Have you been wanting to visit the Sky Garden in London? This spectacular free viewing platform offers some of the best panoramic views over the city from up high. But with limited capacity, you’ll need to book Sky Garden tickets in advance online before you can visit.
So when exactly are Sky Garden tickets released and available to book? How far in advance can you reserve a time slot? This guide will explain everything you need to know about the Sky Garden ticket release schedule and booking process.
When Are Sky Garden Tickets Released?
Sky Garden tickets are released every Monday Morning, except on bank holidays.
On each Monday Morning, a new batch of tickets is made available to book for the next 3 weeks (Monday-Sunday).
So for example:
- On Monday, March 6th, tickets will be released for March 13th through April 2nd (3 weeks from that date)
- If it’s a bank holiday on Monday, then tickets will be released on Tuesday morning instead
- No tickets are released on weekends
This means you can book your Sky Garden visit up to 3 weeks in advance. But you generally want to reserve tickets as early as possible, since they can book out completely – especially on weekends.
As soon as tickets are released each Monday Morning, people start reserving the available time slots. So log on right at Morning to have your best chance of getting your preferred date/time.
How to Book Tickets to the Sky Garden
Booking your Sky Garden tickets only takes a few minutes online. Just follow these simple steps:
- Go to the Sky Garden website.
- Click “Plan Your Visit” and then select “Book Now”.
- On the booking page, click your preferred date on the calendar.
- Choose the time slot you want from the available options. Each ticket booking is valid for a 1 hour time slot.
- Enter your name, email address and ticket quantity.
- Read and accept the terms & conditions.
- Complete the booking! You’ll receive a confirmation email with your e-ticket.
Double check that you’ve entered the correct date, time and email address before submitting your booking.
If your preferred time slot is already taken, try choosing a different day or time. Mid-week mornings and afternoons tend to be less crowded.
Unfortunately the Sky Garden does not accept phone or walk-in bookings. The only way to guarantee entry is to pre-book online.
However, a limited number of walk-in tickets are sometimes released each day if there is availability left. You can ask at the front desk, but entry is not guaranteed. Early morning and late afternoon have the best walk-in chances.
Sky Garden Opening Hours
It’s important to know the Sky Garden’s opening times when choosing your ticket slot.
The Sky Garden’s viewing platforms and gardens are open:
- Monday – Friday: 10am to 6pm
- Weekends and Bank Holidays: 11am to 9pm
The Darwin Brasserie, Fenchurch Restaurant and bars have slightly different hours:
- Darwin Brasserie: is open Sunday to Thursday from 8:30 am to 10 pm. Please note that orders must be placed by 10:30 pm on those days. On Fridays, the hours are 8:30 am to 10:30 pm and orders must be placed by 11 pm. On Saturdays, the hours are also 8:30 am to 10:30 pm, with orders to be placed by the 11 pm deadline…
- Fenchurch Restaurant: Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays.
- Sky Pod and City Garden Bars: Open daily at 7 am.
Last entry to the Sky Garden is 11pm, except Fridays and Saturdays when it’s extended to midnight.
Keep the opening times in mind when booking your ticket. For example, don’t book a Monday 8am slot since the garden doesn’t open until 10am on weekdays.
Planning Your Visit to the Sky Garden
Once you’ve booked your Sky Garden tickets, here are some tips to make the most of your 1 hour visit:
Arrive on Time
Aim to arrive at the Sky Garden at least 15 minutes before your ticket time. This gives you time to get through security and take the lift up to Level 35.
If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, you may be denied entry.
Valid Photo ID Required
Bring a valid form of photo ID that matches the name on your ticket booking. A passport, driving licence or proof of age card will be accepted.
Children under 16 do not need ID, but must be accompanied by an adult.
Security Screening
Bags and visitors are subject to airport-style screening at the entrance.
Prohibited items include glass, liquids over 100ml and large bags bigger than 8x17x19 inches.
Leave extra time to get through security – long queues can form during peak hours.
Time Limit
Remember tickets are only valid for a 1 hour time slot from your entry time.
Make sure to leave before your hour is up, otherwise you may be charged for overstaying.
Group Size
No more than 6 people can enter together per booking. Children are included in this limit.
Making the Most of Your Sky Garden Visit
Here are some tips to make the most of your 1 hour Sky Garden experience:
- Visit on a clear day for visibility up to 25 miles. Foggy or overcast days reduce visibility.
- Avoid peak hours between noon and mid-afternoon when crowds are largest. Go early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Take lots of photos! The best backdrop is towards St Paul’s Cathedral and the river.
- Stop for a coffee or cocktail at the Darwin Brasserie or Sky Pod Bar. You can convert your Sky Garden ticket into a table booking.
- Don’t miss the outdoor observation deck wrapping around the building.
- Download the app for extra info on landmarks and an augmented reality view from your phone.
- Gaze down on the streets through the angled glass floor on Level 36th.
With sweeping 360 degree views, free entry and no time limit on how long you can stay and admire the panoramas, the Sky Garden is one of London’s best attractions. By booking your tickets as soon as they are released, you’ll have the best chance of securing a time slot that suits your schedule.
Alternative Free Viewing Spots in London
If the Sky Garden is fully booked on your desired date, don’t worry! Here are some other excellent free observation decks and high vantage points around London to consider:
- The Shard Viewing Gallery – Book free tickets in advance for stunning panoramas from 800ft up Europe’s tallest building.
- Parliament Hill – This North London park offers unmatched skyline views including The Shard and Canary Wharf.
- Primrose Hill – Another iconic park viewpoint overlooking London Zoo and the West End. Less crowded than Parliament Hill.
- The Garden at 120 – An urban garden space right across from the Sky Garden with more limited, but still decent views.
- One New Change Roof Terrace – Get a bird’s eye view of St. Paul’s Cathedral from this shopping centre rooftop.
- Greenwich Park – Climb the steep hill for sweeping views of Greenwich, Canary Wharf and the O2.
- Waterloo Bridge – Take in the London Eye, Big Ben and the City skyscrapers along this pedestrian river crossing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Sky Garden tickets:
How much do Sky Garden tickets cost?
Tickets to access the Sky Garden viewing platforms are free. You just pay for any food, drinks or souvenirs.
Are children allowed?
Yes, children under 16 can visit but must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Can I reschedule my ticket?
Unfortunately booked time slots cannot be changed or refunded. But you can easily cancel and rebook a new time.
What if I’m late for my ticket time?
You should arrive at least 15 minutes before your ticket time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you may be denied entry without a refund.
How long can I stay?
Each ticket is valid for a 1 hour time slot. You will need to leave by the end of your reserved hour.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No print-outs are required. Just show your digital ticket on your phone or device when you arrive.
What is the dress code?
There is no formal dress code, but you are advised to avoid sportswear like sweatpants if visiting the restaurants.
Summary
We hope this guide has helped explain when and how you can get your free Sky Garden tickets!
To recap, tickets are released every Monday Morning for the next 3 weeks, excluding bank holidays. Be sure to log in right Morning to secure your preferred date and time slot.
With panoramic views over landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and The Shard, the Sky Garden is one of London’s top attractions. Follow the tips above to make the most of your 1-hour visit during the garden’s opening hours.
Have you visited the Sky Garden before? Let us know your experience in the comments!
