How to get to The Shard I All about the location and transportation options

Towering at 309.6 meters, The Shard is an unmistakable landmark at 32 London Bridge Street. This mega-skyline icon is on the South Bank, next to London Bridge Station, and is nestled in the vibrant Shard Quarter.

The Shard location

Address: 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK

The Shard, located at 32 London Bridge Street, stands tall on the South Bank. Nearby, you’ll find Borough Market, Tate Modern, and the iconic London Bridge—all within easy reach!

Nearest attraction: The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs (0.3 km)

Plan your visit

Getting to The Shard by public transport

Best for: Ones who want to avoid traffic and travel affordably

Travel time: 15-25 minutes from Central London

Closest stop: London Bridge Station

Timings: The London Underground runs from 5am to midnight (Monday through Saturday), with reduced hours on Sundays. Some lines also offer a Night Tube service on Friday and Saturday nights for 24-hour travel.

Catch the Jubilee (grey) or Northern (black) Line to London Bridge Station—just 4–6 minutes from central London! From there, follow the signs, and you’ll be at The Shard in no time.

Best for: Tourists wanting to mingle with local Londoners

Travel time: 10-15 minutes from Central London

Closest stop: London Bridge Station or London Charing Cross

Timings: Trains run from 5am to midnight (Mon-Sat), with reduced hours on Sundays. They run every 2-7 minutes during peak times, and off-peak intervals are around 10-15 minutes.

Take a National Rail service, like Southeastern or Thameslink, to London Bridge Station—only 10–15 minutes from Charing Cross or Waterloo. Trains run every 2–3 minutes. Follow the signs to The Shard!

Best for: Budget travelers

Travel time: 15 minutes from Central London

Closest stop: London Bridge Station

Timings: Buses run from 5am to midnight, with extended hours on Friday and Saturday nights. Main routes run every 10-12 minutes during peak hours and 15-20 minutes off-peak.

Hop on a bus like the 47, 343, 381, or N199 to London Bridge Station—just a quick walk to The Shard. It’s a 14-minute ride from Waterloo, with buses every 15 minutes!

Getting to The Shard by car

Best for: Convenience

Travel time: 20-30 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions

Distance: Around 6.2 km from Charing Cross

To drive from Charing Cross to The Shard, head southwest on the Strand, then turn left onto Victoria Embankment. Turn right onto London Bridge, and The Shard will be on your left, about 3.2 km away. If the traffic conditions are favorable, the whole drive will take no more than 20-30 minutes.

The Shard doesn’t have on-site parking, but several car parks are nearby.

  • JustPark (0.32 km)
  • Your ParkingSpace HQ (0.64 km)
  • NCP London (1.2 km)
  • Car Park Weston Street - London | APCOA (3.2 km)

Walking to The Shard

Best for: Sightseeing

Travel time: 20-30 minutes

Distance: 1.6 km (from Tower of London)

Start your stroll at the Tower of London, then head south towards the iconic Tower Bridge for some fantastic views. Cross the bridge and wander along the Thames Path, passing the HMS Belfast and City Hall. Pop into Borough Market for tasty local treats before reaching The Shard. This scenic 30-minute walk is packed with history, cultural sightings, great vibes, and delicious stops!

Frequently Asked Questions about The Shard location

Absolutely! A stroll along the South Bank of the River Thames offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere.