‌

Why is the Sky Garden a must-visit attraction?

Sky Garden offers something truly rare in London: the city’s highest public garden, set atop the famous Walkie Talkie building. Spread across three levels, this indoor oasis combines greenery, restaurants nestled among the plants, open viewing terraces, and skyline views in one space. From its curved glass walls and wide walkways, you can admire some of London’s most recognisable landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the River Thames, without the adrenaline of thrill-based attractions.

What makes Sky Garden even more interesting is its focus on sustainability. The garden features drought-resistant Mediterranean and South African plant species and makes use of energy-efficient systems, rainwater management, and natural ventilation, creating a green space in the heart of the city.

What to see at the Sky Garden?

Indoor garden

The heart of Sky Garden is its indoor landscape, filled with plants carefully chosen to thrive year-round. Take your time walking through Mediterranean and South African species, including African Lilies and Bird of Paradise, which create a lush green oasis high above the city.

Panoramic viewing levels

Sky Garden is spread across three levels, and each one offers a slightly different view of London. As you move between them, the skyline subtly changes, so it’s worth slowing down and exploring each level at your own pace.

London landmarks from above

From inside Sky Garden, many of London’s most famous landmarks come into view. Follow the River Thames as it winds through the city, spot the dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and The Shard, and look out toward the modern skyline of Canary Wharf.

Sky Pod Bar and dining spaces

Spaces like the Sky Pod Bar and nearby dining areas add to the relaxed feel of Sky Garden. Even if you are not sitting down for a meal, they create great spots to pause, enjoy the atmosphere, and take in the skyline surrounded by greenery.

Highlights of Sky Garden in London

Visitors enjoying the view at Sky Garden, London with cityscape backdrop.

Lush indoor planting

Wander through a vibrant indoor garden with over 2,500 plants, including Bird of Paradise, African Lily, and Red Hot Poker.

Sky Garden London interior with lush greenery and city view through large windows.
Sky Garden interior with lush greenery and visitors at 20 Fenchurch Street, London.
Sky Garden London interior with lush greenery and city views through large windows.
Sky Garden open terrace with city view and greenery in London.

Brief history of Sky Garden

Sky Garden sits at the very top of 20 Fenchurch Street, right in the heart of the City of London. The building was completed in 2014 after several years of planning and construction, and at 160 meters tall, it quickly became one of London’s most distinctive skyscrapers. The three-story garden opened in January 2015, providing a rare public green space high above the city streets. It was part of the planning agreement that allowed such a large office building in this historic area. Since opening, Sky Garden has become a must-visit spot, known for its lush indoor planting and unbeatable views of landmarks such as the Shard, Tower Bridge, and the River Thames.

Who built Sky Garden?

Visitors walking through lush greenery at The Sky Garden, 20 Fenchurch Street, London.

Sky Garden was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly, who wanted to create a space where greenery and public access meet high above the city. The landscape architects at Gillespies brought the vision to life, carefully selecting Mediterranean and South African plants that thrive indoors. Together, they created a garden that blends architecture and nature in a way that feels open, bright, and welcoming.

Architecture of Sky Garden

Sky Garden is a perfect example of architecture and greenery working together to create a social and scenic destination in London. Taking up the top three floors of 20 Fenchurch Street, a neo-futurist skyscraper designed by Rafael Viñoly and famous for its top-heavy shape, the garden features large glass panels that let in natural light and offer wide, uninterrupted views of the London skyline from every angle.

Inside, the garden flows from shaded areas filled with tree ferns to colourful terraces planted with flowers and shrubs that thrive under the glass canopy. The design blends landscape and structure seamlessly, creating a space that feels airy, calm, and inviting despite being so high above the streets.

Frequently asked questions about Sky Garden in London

You can choose early access tickets or combo tickets with the London Eye, Thames River Cruise, or Tower of London for a fuller experience.

More reads

Plan your visit

Timings

Directions