The view from Horizon 22

Move over The Shard. You can now go higher (!) and pay nothing for the view at Horizon 22 (22 Bishopgate, free entry with a lift up to the 58th floor, book tickets or try getting a walk up on the day). Views are pretty amazing too.

Can that be right? Surely The Shard is Britain’s tallest visiting platform? Apparently no longer. Due to the location of Horizon 22’s viewing floor being on the 58th floor, coupled with the fact that the building itself is set on a hill, means that the viewing platform is 10 metres above The Shard’s. A fair percentage of the Shard’s height is incorporated into it’s tapering peak where the public can’t go but this doesn’t mean it’s over for the building in terms of visitors.

The Shard remains more of a visitor experience with displays, a gift shop and, for me most importantly, a feeling of fresh air at its height. Horizon 22’s lift whisks you up in an incredibly short space of time to it’s wide open spaces but at the present time there really is only the view on offer (apart from a small coffee stand). It’s an incredible view though, looking down on the city from it’s 300 degree panoramic windows.

A notable mention should be made of both the nearby Sky Garden and 120 Fenchurch Street. Sky Garden has the place you’d most like to linger with its split levels, planting and refreshment options. 120 Fenchurch Street feels much more relaxed with it’s extensive gardens. Which one you prefer is really down to budget and what you want to get out of your experience.