HORIZON 22
Website: https://horizon22.co.uk/
Horizon 22 address: 22 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4AJ
London is home to more gigantic skyscrapers than any other city in a European city. Therefore, it's hardly surprising that the Horizon 22 building now boasts the highest free viewing platform. Reaching level 58 in just 41 seconds is made possible by the new viewpoint for photographers and Instagrammers.
Views at Horizon 22 are panoramic of the city, and the cost is nothing. You do need to keep an eye on dates as pretty much all dates are being booked up pretty quickly.
ARRIVAL at Horizon 22
There is a large '22' on a building if you are heading down Bishopsgate from Liverpool Street station. Proceed towards the south end of the building, and you will eventually arrive at the entrance of Horizon 22. It was the building farther down that had the first entrance. After scanning your barcode upon entry, you will be required to go through security, much like at an airport.
Go around the corner to the lifts and ascend to level 58 once your bags have been checked. Reaching the upper mezzanine level viewing platform is a quick ride that might make your ears pop.
The most popular area has a great view overlooking The Thames. Looking up the river towards Westminster, you can see Buckingham Palace and The London Eye. Glancing across, The Shard and the "Walkie Talkie" building are in front of you. (That's the location of the Sky Garden.) And then continue around to the left to see Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. With Canary Wharf at the river's bend, the view comes to an end close to The Gherkin.
Views from above at Horizon 22
I've snapped few shots from my camera otherwise you can head over to my Instagram to view the whole concept at Horizon 22. You can see views of The City if you descend and turn right. Even though I visited in the last hour, it was difficult to see the other buildings in the distance due to the fog.
If you’re already itching to get up 254 metres high, you can book your free ticket to the platform now. You’ll be able to secure your place on the newest free viewing platform on the block if you're quick as dates are being booked up pretty quickly.
While planning your visit, keep in mind that this is an alternative to Sky Garden, which is often filled with free reservations due to high demand. Except on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Eve, the views from Horizon 22's top 58 levels will be accessible seven days a week throughout the year. If you're lucky, a few walk-in spots may be available each day.
There's St. Paul's Cathedral. As soon as you see the BT Tower, cast your eyes further to see whether the arch of Wembley Stadium is visible.
No Time Limit at Horizon 22
There is no time limit on your stay once you arrive, although you do need to select an arrival time slot.
There's a cafe, and drinks cost £3–£4 for a hot drink, which is standard for London. After taking in the views, you could stay longer at the cafe because it has a few tables and chairs. Even if you stay for a coffee, you will likely spend less than an hour there. In the end, you ran out of things to do, so I only spent about 45 minutes. Unless you're catching up over coffee with friends, etc.
However, if you're in London, I strongly advise you to visit at least once because the observatory deck is a must-see. This is definitely for those who like to take pictures of buildings or views, especially those of London.
Opening Hours
Horizon 22 is open seven days a week.
Weekdays: 10.00 – 18.00
Saturday: 10.00 – 17.00
Sunday: 10.00 – 16.00
You may enjoy my other attractions in London posts:
https://adilmusa.com/winter-wonderland-hyde-park/
www.adilmusa.com/sky-garden-london
London-based Food, Travel & Lifestyle blogger. Blog space for all things FOODS, LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL, ATTRACTIONS & PRODUCTS. My blog has provided me with a real interest in food, lifestyle and travel. For collaborations & press enquiries - please email me at [email protected].
