Located at 155 metres above ground in the heart of the City of London, Sky Garden is a public garden, completely free to enter, occupying the top three floors of the 20 Fenchurch Street skyscraper, affectionately known as the Walkie Talkie due to its distinctive shape that widens towards the top.
Sky Garden offers a 360-degree panoramic view across London, allowing you to admire iconic landmarks such as The Shard, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the River Thames as it winds through the city.
Designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly, the skyscraper represents a bold example of contemporary architecture. The garden itself, curated by landscape architecture firm Gillespies, is home to over 2,000 plants from the Mediterranean and South Africa, creating a verdant oasis suspended amongst the clouds.
The open-air terrace on the 37th floor is the heart of Sky Garden. This open space allows you to enjoy a unique perspective of the city without any glass barriers, providing an exhilarating sense of freedom at 155 metres above ground.
The terrace extends along the southern side of the building and offers an unparalleled view of the River Thames, London Bridge and the financial district. On clear days, visibility extends up to 30 kilometres away, encompassing the entire London skyline.
Particularly striking is the eastward view, where you can see the Tower of London from above, its medieval walls standing out among modern skyscrapers. To the west, the dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral dominates the landscape, creating a fascinating contrast between historical and contemporary architecture.
Photography enthusiasts will find their paradise here: sunset bathes the windows of surrounding skyscrapers in pink and orange hues, while in the evening the city glows with a thousand lights, offering perfect opportunities for urban photography. The best time to visit the terrace is in the late afternoon, when warm light shows the panoramas at their finest.
The system of green terraces spans three distinct levels, each designed to evoke a different natural environment. Gillespies designed these spaces with careful consideration of the unique lighting and temperature conditions created by the glass canopy.
The upper terrace recreates the atmosphere of a shaded forest, with tree ferns and figs creating cool areas. This level acts as a transition between the bright exterior and the more intimate interior spaces.
The middle level features a collection of ancient cycads, primitive plants that have existed on Earth for over 280 million years. These plants create a botanical bridge between the upper forest and the Mediterranean garden below.
The lower terrace is the most colourful and vibrant, dominated by drought-resistant Mediterranean and South African species. Here you’ll find magnificent specimens of Agapanthus (African Lily) with their characteristic blue flowers, Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) with spectacular orange and red inflorescences, and the striking Strelitzia reginae (Bird of Paradise) with its exotic blooms.
Among the plants you’ll also find 85 Italian wisteria trees and over 30 fruit trees, along with aromatic herbs such as French lavender and rosemary, which are also used in Sky Garden’s restaurants. A striking 60-metre-long water feature runs through the gardens, creating a pleasant soundscape.
Covered observation spaces are distributed across floors 35, 36 and 37, offering shelter from the elements without compromising the panoramic views. Floor-to-ceiling glazing guarantees optimal visibility in every direction.
On floor 35, the entrance level, there’s a spacious seating area where you can relax whilst admiring views to the north. From here you can appreciate views of Shoreditch and the City, with its distinctive skyscrapers including the Gherkin and the Cheesegrater.
Floor 36 houses the City Garden Bar and offers privileged westward perspectives, with St. Paul’s Cathedral standing out amongst the buildings. Seating distributed around the perimeter allows you to relax comfortably whilst taking in the city views.
Floor 37, the highest level, offers access to the outdoor terrace and the most spectacular views. From this level you can admire the Monument, London Bridge and follow the course of the Thames through to the Docklands.
On the eastern side of Sky Garden is what is considered London’s largest green wall. This vertical installation, designed by specialist company Biotecture, covers a service wall spanning several storeys within the building’s perimeter.
The vertical garden hosts thousands of plants arranged in self-supporting modules creating a suspended carpet of greenery. The automated irrigation system ensures plant health, whilst the plant composition has been carefully selected to offer colour variations throughout the seasons.
This installation has more than aesthetic value: the Living Wall contributes to indoor air quality, absorbs carbon dioxide, produces oxygen and helps regulate humidity levels. It also provides natural thermal and acoustic insulation.
Sky Garden offers several high-quality dining options. Darwin Brasserie, located on floor 36, serves contemporary British cuisine in an informal yet refined setting. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a menu celebrating seasonal British ingredients.
