Horizon 22: The Ultimate Free Viewpoint in London

London’s skyline is home to some of the tallest buildings in Europe and incredible historical landmarks, and is a sight that absolutely cannot miss from your bucket list.

But did you know you can actually admire the skyline from the highest viewpoint in the city completely for free? 

Today we’ll be taking a look at Horizon 22, London’s highest viewing platform and arguably the best free viewpoint in the city.

From how to find it and how to book your ticket, to the best time to visit and how it compares to other viewpoints, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this unique attraction.

Let’s get started.

How to get to Horizon 22

Horizon 22 is inside London’s second tallest building, 22 Bishopsgate, in the heart of the Financial District.

Regardless of where you’re staying, you can reach Horizon 22 via both bus and metro.

The building primarily houses office spaces for various companies, so you’ll have to go through the secondary entrance located on the right side of the main hall. You’ll easily recognise it by the large poster with a QR code on it, as well as the security guards by the door.

Booking your tickets

Booking your tickets for Horizon 22 couldn’t be any easier, and you can do in two ways:

• Book online via their website. All you’ll need to do is select your time slot and fill in your name and email address. 

• Book your tickets on the spot by scanning the QR code next to the door and following the same process as if you were booking online. 

Keep in mind that the tickets, while free, are subject to availability.

We booked four tickets on the spot as it was a spur of the moment thing and went in without issues, but the viewpoint does sell out quite regularly. We recommend you book in advance if you’re dead-set on going, and also make sure to respect your time slot and show up on time!

Pro-Tip: 

While the time on your ticket indicates your assigned arrival time, there is no time constraint when it comes to how long you can remain on the platform and you can stay for as long as you like!

Reaching the platform

Once inside, you’ll have to go comply with a quick security check where you will go through a metal detector and your bags will be scanned.

It’s a simple safety measure and it takes seconds, so don’t be alarmed.

Once through security, you’ll be guided by an attendant to an elevator that will carry you up 254m in less than a minute. Don’t worry though, the only thing you might notice is some slight popping in your ears due to the rapid change in air pressure.

Pro-Tip: 

While small bags are fine, bags and luggage larger than L 58cm x W 45cm x D 25cm are not allowed in, and there are no lockers available. Keep that in mind if you’re planning on making this the last stop before you head to the train or to the airport!

The Platform

Once you step out of the elevator you’ll be directly on the viewing platform, where you’ll be able to enjoy an incredible 300° view of London’s skyline!

Because the platform consists of a large open area, it’s easy to move around and admire the view without getting in the way of other visitors (even though we didn’t find the place to be very crowded), while at the same time providing plenty of space for everyone to take pictures.

In addition, the entire platform is enclosed by glass, making it safe for families with children and less uncomfortable for anyone afraid of heights.

If the staggering sight gets to you and you need to sit down, there is a tiny café where you can relax. While they have a very small selection of items, their coffee is really good, so we recommend enjoying a little break there!

The View

Now for the part that you’re really here for, the view. Is it any good?

To put it simply, it’s stunning. 

The 300 degree, 254 meters into the air view of London is something that we don’t believe we’ll ever forget.

Because 22 Bishopsgate is the tallest building in the area, there is nothing blocking the view.

This means that not only do you get an uninterrupted look at some the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower Bridge to name a few, you also get a pretty clear picture of just how ridiculously huge London is.

The city extends in front of you as far as the eye can see, especially on a sunny day, and literally seems to have no end.

View of the iconic building The Shard, seen from the viewpoint at the Horizon 22 in London.

From here you’ll also get a unique view of the UK’s tallest building, The Shard. This incredible supertall skyscraper sits just across the river from Horizon 22, and dominates the skyline from almost everywhere in the city.

How does Horizon 22 compare?

So, how does Horizon 22 compare to other viewpoints in London?

The only two we feel can compete with Horizon 22 in terms of the view are The Shard and the Sky Garden, located right across from 22 Bishopsgate.

• Tickets for The Shard, however, start at £28, and the viewing platform is slightly lower compared to Horizon 22. Considering that you’ll get pretty much the same view, just from the opposite side, we feel that it is not worth the price.

  Also, you won’t get to see an amazing view of the Shard if you’re standing on it.

• As for the Sky Garden, you’ll find it to be much more crowded than Horizon 22 and with a less impressive view, as it is just under 100m shorter.

  With that said, the Sky Garden edges out the competition with an incredible interior design and an open terrace, along with three high-end restaurants and two bars.

  Considering the entrance is free of charge, it’s absolutely worth taking a look.

  However, the Sky Garden has recently gone viral on social media and is often sold-out for months, with huge queues by the entrance. We recommend you book well in advance if you’re set on going there.

What else is nearby?

If you want to make it part of your itinerary, here are a few major sights that are located close to Horizon 22:

The Tower of London

This historical castle has stood watch for over 900 years, and is an iconic part of the city’s skyline. Over the years, the structure has served as a luxurious palace for the royals, a prison for noble and political dissidents and even as a zoo.

It is now also known for housing the famed Crown Jewels. 

Tower Bridge

Located right across from the Tower of London, this is perhaps one of the most recognisable sights in the city. There is a delightful visit that will take through the interior of both towers, showcasing their construction and the operation of the drawbridge.

The view from the walkways connecting the towers is beautiful, especially at sunset. 

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most significant religious structures in the city, and an absolutely stunning sight.

Having served for both funerals and wedding venue for royals and prominent British figures, such as the marriage of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, the Cathedral cannot miss from your bucket list. 

Leadenhall Market

Filled with shops and restaurants, Leadenhall market is one of the oldest in London, and a great place to grab some lunch in between visits.

The beautiful decorations and architecture alone make it worth it to take a detour to see this unique market.

Millennium Bridge

Especially known abroad for featuring in one of the Harry Potter movies, this steel suspension bridge offers a pedestrian only walk across the river Thames.

We especially recommend crossing at night, as you’ll get an unforgettable view of the illuminated St Paul’s Cathedral lined perfectly with the bridge. 

And there you have it!

Now you know everything you need before visiting Horizon 22, London’s highest viewpoint. And don’t forget your camera, you are going to have a blast up there! 

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