Best places to stay:
The Shard and London skyline
There is nowhere in this hotel, set on floors 34 to 52 of London’s tallest building, that doesn’t offer a staggering, sky-scraping view of the capital.
The Shard oozes luxury from every pore; suites come with telescopes, walk-in wardrobes and butlers, while the pocket-sized infinity pool, up on the 52nd floor, is possibly the capital’s most spectacular place for a dip (or possibly just a float, as it’s a tad small to swim properly).
This is a grand, upscale address; don’t come expecting quirky London charm; instead, gaggles of orchids and oceans of marble create a pleasingly exotic feel.
Pre-book a window table at Gong; the city’s ultimate sundowner spot.
The Shangri La is set directly above London Bridge station, with Borough Market a stone’s throw away. The hotel forecourt opens out onto a relatively quiet side street, but it remains a station area, so there are usually people come and going at all hours.
Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe and the river are all within walking distance, as is the buzzy restaurant scene along Bermondsey Street.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.3 miles]
London’s premier gastro hub, with over 100 stalls in a historic covered market, offering everything from artisan breads and cheeses to street food, hand-made chocolates and vegan cakes.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.5 miles]
A treasured survivor of the Second World War, this towering naval warship moored on the Thames is now one of London’s most fascinating military museums.
Best for ages: 4+ | £23
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.8 miles]
This suspension bridge, built in 1894 across the River Thames, is one of London, if not the world’s, most famous landmarks and an architectural marvel.
Best for ages: 6+ | £12
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.8 miles]
Shakespeare’s works are brought vividly to life at this half-timbered, riverside replica of the Bard’s Elizabethan theatre. A pilgrimage for Shakespeare fans.
Best for ages: 13+ | £10 | 1-3 hours
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0 miles]
Step into Renzo Piano’s iconic Shard, and ride up to the 72nd floor, to stand 800ft above London for the loftiest views in the capital.
Best for ages: 10+ | £25
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.2 miles]
Hidden away in the attic of St Thomas’s Church is Britain’s oldest surviving operating theatre – recreated in its entirety. Built in 1822, before the invention of anesthetics, it was located in the eaves to muffle patients’ screams.
Best for ages: 13+ | £750
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.6 miles]
Provocative and pricey works by modern British artists, displayed in one of London’s best commercial galleries.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
London, United Kingdom (UK)[0.8 miles]
This atmospheric indoor garden, occupying 3 floors at the top of a skyscraper, offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the city. There’s an observation deck and several dining options – a fine dining restaurant, an Italian restaurant and a brasserie – all with views. A great place to break from sightseeing.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)
World-class culture, fashion, music, food and history – and a mind-boggling array of bucket list experiences – packed into one extraordinary, incomparable destination.
