They say the views from Sky Garden are out of this world if Instagram is to be believed. But is it all just fancy marketing with a side of overpriced cocktails? Does the reality match the hype?
In other words, is Sky Garden worth visiting?
In a nutshell, it is – at least, if you want breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, the River Thames, and Tower Bridge. Plus, it boasts restaurants, lush gardens, bars, and even yoga sessions… all with free admission!
Really, there’s more to Sky Garden than meets the eye, as you’ll see through this guide!
Which building is the London Sky Garden in
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The London Sky Garden sits atop the fabulously nicknamed “Walkie-Talkie” building (officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street). Imagine a sleek, oversized walkie-talkie made of glass, bulging out with enough room to hold a mini-jungle inside. That’s the quirky charm of this place!
Think about it: where else can you sip a posh cocktail while surrounded by exotic plants AND get a bird’s-eye view of London? Architect Rafael Viñoly was onto something – this isn’t just a building, it’s an experience.
How to get into the London Sky Garden
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The primary way to get into Sky Garden is to score a free ticket through their official website. These tickets tend to vanish quicker than a squirrel in a nut factory, so book well in advance. Just don’t forget your precious ticket AND a valid ID.
The journey there is simple – the trusty Tube (subway) is your best friend, with Monument, Bank, and Tower Hill stations all a short walk away. The Garden’s doors open at 8 AM on weekdays and 11 AM on weekends.
Feeling a bit adventurous? The Sky Garden might welcome walk-ins if space allows, giving you a chance to win the botanical lottery (though we still recommend booking in advance).
What you’ll find inside Sky Garden
Darwin Brasserie
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Location: Level 36, Sky Garden Walk
Contact: +44 333 772 0020
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 8:30 AM 9:30 PM
Darwin Brasserie isn’t just about the food (though trust me, the food is excellent). It’s the whole package that makes it a Sky Garden gem. The space itself, inspired by the surrounding gardens and understated decor, allows the incredible views to enhance the dining experience.
They’re particularly famous for brunch offerings, which include an array of savoury and sweet items, from smoked salmon and salami to prawn cocktails and a selection of cheeses. Another standout dish is the pearl barley risotto, known for its comforting richness.
Fenchurch Restaurant
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Location: Level 37, Sky Garden Walk
Contact: +44 333 772 0020
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Thursday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Renowned for its refined atmosphere and British contemporary cuisine, Fenchurch presents beautifully crafted dishes that are as much a treat for the eyes as they are for the palate.
One standout dish is the pan-fried halibut paired with bacon and curry sauce, which has received high praise for its exquisite flavours and presentation. This is the place for a celebratory meal, an intimate date, or when you want to impress someone with your impeccable taste (in both food and city views).
Sky Pod Bar
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Location: Sky Garden Walk
Contact: +44 333 772 0020
Opening hours:
- Monday – 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 8:00 AM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
This lively gem within the Sky Garden is all about good drinks, buzzing energy, and panoramic views that’ll leave you breathless.
Craving a cocktail with a kick? Try their signature Watermelon & Chilli Smash. Prefer the classics? They nail the Mojito too.
Insider tip: this sky-high hotspot fills up fast, especially on weekends. So, book ahead to guarantee your spot amidst the cocktail-sipping crowd
Gift Shop and Cafe
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Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Bank holidays – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Sky Garden’s Gift Shop & Cafe are like a welcoming hug on the ground floor – whether you need a boost before your ascent or a sweet treat to savour the memories.
Here, you can fuel up with fresh pastries, satisfying sandwiches, and a decent coffee to conquer all those panoramic views. But the true gem is the gift shop! It’s a treasure trove of goodies, quirky London souvenirs, and a curated selection that proves “gift shop” doesn’t have to mean tacky trinkets.
Frequently asked questions
Sky Garden’s purpose is to improve ventilation and thermal conditions while offering a space that promotes social interaction.
The best time to visit Sky Garden is at sunrise or sunset for stunning views.
Yes, children are allowed in the Sky Garden during the day but must be accompanied by an adult. It’s also best to keep in mind that there are restrictions after 6 PM on weekdays and 9 PM on weekends.
Yes, the Sky Garden is designed to be accessible for people with disabilities since it offers level access, lifts, and accommodating spaces.
