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Pro tip: If you are unable to secure a free garden ticket but still wish to visit the Sky Garden, consider booking a table at one of the Sky Garden’s restaurants or bars which automatically grants access.
Soar Above the City in London’s Lush Rooftop Oasis with Panoramic Skyline Views
Updated November 2025
Nestled at the top of the iconic “Walkie Talkie” building at 20 Fenchurch Street, the Sky Garden offers one of London’s most spectacular 360° vistas—floor-to-ceiling glass, a lush indoor garden, a terrace above the Thames and a chance to look out over landmarks like Tower Bridge, The Shard and St Paul’s. What makes it stand out is that unlike many paid observation decks, entry is free, provided you book in advance.
At a Glance
How Early to Book:
Exactly when tickets are released on the Monday 3 weeks before (see below).
Tickets Released:
Every Monday morning (excluding bank holidays) three weeks in advance for the full week. Reservations for bars and restaurants booked separately.
Best Times to Visit:
Early mornings are usually the quietest, while sunsets in the evening will be most stunning at the cost of greater crowds.
Ticket price:
Free of charge for garden entry.
Where to Book:
Your first move should be to reserve a timed-entry ticket online through the official Sky Garden website. These tickets are released up to three weeks in advance and often sell out within hours for peak times like sunset or weekends. Once inside, you’ll find that your ticket gives you access to a dramatic indoor garden environment (on level 35) and an outdoor terrace (on level 36) where you can linger with a drink, take photos, and soak in the city from above. The bars and restaurants—like the full-service Darwin Brasserie and the more premium Fenchurch Restaurant—offer alternatives for dining with a view, and booking a table there often includes access even when general tickets are sold out.
Timing your visit wisely elevates the experience. Early morning slots (around 9 a.m. on weekdays) are generally quieter and allow clearer views, while late afternoon or early evening (especially around golden hour) can be stunning but also more crowded. The weekend evenings are among the most competitive for bookings. On arrival, plan to bring a photo ID (the venue applies a “Challenge 25” policy for young-looking adults), travel light (bags may be scanned), and join the queue promptly at your time slot; arriving later than 15 minutes past your slot may mean loss of admission.
Accessibility is strong: there are lifts to the viewing levels, step-free access for much of the public area, and staff trained to assist. Families and groups should note that although the entry ticket is free, the indoor space can fill up in peak periods, so booking remains the safest route.
A few insider tips: If you can’t secure a free slot, consider booking a table at one of the Sky Garden’s restaurants which automatically grants access—often easier to obtain for popular times. Check for last-minute cancellations on the booking site, especially late afternoon the day before. And if the weather forecast looks cloudy, aim for an earlier slot when you’ll get clearer light.
In short: with a free timed booking, choice of the time of day (early-morning or golden-hour are best), travel light, and optional dining-upgrade you’ll experience London’s skyline from an elevated, green oasis—without paying big bucks for premium vantage points. Whether you’re there for photos, a drink with a view, or a calm half-hour above the city, Sky Garden rewards planning with magic.
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