If you are planning a trip to The View from the Shard or just visiting the London Bridge area and are wondering what there is to do, then look no further! This page will guide you through all the best attractions, activities and sights within walking distance of the Shard.
1. Hay’s Galleria
Formally a shipping dock for the Port of London, Hay’s Galleria was redeveloped in the 1980’s to create a beautiful indoor market, with shops, cafés and restaurants. A perfect atmosphere and river side pubs with excellent views of the Tower of London, this is a perfect area to chill out after a trip to the Shard.
Located on Tooley street, this is about a 5 minute walk from the Shard
2. HMS Belfast
Explore a real piece of British WW2 history on HMS Belfast, a floating museum brought to you by the Imperial War Museum. HMS Belfast is last ship of her type to serve in WW2 and allows you to imagine life at sea (and at war) for the sailors. Get up close with the giant guns and go deep inside the historic bowels of the ship.
The cost to visit HMS Belfast is only £12.80 (children go free!) and is located just a stone’s throw away from the Shard.
See Also: Shard View and Three Course Meal Package
3. Tower Bridge
One if the defining London landmarks and the most famous bridge in the world, Tower Bridge is an absolute must see if you are looking for things to do near the Shard.
You now have the opportunity to explore Tower Bridge like never before with the Tower Bridge Experience. For £9 you can walk along the 45m high walkways and experience some stunning views, visit the Victorian engine rooms and discover the history of the bridge with a range of exhibitions.
4. Borough Market
Borough Market is a foodies dream; it’s one of the oldest and most respected markets in London with fine British and International produce from around the world. If you are looking something exotic to eat or want to sample to finest organic produce money can buy, Borough Market is the place to go.
With its unique atmosphere and alluring smells, you would be silly not to visit Borough Market if you happen to find yourself near the Shard, as it’s literally just down the road!
5. The London Bridge and Tombs Experience
Said to be one of the scariest attractions in the UK, the London Bridge and Tombs experience will take you through the 2000 year history of London Bridge where all the murders, warfare and death will be re-enacted before your eyes. You will then be taken down into the tombs, once a burial place for the dead, where the horrors will continue to unfold.
This will be an educational trip for anyone willing to visit; but the idea is to scare guests, so this isn’t one for the feint hearted.
6. More London
If you are just looking for somewhere to kick back and relax within a 5 minute walk of the Shard, then there is no better place than More London. Built a few years ago primarily as a business park, the area has become a hub of activity with restaurants, bars and fast food places opening in abundance.
There are plenty of benches and green areas to sit and make sure you bring the kids during summer months when water jets spray from the ground creating a great play area. You can also enjoy views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks such as Tower bridge, the Tower of London, The Gherkin, HMS Belfast and, of course, The Shard.
All these attractions are less than half a mile from The Shard, so be sure to check them out once you buy your Shard tickets and visit the UK’s tallest building!
