London is a sprawling city that sometimes feels like it’s only getting bigger. Unless having several days at your disposal, you’re unlikely to see all that the city has to offer in one trip; as someone who was born and lived in London for most of her life, I doubt I’ve explored even half of the city.
But, now, there’s one way to see most of London’s iconic landmarks, and all at once.
The recently-opened viewing platform, Horizon 22, located at Bishopsgate is an excellent spot to take in London’s views. The area of Bishopsgate is within the boundaries of the City of London, now making up only a small part of London, but once the very heart of the city, the area pre-dating the London wall. Within the boundaries, old and new collide; you’ll find what remains from the Roman era to newer towers made of glass.
Although I’m no fan of heights, I decided to book tickets to London’s highest free viewing platform to see the sights for myself. Despite booking in September, the earliest tickets available were in late October as from its opening (and the fact it was open to all) it was high in-demand.
Situated on the 58th floor at 254 metres high, iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, the Shard, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral among many others can be seen and admired in the half an hour time slot given. It’s even possible to see past London’s boundaries into the counties beyond – although on a gloomy day in October (when I visited) you can imagine the mist that blocked that view. At its height, it’s Europe’s tallest free viewing platform.
Ignoring my mild vertigo, the scene beyond the windows is a sight to behold. I particularly enjoyed following the Thames, noticing how it sneaked around the centre of the city like a serpent. A particular favourite (bird’s eye!) view was Tower Bridge, leading to the Tower of London.
From this high up, it’s not hard to see how London has architecturally changed over the centuries; from a particular viewpoint, where the Tower of London sits to your right, the building that locally we call the Gherkin (a very modern building) stands directly below your eyeline.
Personally, I prefer the older architecture of London, but Horizon 22 has something to offer everyone with an interest in London’s skyline.
P.S. Be careful when using the elevator – in just under a minute, it will take you straight up to the viewing platform like a bullet – a strange sensation that made my ears pop and left me a bit unsteady! Worthwhile in the end though.
