unfinished structure.
He was found and then released to an animal shelter.
10. Popular Attraction and Global Recognition
Since opening on February 1, 2013, The Shard has become one of London’s most popular attractions.
While not the tallest building in the world, it is a testament to architectural innovation and sustainability.
The building is recognized worldwide, with its distinctive silhouette making it one of the most recognized structures on the planet.
FAQs
How much do tickets for the View from the Shard cost?
The admission fee for the Shard’s viewing floor is £32 for visitors aged three years and older. Infants below the age of three can enter at no cost. All visitors are required to carry identification, and an adult must accompany children under the age of 16.
What are the opening hours of the View from the Shard?
The View from the Shard is open from 11 am to 7 pm, Wednesday to Sunday. The timings and days may change due to events and activities. You can check out the slots while booking your ticket.
How tall is The Shard?
The Shard stands at a height of 309.6 meters or 1,016 feet, making it the tallest building in Western Europe. Visitors can experience stunning panoramic views extending up to 40 miles on a clear day from the viewing platform located at 244 meters (800.52 feet).
What’s the average lift speed at The Shard?
The elevator in The Shard has an average speed of 6 meters per second, ensuring a swift and seamless journey to the top. It has 44 lifts that make it easier to get around efficiently.
What’s in The Shard?
The Shard is a multifunctional space that houses everything from public spaces, apartments, a hotel, restaurants, offices etc. There’s something for everyone visiting. The highlight is the observation deck at the top called the View from the Shard.
How many glass pieces is The Shard made out of?
One of the most striking characteristics of The Shard is the captivating exterior formed by 11,000 glass panels. This expansive glass facade spans an area of 56,000 square meters, which is equivalent to eight football pitches.