Review of Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London

Rising to nearly 310 metres, The Shard redefines London’s skyline as Western Europe’s tallest architectural marvel. This iconic structure, envisioned by acclaimed architect Renzo Piano and completed in 2014, was meticulously designed to evoke the image of a shimmering glass shard piercing the city’s heart.  

The Shangri-La Hotel, occupying levels 34 to 52 of this 95-storey skyscraper, delivers an elevated luxury experience with 202 elegant rooms and suites. Since its debut, the hotel has become synonymous with breathtaking panoramic vistas over London, contemporary Asian-influenced interiors, and unparalleled amenities—including the city’s highest infinity pool, a curated selection of restaurants and bars, sophisticated meeting spaces, and, above all, those mesmerizing views that stretch beyond the horizon.

Perfectly positioned in the vibrant Southwark district, The Shard stands adjacent to London Bridge Station on the south bank of the Thames, offering guests seamless access to London’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

While the luxury shopping of Knightsbridge and Mayfair is about a 30-minute drive away, many of London’s top cultural sites are just steps from the hotel. Walk to the Tate Modern for world-class contemporary art, explore the historic Borough Market for gourmet delights, or take in performances at Shakespeare’s Globe. Other nearby icons include St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the legendary Tower Bridge—all easily explored on foot. Business travelers will appreciate proximity to the City, while families can enjoy a more tranquil yet central base away from the busiest tourist corridors. 

The hotel is approximately 32 kilometers from Heathrow Airport, and a taxi to St Pancras International (Eurostar terminal), Waterloo (Heathrow Express), or Victoria Station (Gatwick Express) typically takes under half an hour. London City Airport is also a convenient short ride away, making arrivals and departures effortless for international and domestic travelers alike. 

Spanning fifteen high-rise floors (levels 36 to 51), the Shangri-La offers 185 meticulously designed rooms and 17 suites—including five exquisite signature suites. Every accommodation features floor-to-ceiling windows, plush Frette linens atop signature Shangri-La beds, and luxurious marble bathrooms with radiant heated floors and discreet in-mirror televisions. The bathrooms are stocked with L’Occitane amenities, infusing the space with the essence of Provence. Furnishings blend sleek modernity with refined Asian accents, reflecting the brand’s heritage.

Guests can select a room with sweeping views of central London or gaze out toward the rolling countryside. On clear days, the panorama extends up to 60 kilometers, while evenings offer a magical tableau of city lights and starry skies.

Suites provide expansive living spaces, private entrances, personal butler service, dining areas, kitchenettes, and bathrooms enhanced with Acqua di Parma amenities—offering a touch of Milanese sophistication. Each suite is also equipped with a telescope, inviting guests to discover London’s landmarks from above.

Room sizes begin at 30 square metres (322 square feet) and reach an impressive 232 square metres (2,494 square feet) in the grand Shangri-La Suite, ensuring options for every type of luxury traveler. 

Your luxury experience starts before you even set foot inside. The Shard’s silhouette is an unmistakable beacon for arriving guests—whether by air, rail, or road. Upon arrival, guests are greeted at the ground floor reception and whisked upwards on high-speed lifts (among the fastest in London) to their rooms or suites. Valet parking is available for those arriving by car. 

The Shangri-La’s service philosophy draws on its Asian roots, delivering genuinely warm hospitality at every interaction. Staff members are attentive, professional, and eager to anticipate guest needs, consistently earning the hotel accolades for service excellence.

After soaking in the cityscape from your room, indulge in the hotel’s culinary venues or ascend to the 52nd floor Sky Pool, sauna, and fitness center. The infinity pool, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass, offers unrivaled views of London and beyond. While there is no dedicated spa, a range of wellness treatments can be arranged in-room for bespoke relaxation.

Hotel guests enjoy exclusive access to higher floors of The Shard, including the Sky Boutique on level 68, the main indoor observation deck on 69, and the open-air viewing platform on level 72—soaring 244 metres (801 feet) above ground for a truly unforgettable perspective.

The property is fully accessible for wheelchair users. Small pets are welcome in designated rooms for an additional fee, with the exception of public areas. Assistance dogs are permitted throughout the hotel.  

The Shard stands as a modern architectural icon, harmoniously marrying glass, steel, and concrete in a dramatic yet inviting form. Far from feeling austere, the building injects a futuristic energy into London’s rich architectural tapestry—seamlessly blending innovation with the city’s centuries-old heritage.

The Shangri-La’s interiors are a masterclass in modern Chinoiserie, where subtle Eastern influences meet contemporary European design. The result is a sophisticated, tranquil ambiance that perfectly complements the building’s striking exterior. 

Bar 31, located at street level, is the hotel’s lively hub for locally brewed craft beers, select wines, and artisanal snacks.

On the 34th floor, Sky Lounge serves a curated menu of small plates, teas, and specialty coffees, all paired with sweeping city views.

Level 35 is home to TĪNG, the hotel’s acclaimed signature restaurant. Here, guests enjoy à la carte and buffet breakfasts, refined lunches, traditional afternoon teas, and elegant dinners—all framed by stunning vistas. The menu, which now emphasizes modern British cuisine with Asian influences, has earned praise for its innovative seasonal dishes and creative plant-based options.

At the very top, GŎNG on level 52 is London’s highest hotel bar. Sip on rare Japanese whiskies, vintage champagnes, or imaginative cocktails while gazing across the capital’s ever-evolving skyline. The bar’s mixologists are renowned for their inventive approach and bespoke creations.  

For ultimate privacy, the hotel offers 24-hour in-room dining with a diverse international menu.

The Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London is committed to social responsibility, supporting Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital through fundraising, hosting charitable events, and engaging with local healthcare workers. The property also organizes food drives and partners with nonprofits across the city.

In its kitchens, the hotel prioritizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients—much of which comes directly from nearby Borough Market. The Shard itself features an advanced combined heat and power system, generating electricity and heat onsite to minimize energy loss and improve efficiency, reflecting the building’s ongoing commitment to sustainable operations.

• Every room and suite includes a telescope or binoculars and a detailed skyline guide for immersive city exploration
• Swimming in the Sky Pool at sunrise or after dark—each visit reveals a new perspective on London’s shifting cityscape
• Spectacular, unobstructed views from every window—no matter where you stay

Businessclass empowers you to discover the most competitive hotel rates by comparing prices across all leading suppliers. Search above for the best offers on the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London.