location-photo
camera
len
Nikon Z6
Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S Lens
Shutter Speed
1/8 sec
Aperture
f/4
Focal Length
50mm
ISO
250

The Shard view of 20 Fenchurch, Leadenhall Building, Tower 42 & Skyline

avatar
@chrisjdalton
Looking out onto the evolving cluster of towers, you'll get a real understanding of how the city's developing from the 72nd level of this terrace. It's by far my favorite viewpoint in London!

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Easy
Accessbility
Public Location

Hours

10AM-10PM

Fee

advanced online £24, Walk-up £32

Pack

  • Normal lens (65mm)
  • Jacket
  • Dark clothing/cloth to avoid reflections

How to get there

N51° 30' 15.8616"W0° 05' 11.6736"
The image was taken from the viewing deck on the 72nd level of The Shard looking directly north onto the city skyscrapers. Upon arrival, walk down London Bridge St to the left of Shangri-La Hotel. Just past the escalators, you'll find the entrance to The Shard. Then, it's as simple as following the ticket staff directions through security and taking the lift to get to the top. Once there, make your way up all the steps to the highest level, face north, and be amazed at the view! Before coming to this location, it's best to book in advance: https://www.the-shard.com/viewing-gallery. By London Underground: - Closest station: London Bridge (Northern or Jubilee line) - Head south on Railway Approach toward London Bridge St - Continue onto London Bridge St Address: The Shard, 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG

Tips

When to go

Best season

All months

Best time

Blue Hour
It'll be much more comfortable to photograph in the external terrace during the warmer months, but all months are suitable to capture this spectacular view from The Shard.
This classic view is best captured right after sunset during blue hour when the fading ambient light makes a nice contrast with the glowing artificial lights from the buildings.

Field tips

It get chilly on the viewing deck, so dress warm!
Tripods (including very small ones) and other large equipment aren't allowed in The Shard and will be held by security until you leave.
The top floor is best for photos as you have less panes of glass to shoot through and can worry less about reflections.
From this far distance up above, I recommend using a long lens (65mm) to zoom in tightly onto the buildings.
To capture long exposures or low ISO photos, you'll need to rest your camera on the floor. I find it best to sit down on the carpet of the viewing deck and position your gear on the wooden board by the glass.
Window reflections can be a real pain up in The Shard, so make sure you're wearing dark clothing or have a dark jacket to mask out around your camera. A lens skirt that attaches to the glass can help a lot too, but the staff will occasionally tell you to not use it.

Current weather

London
Partially cloudy
70o
F
Sun
69o
56o
Mon
63o
53o
Tue
63o
50o
Wed
65o
54o
Thu
66o
53o

Blue Hour

03:03
70o
Partially cloudy

Sunrise

03:49
70o
Partially cloudy

Golden Hour

19:17
70o
Partially cloudy

Sunset

20:10
70o
Partially cloudy

Do nearby

Enjoy the 360-degree views of the city from the highest point in London.

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