South Bank
The Shard
Glass spire above the whole city
Photo by Fred Moon on Unsplash
- Nearest Station
- London BridgeAbout 2 min walk
- Best Time
- Sunset / Blue Hour / NightThe dusk-to-night window is very popular and must be booked.
Best Shot
Great for vertical · 9:16Suggested composition at The Shard
- Where to stand
- The viewing floors (paid), or the forecourt of London Bridge station at its base
- Composition
- On the viewing floor, silhouette your subject by the window with the night view towards Tower Bridge behind. From street level, shoot straight up with a wide lens.
Tips
- Avoid glass reflections by putting your lens close to the window
- The viewing platform is paid and booking-based
- Visibility is poor on overcast days, so check the forecast
Overview
The Shard is one of London's tallest buildings, with a viewing platform and restaurants that look down over the whole city. From its base, the glass spire rising overhead makes a striking symbol of the futuristic city.
- High-rise views over all of London
- Looking up at the glass spire
- The night view is especially impressive
Creator Information
- Area
- South Bank
- Nearest Station
- London BridgeJubilee · Northern · National Rail
- Walking Time
- About 2 min walk
- Best For
- Cinematic / Luxury / YouTube / Instagram
- Best Time
- Sunset / Blue Hour / NightThe dusk-to-night window is very popular and must be booked.
- Indoor / Outdoor
- Indoor & Outdoor
- Free / Paid
- PaidThe viewing platform (The View from The Shard) is paid; booking recommended. Exterior photography is free
- Rain Friendly
- Partly covered
- Filming Permission
- Check before shootingThe building and viewing platform are private, so tripods and commercial filming may require prior permission.Read the filming permission guide
Nearest stations, prices, opening hours and filming rules may change. This information is currently being verified. Please check official sources before you go.
Within walking distance
Nearby Creator Spots
South Bank
Borough Market
About 5 min walk from here
- London Bridge · 4 min walk
- Best: Morning / Daytime
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About 13 min walk from here
- Tower Hill · 8 min walk
- Best: Sunrise / Blue Hour / Night
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About 13 min walk from here
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- Best: Sunset / Blue Hour
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Tower of London
About 14 min walk from here
- Tower Hill · 4 min walk
- Best: Morning / Sunset
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