The Shard (London) History

The Shard, London, United Kingdom: A Modern Marvel in Tourism

The Shard, also referred to as the Shard of Glass, Shard London Bridge, and formerly London Bridge Tower, is a 95-story supertall skyscraper designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano. Since its opening to the public in February 2013, it has become one of London's most prestigious and iconic landmarks, attracting tourists from around the globe.

History of The Shard

The Shard's development was a significant moment in London's architectural history. The idea was conceived in 2000 by Irvine Sellar, the building's developer, and his then-partner CLS Holdings. Planning permission was granted in 2003, but the project experienced a series of delays due to objections from English Heritage, who were concerned about the building's potential impact on the skyline. Despite this, construction eventually began in March 2009.

The Shard's official inauguration was on 5 July 2012 and opened to the public on 1 February 2013. With its 309.6 meters (1,016 feet) height, The Shard quickly became known as the tallest building in the UK, the tallest building in the European Union, and the sixth-tallest building in Europe.

Tourism at The Shard

Visitors are drawn to The Shard for its distinctive, shard-like design and the unparalleled 360-degree views it offers of the city of London. The observation deck, known as "The View from The Shard," located on floors 68, 69, and 72, is the highest viewpoint in London and has become a must-visit destination for tourists. It provides an opportunity to see London from a perspective that was never previously possible.

Apart from the observation deck, The Shard houses a range of high-end restaurants and bars, and its premium hotel, the Shangri-La Hotel, occupies floors 34 to 52. This mix of amenities has made The Shard an all-encompassing destination that offers more than just spectacular views but also a luxurious experience for dining, events, and stays.

Latest Tourism Trends at The Shard

The Shard has kept up with changing tourism trends by offering unique experiences such as:

• Yoga classes: Early morning yoga classes are provided on the open-air sky deck, merging wellness and tourism with the city's stunning skyline as the backdrop.
• Virtual reality experiences: Attracting tech-savvy tourists, The Shard has incorporated VR elements that allow visitors to 'slide' down the building or experience the extreme heights in a playful, innovative manner.
• Silent discos: Parties at 310 meters above London, offering an experience that is both modern in its execution and thrilling given the location.

Moreover, The Shard has placed a focus on sustainability and responsible tourism. It has won awards for its architectural design that prioritizes energy and water efficiency, making it an appealing destination for eco-conscious travelers.

As tourism trends continue to evolve, embracing technology and personalized experiences, The Shard is expected to remain at the forefront by introducing innovative ways to draw and entertain the international and local visitors, cementing its place as a staple of modern London's tourism scene.