What has a spectacular panoramic view of London and looks like something you’d hate to step on if you were barefoot? The shimmering Shard of Glass, of course. At 1,016 feet high, it’s the tallest building in the EU. The sparkling landmark rises over the City, offering stunning views of London. On a clear day, you can see for 40 miles from its open-air observation deck. From your hotel near The Shard, you’re super-close to theatres, pubs, boutiques and of course, the biggest and best farmer’s market and foodie heaven Borough Market.Â
Book hotels near The Shard
Book a Hotel near the Shard and head to floor 72 to get your bearings. It’s twice as high as any other vantage point in town, but it’s easy to spot the tiny speck we call our London Southwark Hotel. It’s a 10-minute walk from your perch atop the world. Bonus tip: if you can’t see the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Gherkin or Tower Bridge, you can return for free. After gazing into the distance, it’s time to focus on what’s right in front of your face, heading toward your lips — the best meat/fruit/veg/cake/bread you’ve ever seen/smelled. You’re now in Borough Market, one of the country’s oldest food markets. Sample a little something from the food stalls (or several) then walk half a mile to our London Central Southwark hotel for a nap?
Things to do near The Shard
Start with a stroll across the famous Tower Bridge. A few photos later, head back to the Southbank for dinner then make a big decision: Stage or screen? A play at the Young Vic and then a moonlit walk back to our London Central Southwark Hotel? It’s less than a mile away. If you’re with under 16’s, you’ll get over-ruled. Sorry. The nearby BFI IMAX has the largest screen in the UK. Enjoy all 540 square metres of it, oblivious to the traffic swirling around outside. Note: The iMax is housed in a busy roundabout (best use ever?), and it’s only half a mile from our London Central Waterloo Hotel.