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Your guide to Christmas at The Shard

Christmas at The Shard brings festive sparkle to one of London’s most iconic landmarks. From luxurious seasonal dining high above the city to private Christmas parties and the famous Shard Lights display, this guide helps you plan the perfect winter celebration at London’s tallest building.

Make your Christmas at The Shard extraordinary

Celebrate Christmas at The Shard with skyline dining, elegant festive menus, private events, and the iconic Shard Lights glowing above the London skyline.

What to expect during Christmas at Shard

  • Festive skyline dining: Enjoy luxurious seasonal menus at TĪNG Restaurant on level 35, offering winter flavours, handcrafted pastries, and breathtaking city views during Christmas at The Shard.
  • Afternoon tea with a festive touch: Delight in a seasonal afternoon tea inspired by winter flavours, featuring artisanal pastries, scones, cranberry jam, and London views stretching far across the city.
  • Exclusive Christmas parties: Aqua Shard on level 31 offers a spectacular setting for Christmas parties, with private dining, semi-exclusive spaces, and capacity for up to 700 guests when combined with Hutong.
  • Iconic Shard lights: Each evening, the building transforms into a glowing festive landmark. The Christmas at The Shard light display showcases dynamic patterns, community-designed sequences, and energy-efficient illumination visible up to 40 miles away.

Christmas at Shard events

The Shard lights

  • Dates: Switch-on on 25 November 2025
  • Location: External building display
  • Included with admission: Tickets available with us
  • Age restriction: Suitable for all ages

The Shard Lights shine across London with twelve unique displays created by the community. Reindeer animations, rainbow flashes, and vibrant patterns sparkle from dusk until one in the morning, capturing Christmas at The Shard.

Christmas Party Venue London

  • Dates: Available throughout the festive season
  • Location: Aqua Shard, Level 31
  • Included with admission: Not available with us; book via official website
  • Age restriction: Suitable for adults and corporate groups

Host a magical Christmas party at The Shard with stunning city views. Enjoy contemporary British food in private or semi-private spaces. Flexible layouts, bespoke menus, and expert planners make every celebration memorable.

Enchanted Wonders at TĪNG Restaurant

  • Dates: 18 November 2025 - 6 January 2026
  • Location: TĪNG Restaurant, Level 35
  • Included with admission: Not available with us; book via official website
  • Age restriction: Suitable for all ages

Sip festive tea, taste seasonal lunches, and enjoy elegant dinners at The Shard. Every bite is paired with breathtaking views of London’s skyline, making winter flavors feel magical and unforgettable.

Christmas eve dinner

  • Dates: 24 December 2025
  • Location: TĪNG Restaurant, Level 35
  • Included with admission: Not available with us; book via official website
  • Age restriction: Suitable for all ages

Enjoy a refined Christmas Eve sharing menu featuring dishes such as game terrine, Char Siu pork belly, baked cod, and festive desserts. A flute of Champagne welcomes you as the city sparkles below.

Christmas day dining

  • Dates: 25 December 2025
  • Location: TĪNG Restaurant, Level 35
  • Included with admission: Not available with us; book via official website
  • Age restriction: Suitable for all ages

Spend Christmas Day overlooking London’s skyline with a gourmet sharing menu. Highlights include Norfolk turkey, glazed pork belly, and seasonal desserts, creating a perfect festive celebration above the city.

Visitor information

  • Lighting display: Begins at end of civil dusk
  • Switch-on date: 25 November 2025
  • Last hourly display: 1am
  • Private dining and event timings: Vary by venue; check official website

Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom

​Find on Maps

  • By tube: Jubilee or Northern lines

Nearest stations: London Bridge, Bank, Moorgate, or Canary Wharf

  • By bus: Routes 43, 48, 141, 149, 521

Nearest stop: London Bridge station

  • By train: National Rail or Docklands Light Railway

Nearest station: London Bridge

  • By river bus: Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

Nearest pier: London Bridge City Pier

By car: Nearby parking includes NCP London Bridge, Tower Bridge Parking, and Q-Park Tower Bridge

  • Fast-track elevators: Zoom up The Shard in just 60 seconds with high-speed lifts and get ready for jaw-dropping skyline views almost instantly.
  • Knowledgeable team: Curious about the landmarks below? The Shard’s friendly staff are happy to share facts, stories, and tips to make your visit even more memorable.
  • Restrooms nearby: Need a quick break? Clean and conveniently located restrooms on the viewing levels mean you don’t have to miss a single moment.
  • First-aid support: Trained first-aid staff are on hand for any minor incidents. Immediate treatment is available, with further care if necessary in nearby offices.
  • Extra seating: Visitors can request foldable chairs on the viewing platforms, making it easier to relax and take in the spectacular cityscape in comfort.
  • Wheelchair hire: Make your visit easier by borrowing a wheelchair, ensuring smooth movement around The Shard.
  • Accessible lifts: Wheelchair-friendly lifts operate seamlessly from street level all the way to the top viewing platforms.
  • Accessible toilets: Wheelchair-accessible washrooms are available on Level 1 and Level 68, famously known as the "loo with a view."
  • Free companion ticket: Carers receive a complimentary ticket when presenting valid proof of disability, making visits easier for everyone.
  • Barrier-free access: The Shard offers full wheelchair access across lifts, doors, and floors, including indoor and outdoor viewing areas on Levels 69 and 72.
  • Fast-track entry: Disabled visitors and their carers can skip the main queue with priority entry to The Shard.
  • Guide dogs welcome: Only guide and hearing dogs are allowed inside The View from The Shard to support visitors’ needs.
  • Belongings: Keep your personal items secure at all times and avoid leaving anything in walkways or viewing areas.
  • Courtesy: Be mindful of fellow visitors, giving space and consideration in lifts, viewing platforms, and crowded areas.
  • Designated areas: Remain within marked zones during dining, events, and activities to ensure safety and smooth visitor flow.
  • No smoking: Smoking and vaping are only allowed in designated outdoor areas to maintain comfort for all guests.
  • Food rules: Outside food or drinks are not permitted inside restaurants or dining areas to keep spaces clean.

The Shard offers exceptional festive dining options during the season. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Aqua Shard: Enjoy contemporary British cuisine with sweeping views from level 31, perfect for festive lunches or elegant Christmas parties.
  • TĪNG Restaurant: Seasonal menus, indulgent afternoon tea, and refined Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining with breathtaking skyline views.
  • Hutong: Northern Chinese cuisine in a dramatic setting overlooking London, ideal for intimate festive dinners or large-scale celebrations when combined with Aqua Shard.

Frequently asked questions about Christmas at The Shard

Can I book Christmas dining separately?

Yes, festive dining at TĪNG, Aqua Shard, and Hutong must be booked directly through their official websites.

Are Christmas events suitable for children?

Most dining experiences welcome families, though some evening events are more suited to adults.

Are the Shard Lights included in tickets?

Yes, Shard Lights viewing can be booked with us. Dining and private events must be reserved separately.

Is parking available?

Local paid parking is available near London Bridge Station.

What should I bring for festive dining?

Smart clothing, booking confirmation, and a camera for skyline photos.

When do the Shard Lights turn on?

They switch on on 25 November and begin each day at the end of civil dusk.