Higher Than the Rest: Soaring Views and Free Thrills at Horizon 22

London’s skyline just got a serious upgrade, and the best part is the view from the top is entirely free. Horizon 22, located on the 58th floor of the imposing 22 Bishopsgate, is the highest free viewing platform in the UK, offering an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of the capital. Forget craning your neck in the street; this is the definitive way to see the city. The Ascent: A Vertical Thrill The experience begins with the ultra-fast elevator ride. In what feels like mere seconds, you are whisked up 58 floors, the pressure change confirming just how high you're climbing. Once the doors open, you step out into a light-filled space where the city is literally laid out beneath you like a vast, architectural map. The View: A 360-Degree Masterpiece The floor-to-ceiling windows provide unobstructed views in every direction. From this vantage point, the famous landmarks feel close enough to touch. To the east, the Thames snakes toward Canary Wharf. To the south, you'll look down on rivals like the Walkie Talkie and the Gherkin, and gaze directly across at The Shard, feeling like a peer, not a tourist. The view west beautifully frames historic sites like St Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London, demonstrating London’s remarkable blend of old and new. It is truly mesmerizing to watch the tiny black cabs and red buses navigating the grid below. Practicalities and Atmosphere While the focus is purely on the view (there is no café or bar, keeping the experience simple and swift), the atmosphere is relaxed and airy. Booking your visit online in advance is essential, as slots fill up quickly—and understandably so, given the price (free!). The staff are efficient, ensuring a smooth transition from ground level to the clouds. Horizon 22 isn't just another viewing deck; it's a generous, elevated perspective on one of the world's greatest cities. Whether you're a local gaining a new appreciation for your home or a tourist trying to orient yourself, this is an absolutely essential stop. Horizon 22 📍22 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AJ