Fenchurch Restaurant, on floor 37, represents the most exclusive dining experience at Sky Garden. The cuisine is sophisticated and contemporary, accompanied by an internationally-acclaimed wine list. The Viñoly Room, a private dining room for up to 18 guests, offers intimacy and privileged views.
Sky Pod Bar, at the centre of floor 35, serves creative cocktails, carefully selected wines and bar food throughout the day. In the evenings it frequently hosts DJ sets and live music, particularly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, establishing itself as one of the city’s most fashionable venues.
City Garden Bar, on floor 36, offers a more relaxed atmosphere with westward views. Here you can enjoy drinks accompanied by small bites, ideal for a pre-dinner aperitif or a sunset cocktail.
On the ground floor is Larch Restaurant, which serves Italian cuisine using seasonal British ingredients. Those dining here can also access Sky Garden, subject to availability.
Entry to Sky Garden is completely free. However, to manage visitor flows and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, you must book your visit in advance via the official website.
Tickets are released three weeks in advance every Monday morning (excluding public holidays). It’s worth being quick: the most sought-after slots, particularly sunset times at weekends, sell out rapidly. The system allows you to book up to 6 tickets simultaneously.
Each ticket is valid for a one-hour time slot from your designated time, although in practice no one will ask you to leave after 60 minutes if you wish to stay longer. Your ticket shows a specific date and time and is non-transferable.
If you’ve booked a table at one of Sky Garden’s restaurants or bars, you don’t need a separate admission ticket. Your restaurant reservation automatically includes access to the garden’s public spaces, allowing you to arrive early to enjoy the views before or after your meal.
For those unable to book online, there’s the possibility of trying your luck as a walk-in visitor (without a booking). Sky Garden does accept a limited number of walk-ins subject to availability, but not after 5:00pm on weekdays. Your chances of success are better on weekdays and during less popular times.
Another option is the Sunrise Experience, available from 8:00am to 9:00am. This ticket includes access to Sky Garden, a pastry and hot drink at Sky Pod Bar.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, you can book brunch at Darwin Brasserie or breakfast at Larch on the ground floor. The latter option, available from 9:15am to 11:00am, includes a pastry or muffin and a main course with tea or coffee, plus access to Sky Garden.
Sky Garden operates a Challenge 25 policy: if you appear under 25 but are over 18, you must show a valid photographic ID (passport, driving licence or PASS card). Digital copies are not accepted.
Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult (over 18). One adult can bring up to 3 children. After 6:00pm on weekdays and 9:00pm at weekends, access for under-16s is not permitted.
The best time to visit Sky Garden depends on the experience you’re seeking. To avoid crowds, weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday, are generally quieter. Weekends can be very busy, particularly in the evenings.
As for timing, early morning (10:00am-11:00am) offers a more relaxed atmosphere and fewer people. The light is excellent for photography and you can enjoy the garden in complete peace.
Sunset is undoubtedly the most spectacular and most popular time, when golden light bathes the city and skyscrapers glow with reflections. Slots between 4:00pm and 6:00pm in winter, and between 7:00pm and 8:30pm in summer, should be booked well in advance.
Evening, after sunset, offers a completely different spectacle: the illuminated city creates a magical atmosphere. Evening access is available only at weekends (until 9:00pm) for free ticket holders.
From a seasonal perspective, each period has its own charm. Spring (March–May) sees the gardens in full bloom, with pleasant temperatures. Summer (June–August) offers the longest days, ideal for enjoying the outdoor terrace. Autumn (September–November) brings spectacular sunsets and fewer crowds. Winter (December–February), whilst the outdoor terraces can be cold, offers the unique atmosphere of the city illuminated for the festive season.
During Christmas and New Year week, check the official website for special opening times, as there may be closures or changes. Occasionally Sky Garden closes for private events: check the closure dates before planning your visit.
Sky Garden is not merely a viewpoint, but a venue that regularly hosts special events and exclusive experiences throughout the year.
Music Nights take place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, transforming Sky Garden into one of London’s trendiest venues. Resident DJs and guest artists create the perfect atmosphere as you sip cocktails with views of the illuminated city. These events are particularly popular with the 25–40 age group and require advance booking.
