Horizon 22 is a free public observation deck in the City of London, offering the highest public viewing platform in London. Located on the 58th floor of a modern skyscraper, it provides panoramic views across the capital from 254 metres above ground.
London from Above
Horizon 22 is situated inside 22 Bishopsgate, in the heart of the City of London’s skyscraper cluster. Completed in 2020, the building stands at 278 metres, making it the second-tallest in the UK after The Shard (309.6 m). While primarily an office tower, the building also features a public viewing gallery open to visitors.
From the observation deck, you can enjoy sweeping views across London in nearly every direction. On a clear day, visibility stretches far beyond the city centre. Landmarks visible from Horizon 22 include:
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- BT Tower
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- Canary Wharf
Skyscrapers Around Horizon 22
Horizon 22 stands among some of London’s most recognisable skyscrapers, all within a short walking distance. The area offers a striking sense of scale thanks to the variation in building heights.
Nearby towers include:
- Heron Tower (230 m)
- Leadenhall Building (225 m)
- 30 St Mary Axe (180 m)
- 20 Fenchurch Street (160 m)
The distinctive Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe), completed in 2003, was one of the early 21st-century skyscrapers that helped redefine the City skyline. Many buildings in the area now include public spaces and viewing platforms, which have become increasingly popular with visitors.
Other Observation Decks in the City of London
At the top of the Walkie Talkie building (20 Fenchurch Street), you’ll find Sky Garden, a popular free indoor garden with observation terraces, restaurants and bars. Entry is free, but advance booking is recommended, as Sky Garden is the most popular viewing platform.
On the 40th floor of Heron Tower is Duck & Waffle, open 24 hours a day. Breakfast at sunrise offers a particularly memorable experience high above the City skyline. Reservations are recommended.
On the 50th floor of 8 Bishopsgate, The Lookout offers a similar free viewing experience to Horizon 22. Tickets for the next two weeks become available on Mondays.
Visiting Horizon 22
At street level, visitors pass through ticket control and security before taking a high-speed lift to the 58th floor. Screens inside the lift display the ascent in real time. The observation deck is largely on one level and offers nearly 360-degree views. The on-site Horizon 22 Café serves coffee, tea, cold drinks, champagne and light snacks.
The building is also home to London’s highest restaurants on level 60:
- Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay
- Gordon Ramsay High
The latter also offers an exclusive Chef’s Table experience for a limited number of guests.
Horizon 22 is open daily with free admission, but booking is recommended. Tickets are released on Mondays for the next two weeks. There are sometimes tickets available for the same day, and with some good luck, you might even get a walk-in ticket. We do recommend booking on the Horizon 22 website, though.
