Horizon 22 with Kids: London’s New Free Viewing Gallery

Embark on a wallet-friendly family adventure in the heart of London with the recently unveiled Horizon 22 viewing gallery. Set against the backdrop of captivating vistas, this attraction comes with the added bonus of no entrance fee—an enticing prospect for families exploring central London without breaking the bank (because, let’s face it, who isn’t mindful of their budget these days?).

In this post, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison pitting Horizon 22 against renowned London landmarks like the Shard and Sky Garden.

Saturday sunrises at Horizon 22, Europe’s Highest Free Public Viewing Gallery!

Pre-bookings open Wednesday 20th September ahead of London’s latest must visit attraction opening on Wednesday 27th September. pic.twitter.com/yp2zOfbxWK

— Horizon 22 (@horizon22B) August 26, 2023

Familly-friendly and secure

Prepare for an unforgettable day out, because Horizon 22 might become your new favourite spot in London. With its grand opening scheduled for September 20th, this viewing gallery is not only a treat for the eyes but also a great option for families seeking a memorable adventure without the price tag.

Horizon 22 extends a warm welcome to youngsters while ensuring their safety and enjoyment. When visiting the gallery, children are welcome to explore, accompanied by a responsible adult. Inside, a secure environment awaits, providing peace of mind to parents.

Icons and Landmarks from Above

Famous landmarks you can see from Horizon 22 include the unmistakable ‘Cheesegrater,’ the captivating ‘Walkie Talkie,’ the majestic ‘Gherkin,’ the timeless St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the iconic Tower Bridge. Or gaze across the River Thames to witness the Shard, creating a tapestry of London’s architectural marvels.

A Towering Adventure

Rising proudly on the 58th level of the remarkable 22 Bishopsgate Tower—the tallest structure in the City—Horizon 22 is poised to take you on an extraordinary journey above the clouds. Mark your calendars for September 27th, the day when the gallery’s doors swing open to unveil a panorama that will steal your breath away.

Opening Hours and Access

Welcoming visitors seven days a week from 10 am onwards, with weekdays closing at 6 pm, Saturdays at 5 pm, and Sundays and Bank Holidays at 4 pm. Families with inpatient toddlers will be happy to hear that they will ascend to the gallery in just 41 seconds, courtesy of two high-speed lifts that whisk you upwards at a remarkable speed of up to 8 meters per second.

Perched at an astonishing height of 254 meters above ground, Horizon 22 stands as a symbol of London’s architectural splendour. A little higher than the Shard’s View from the Shard, situated on the 72nd level of the city’s tallest skyscraper across the river, this attraction offers an unparalleled experience that won’t cost you a penny.

Plan Your Visit: Booking Your Spot

As anticipation grows, make sure to secure your spot by pre-booking through the dedicated booking page launching on September 20th. For those who thrive on spontaneity, a limited number of walk-in slots will be available. However, considering the popularity of attractions like the renowned Sky Garden, it’s advisable to secure your reservation well in advance—perhaps even days or weeks before your planned visit.

Horizon 22 vs. Sky Garden and The Shard

Drawing parallels to the acclaimed Sky Garden (also free of charge), recognized as London’s highest public garden, Horizon 22 offers a thrilling alternative. While the Sky Garden sits at a height of around 150 meters above the city, Horizon 22 elevates your experience to much greater heights.

The gallery stands at 254 metres above ground, marginally higher than the 244-metre-high View from the Shard on the 72nd level of London’s tallest skyscraper across the river, although that costs £32 to visit. As soon as we’ve been to check out Horizon 22 we’ll be back with a more detailed review of the experience in comparison with the Shard and Sky Garden.

London’s Highest Viewpoints 2023

Curious about the loftiest landmarks that grace London’s skyline? Here is an up-to-date comparison of the 25 highest viewpoints: