When King Writes

What’s in here?
1. Planning your visit
2. Arrival and entry
3. The viewing experience
4. Additional tips

I was on the hunt for something fresh to do in London—places that weren’t already marked off my checklist. And just in time, this brand-new, record-breaking attraction opened in September 2023: Horizon 22.

Perched on the 58th floor of 22 Bishopsgate, Horizon 22 claims the title of London’s highest free public viewing platform. 

If you’re planning a visit, here’s what to expect and some tips to make it all go smoothly.

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Planning Your Visit

Tickets

Booking is a breeze. I grabbed my ticket online at horizon22.co.uk—it’s free and quick, and you get your e-ticket via email. 

A word of advice: book ahead because tickets are limited.

Operating Hours

Horizon 22 opens at different times depending on the day, and the last admission is about 30 minutes before closing. I went at 2 p.m. and stayed for almost an hour. 

While there’s technically a time limit, no one rushed us out. We were free to enjoy the views at our own pace, but I imagine it might be stricter during peak times like summer or school holidays.

Location and Accessibility

Horizon 22 is at 22 Bishopsgate, near major office buildings and financial institutions. 

It’s super accessible: nearby Tube stations include Bank, Liverpool Street, Moorgate, and Monument, and there are plenty of bus routes (21, 25, 26, 344, 388, 43, 47) to get you there. 

Honestly, I just used Google Maps to sort it all out beforehand. Easy peasy. Plus, once you see the tallest building in the area, you can’t possibly miss it:

Arrival and Entry

Security and Check-In

I arrived with just a small purse, and security was quick and easy—no lines, no hassle. I breezed right in after presenting my QR code, which was a nice surprise given the typical London attraction queues.

Elevator Experience

The elevator was efficient but unexciting. It doesn’t have any windows, just a screen that tells you how fast you’re climbing. 

It zips you up to the 58th floor in about 41 seconds. You might feel a little ear-popping, but a few gulps take care of that.

The Viewing Experience

Panoramic Views

Once you’re up there, you get a stunning bird’s-eye view of London. The Shard, Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral—all the icons look like miniatures. 

If you’re lucky, you might catch the London Bridge opening up for passing ships. From here, even The Shard (the tallest building in the U.K.) feels a bit less imposing.

Photography Tips

I visited at 2 PM and it wasn’t too crowded, so I got some great shots without other people in the frame. 

If you’re into time-lapses,  press your camera against the glass to minimize any window glare.

Amenities

The on-site café is, to put it politely, minimalistic. They have pastries, sandwiches, and drinks, but don’t expect anything fancy. Just simple tables and a small bar with a view. 

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I set up my phone on a small DJI Osmo to capture a time-lapse while enjoying a warm cuppa. I did appreciate though that I got to stay as long as I wanted. I didn’t feel rushed.

Additional Tips

Best Times to Visit

If you prefer some solitude, go in the afternoon like I did, a couple of hours before sunset. It’s quieter, and you get the golden-hour light toward the end. 

If you want to stay for sunset, make sure to claim a spot by the window early because that’s when people start to gather.

Weather Considerations

Keep an eye on the weather forecast. Horizon 22 sits high enough that cloud cover can really impact the view. 

Personally, I found the sight of The Shard’s tip shrouded in mist quite enchanting, but if you want crystal-clear views, aim for a sunny day.

Alternative Viewpoints

I’ve also been to The Sky Garden and The Shard. Sky Garden is another great free option, while The Shard comes with a price tag. 

I’ll be writing more about these spots soon—stay tuned if you’re curious about all the best places to see London from above.

Final Thoughts

Horizon 22 is worth a visit while admission is still free. Just keep your expectations in check—this experience is really all about the views. There’s no fancy coffee, no artwork, no added frills. 

Once you’ve taken in the panorama and snapped your shots, that’s it. But if you have a gap in your London itinerary, this is a perfect, easy addition for something a little different.