Sky Garden is one of London’s most popular free attractions. It combines striking modern architecture, lush Mediterranean-style planting and panoramic skyline views, creating a space that feels more like an elevated urban park than a traditional observation deck.
History and Background
Sky Garden occupies the upper floors of 20 Fenchurch Street, often nicknamed the “Walkie Talkie” due to its distinctive curved shape. The skyscraper was designed by architect Rafael Viñoly and completed in 2014 as part of the City’s ongoing redevelopment. As part of the planning agreement, the developers committed to creating a free public viewing space, which opened in 2015.
The garden was designed as a bright, open environment framed by floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The space is arranged across several interconnected levels, creating a sense of openness while maintaining intimate seating areas throughout.
Architecture and Design
20 Fenchurch Street stands out among London’s skyscrapers thanks to its outward-curving profile. At the top, Sky Garden forms a large glass-enclosed space that contrasts with the dense office environment below. The interior layout emphasises openness and natural light, while the elevated position allows uninterrupted views across the city.
Unlike many viewing platforms in London, Sky Garden focuses equally on atmosphere and experience. Visitors are encouraged to linger, relax and enjoy the space rather than simply take photographs and leave.
The Garden and Atmosphere
Sky Garden is designed as a year-round indoor garden featuring Mediterranean and subtropical plants. The greenery softens the surrounding steel-and-glass structure, creating a greenhouse-like ambience high above the City.
Planting areas divide the space into informal zones, guiding visitors through different levels while providing views of the skyline in other directions. The result is a calm retreat that feels worlds away from the busy financial district below.
Views from Sky Garden
Sky Garden offers 360-degree views across London. The sweeping curve of the Thames, the dense City skyline and the iconic silhouette of The Shard dominate the southern view. Nearby landmarks include Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral.
The experience changes throughout the day. Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, daytime provides the clearest visibility on sunny days, and evenings transform the skyline into a glittering panorama of city lights. There is also an outdoor terrace facing the Thames for open-air views.
Restaurants, Bars and Events
Sky Garden also functions as a dining and event venue. Darwin Brasserie serves seasonal British cuisine, while Fenchurch Restaurant offers a refined fine-dining experience with skyline views. Larch Restaurant, located on the ground floor, specialises in Italian cuisine and may, in some cases, provide access to Sky Garden with a reservation.
Sky Pod and City Garden bars attract evening visitors for cocktails with a view. Sunrise at Sky Garden breakfast sessions take place in the morning, while live music and DJ events are typically held Thursday through Saturday. Seasonal celebrations and special events, including New Year’s Eve parties, add to the appeal. There is also a regular morning yoga session, which can be very special.
Tickets and Entry
Although entry to Sky Garden is free, advance booking via the official website is strongly recommended. Tickets are released on Mondays three weeks in advance, and popular time slots often fill up. Occasionally, visitors may gain entry early in the morning without a booking, but this cannot be guaranteed.
All visitors pass through a security check at ground level. Large suitcases are not permitted, and a valid photo ID may be required.
Location and Transport
Sky Garden is located in the City of London, within walking distance of London Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral. The nearest Underground stations are Monument and Bank, both just a short walk away.
Its central location makes Sky Garden easy to combine with a visit to the Tower of London, a Thames riverside walk, or a broader City of London sightseeing route.
