Horizon 22 ascends over London, offering free panoramic views from Europe’s tallest viewing platform
London, renowned for being one of Europe’s tourist hotspots and hosting the airport with the world’s most international connections, has unveiled a new attraction distinguished not only by its striking height but also by its accessibility.
On 27th September, the viewing platform Horizon 22 opened its doors, claimed to be the tallest in Europe, from which visitors can admire the majestic British capital from an altitude of 254 metres. Located on the 58th floor of Bishopsgate 22, the platform can host up to 290 people simultaneously and, notably, offers free access to the public, provided they book tickets online.
In a context where experiences in skyscrapers, such as the renowned The Shard and the iconic London Eye ferris wheel, come with entry fees around £31, this proposition stands out as an inclusive and accessible alternative for tourists and locals alike. Despite being free, Horizon 22 has sparked immense interest, with the first 30,000 tickets quickly selling out and current availability limited only to November for the rest of the year.
The structure
Boasting a structure that rises to 278 metres and spans 62 floors, 22 Bishopsgate, designed by PLP Architecture, stands as the second-tallest building in the UK, only surpassed by The Shard. The viewing platform allows visitors to enjoy 360-degree views encompassing everything from St. Paul’s Cathedral and Parliament to the distant Wembley Stadium, passing by the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the iconic Tower Bridge.
Although viewing platforms are a relatively recent addition to the London landscape, as pointed out by Simon Usborne of the Financial Times, they have become coveted attractions for those seeking to appreciate the city from above. For decades, tourists have ascended various elevated points of the city, such as the dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral and, since the year 2000, the London Eye ferris wheel.
As the demand for these lofty experiences in the city continues to soar, Horizon 22 is expected to draw a wide spectrum of visitors, from architecture enthusiasts to families seeking a unique city perspective, thanks to its free entry policy and the prominence of its views. Horizon 22 is open to visitors seven days a week, with varying hours designed to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience London from a new horizon.
