High above London grows a secret garden in the sky. There’s no better place to start a cold, wet day in the city. Or to begin a first visit. Or to end a jolly day in London Town. Here’s everything you need to know for a visit to the Sky Garden in London, which offers incredible views, one of the best interior gardens we’ve ever seen, and wonderful restaurants and bars. Best of all? Like so many of life’s luxuries, this one is free!
stunning views of London at the Sky Garden
On a recent trip to London, we vowed to explore the city with fresh eyes, and only visit places that we had never seen before. Having already visited many of the iconic spots – the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Pall Mall, the Changing of the Guard, the Churchill War Rooms, the Tower of London, Hyde and St. James Parks, Harrods and the London Eye – we were up for something new. And we were pretty short on time.
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So we booked an expert tour guide from the luxury British experience company Noteworthy to show us places in the city that for us were still unexplored terrain. And we’re so glad we did!
There’s so much to London, every visit can be filled with new discoveries. And for us, one of the hidden gems on this trip was the Sky Garden.
What do you need to know before a visit to the Sky Garden in London?
what to know before a visit to the Sky Garden in the City of London
Sitting atop 20 Fenchurch Street – also known as the “Walkie Talkie” – the Sky Garden is exactly what the name implies: a three-story rooftop aerie filled with tropical flowers, ferns, plants and trees with panoramic views of London. If the weather is foul – as it was when we visited – and you’re not ready to spend the entire day inside a museum or two, this is an ideal stop.
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The joke among long-time residents of London is that the reason the Sky Garden has the best views in the city is because you can’t see the building when you’re in it.
When it first opened, the glass panels on the Walkie Talkie’s exterior started fires on the sidewalk below when the sun hit them at just the right angle (causing some to re-name it The Lighter). To say that some feel it’s unlovely – and as a result is unloved – might be an understatement.
What do you need to know before a visit to the Sky Garden in London?
Nevertheless, the views from the top on a rainy day are dreamy and timeless – and your mood will be lifted by the bright birds of paradise and African lilies, the dramatic architecture on display at every turn, and the chance to linger over a cup of tea and a pastry or two while the world passes by.
What do you need to know before a visit to the Sky Garden in London?
The circular space is flanked on both sides by wide staircases that rise alongside “mounds” that are meant to evoke mountains and hills covered with greenery.
From the stairs, you can see over the city, and there are place names etched in the glass so that you know what you’re looking at.
There are little nooks where you can pause and snap photos, or just catch up with your travel companions.
What do you need to know before a visit to the Sky Garden in London?
incredible views for miles
The wonder of the space is due in part to the fact that – for now, at least – there are no other tall buildings close-by. So you can see for miles. And if there’s any natural light available on the day you visit, it will pour splendidly through the glass ceiling.
Other than the Shard, this is the highest vantage point from which the public can see the city. Making it a great way to get acclimated if you’re a first-time visitor. Or one who loves architecture, as you’ll be able to see the marvelous skyline of London in a totally new way.
Sunset at the Sky Garden in London.
As New Yorkers, we think this space surpasses the top of the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock in terms of urban enchantment. One World Trade is probably our closest offering. It hurts a bit to say it, but while we love Gotham, we think London has us beat on this one. Sure, it’s touristy – but it’s also really lovely, and it has a friendly, cheerful vibe.
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restaurants and bars at the sky garden in London
In addition to the Sky Pod and City Garden bars, open all day for casual snacks and drinks, there are two full-service restaurants nestled in the center of the complex.
The menu at Fenchurch, the most formal of the eateries, is described as “British contemporary.”
For a private event, within Restaurant Fenchurch is the Viñoly Room (named after the building’s architect, Rafael Viñoly) – a private dining room that will seat up to 16 guests. Take note: the dress code prohibits “shorts, sportswear, sports trainers or flip flops.” Hipsters, beware.
Darwin Brasserie at the Sky Garden in London. Courtesy Photo.
The Darwin Brasserie is “laid-back but luxe,” with no dress code until after 5:00P, and with rum as the featured libation at the bar.
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tickets and special events at the sky garden in London
If you’re sure of your schedule, you should book ahead for your visit – 90-minute slots are available three days beforehand. You can also walk in, which is what we did. We went at about 9:30A, and we waited no more than 5 minutes.
Sunrise yoga at the Sky Garden in London. Photo Credit: The Merit Club.
There are some clever and fun events that might also suit you. Like Sunrise Yoga and Breakfast, which is offered at 6:30A on weekdays in the City Garden. The class runs for an hour, followed by breakfast. Live Music & DJ Nights run Wednesday through Saturday from 6:30P to 1:00A.
so much to love at the sky garden in London
We didn’t return after dark on our quick first visit to the Sky Garden in London. But we’ll definitely return next time to catch the sunset. Listen to some music. And have a cocktail while the city sparkles below. ‘Cause there’s nothing more British than a garden party.
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For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier Newsletter here. And see luxury in a new light.
