Destination London: Shangri-La The Shard offers a superb skyline stay

As the hotel celebrates 10 years, it remains the height of luxury.

At Shangri-La The Shard, London, you can wake up with your head in the clouds. Located in Western Europe’s tallest building, the hotel starts on level 34 and is 125 metres high. Wherever you stand (or sleep), you can indulge in a lavish view of London, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that show off the old, new and futuristic buildings. 

Shangri-La The Shard, London is located in London Bridge, with its vibrant mix of locals and tourists. The bird’s eye view overlooks trains snaking into the station, and on the dazzling doorstep is a rich, cultural history. Borough Market, with its food and drinks stalls, dates back to the 12th-century, and Bermondsey Street’s galleries, museums and shops ranging from Peter Layton’s Glassblowing workshops to Zandra Rhodes’ fashion studio. 

In 2014, The Shard strutted onto the scene with its sleek supermodel of a building, and ushered the city’s skyline into its skyscraper era. Designed by the architect Renzo Piano, the pyramid-shaped building stands at 1,016 feet. Now, it is celebrating its 10th anniversary and Shangri-La The Shard, London has unveiled special experiences, from a Champagne cruise on the River Thames to a jewellery making workshop with Alex Monroe. As the icon marks a milestone, it’s a terrific time to visit.  

Rooms and suites 

Shangri-La The Shard, London’s lobby is luxurious without being loud. Located on the 34th floor, it includes blooming bouquets, magnificent marbles, soft sofas and Insta-worthy views. The hotel is home to 202 rooms and suites, and 13 floors of residential apartments. Due to the building’s design, each one has a unique layout. The options range from the Superior Shard Room to an interconnecting suite and room, which spans 2,561 square feet.

The smart and smiley staff are happy to go above and beyond, and check us into the Deluxe City View Room. The room faces North East London, and we feel like a star waiting to greet its audience. Upon opening the door, the curtain rises like a movie theatre, and the widescreen view overlooks blockbuster sights. Binoculars are available if you want a close-up of Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the River Thames. The supporting acts span Chinoiserie touches, Frette linens and books including James Hilton’s Lost Horizon.

The highlight is the big, beautiful bathroom. Not only does it have a spacious shower, but a tub that faces the view. The finer details are finished with finesse and friendliness. The staff are on hand to run a romantic bath, complete with rose petals. A note reminds you that the floor is oh-so shiny but potentially slippery. And Jo Loves products, created by Jo Malone, showcase a British entrepreneur. 

Restaurants and bars 

Shangri-La The Shard, London is home to a world-class restaurant and bar. TĪNG Restaurant is an all-day dining restaurant, and showcases contemporary Asian dishes. Breakfast is an elegant experience, and offers a fusion of flavours. The buffet includes the best of Asian and British bites, and the à la carte menu ranges from a Full English to Plain Cogee. The set lunch and dinner menu includes Organic Celeriac and Black Truffle, Organic Stuffed Chicken and Oriental Brownies infused with sake, no less. 

The bars include Bar 31 for craft beer and Asian meets British cuisine; and Sky Lounge for bites, brunch and beverages. Situated on the 52nd floor, Gōng is head and shoulders above its competitors, and is the highest hotel bar in Europe. Drink the Asian-inspired cocktails, and dig into the Asian cuisine. Perfect for a proposal – which the Shangri-La The Shard, London specialises in – the venue attracts a mix of romantic couples, business meetings and hotel guests. And, it’s a premium place to watch the sky twinkle from day to night. 

Facilities 

What Shangri-La The Shard, London lacks in a spa, it makes up for with its pool. Located on the 52nd floor, the Infinity Sky Pool must be booked in advance. We arrive at 6am, and it feels like we have London – and the pool – to ourselves. The facilities include the state-of-the-art Sky Gym and Sky Sauna. Plus, the hotel has introduced a new shuttle service to Selfridges on Oxford Street, so you can shop in style. 

Shangri-La The Shard, London is a powerhouse brand in a powerhouse building. The excitement began from the moment we booked, until the moment we checked out. The stay was filled with one-of-a-kind experiences and wish-you-were-here moments. It’s rare you can say the name of a hotel, and the address will be revered around the world.

Sleep on cloud Shard. 

GO: Visit www.shangri-la.com for more information.