The Sunrise Experience allows you to witness the sunrise from London’s highest terrace. Available year-round (times vary seasonally), this experience includes early access from 8:00am to 9:00am, a welcome drink, DJ music and the magic of sunrise over the city.
Weekend brunch at Darwin Brasserie has become a fixture for Londoners and tourists alike. The à la carte menu offers British and international specialities, from Full English Breakfast to Eggs Benedict, accompanied by cocktails and panoramic views.
During the festive season, Sky Garden is adorned with special decorations and offers festive menus at its restaurants. The atmosphere is particularly magical, with the city illuminated by Christmas lights visible from above.
For Halloween, Sky Garden hosts London’s highest Halloween party, featuring DJs, themed decorations and special cocktails. The event requires a separate ticket and themed dress code.
Cocktail masterclasses are occasionally organised, allowing you to learn the art of mixology from professional bartenders whilst enjoying the views. These workshops include the preparation of 3–4 cocktails under expert guidance.
Sky Garden is located in the heart of London’s City, making it easily accessible by public transport.
The nearest Underground station is Monument, served by the Circle and District lines, just a 4-minute walk away (approximately 300 metres). Exit the station and head east along Eastcheap Road towards Tower of London, then turn left onto Philpot Lane – the Sky Garden entrance will be on your right.
Other nearby stations include: Bank (Central, Northern, Waterloo & City and DLR lines) a 6-minute walk away; Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) 10 minutes away; Aldgate (Circle and Metropolitan lines) 10 minutes away; Mansion House (Circle and District lines) 10 minutes away.
The most convenient bus routes are 15, 35, 47, 133, 149, 344 and N15 (night service). The nearest stop is Monument Station (H), just a 2-minute walk away. For up-to-date timetables, visit Transport for London.
The recommended visit time for public access is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, enough time to explore all three levels, visit the outdoor terrace and enjoy the panoramic views. If you decide to stop for a drink or a bite at one of the bars, allow at least 1.5–2 hours.
Those dining at the restaurants should plan for 2–3 hours for a full meal plus time to explore the garden. It’s advisable to arrive 30–45 minutes before your restaurant reservation to enjoy the views first.
Yes, booking as soon as possible is highly recommended, especially for weekends and sunset times. Free tickets are released every Monday three weeks in advance, and the most popular slots sell out within hours. If you can’t find availability for your preferred dates, check the website periodically – cancelled tickets from other visitors are often released.
If you’ve booked a free ticket and can no longer visit, please cancel it through the website to allow others to visit. For restaurant reservations, the policy varies – generally you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.
It is possible to visit as a walk-in, but entry is not guaranteed. Sky Garden accepts a limited number of visitors without reservations subject to availability, but not after 5pm on weekdays. Your best chances are on weekdays during the morning opening hours.
Sky Garden enforces a smart casual dress code. The following are not permitted: sportswear, flip-flops, baseball caps and men’s vests. This dress code is particularly important if you plan to dine at the restaurants. For daytime garden visits, the rules are slightly more relaxed, but smart casual attire is still recommended.
There is airport-style security screening at the entrance with baggage scanners and metal detectors. Large suitcases or rucksacks are not permitted. As a general rule, if your baggage wouldn’t be accepted as hand luggage on an aircraft, you cannot bring it into Sky Garden. There is no left luggage facility available, so leave large bags at your hotel.
No, it is not permitted to bring food and drinks from outside. However, Sky Garden offers a range of dining options at various price points, from snack bars to fine dining restaurants. Free water is available at a self-service water fountain at the Sky Pod Bar.
Prices reflect the premium location and quality of the offering. A coffee costs around £3–4, a cocktail £12–16, a beer £6–8. At Darwin Brasserie, lunch can cost £30–50 per person, while at Fenchurch Restaurant you should budget at least £60–80 per person for a full dinner, excluding drinks. Value for money is good considering the location and views.
Yes, Sky Garden is fully accessible. There is step-free access from the entrance and spacious lifts serving all levels. Wheelchairs can move easily throughout all spaces, including the outdoor terrace.
City Card allow you to save on public transport and / or on the entrances to the main tourist attractions.
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