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Sky Garden vs Horizon 22: London's Best Free Views

Reviewed by TheOneToGo Editorial · Updated June 8, 2026

The verdict

Book Sky Garden for atmosphere and Horizon 22 for altitude.

Two free London viewpoints, two different moods: Sky Garden is social and established, while Horizon 22 is higher, quieter, and still slightly under the radar.

aerial photography of London skyline during daytimePhoto by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash

London's best free views are not casual walk-ins. Both Sky Garden and Horizon 22 require online booking, and both reward planning, but the experience is not the same.

Sky GardenHorizon 22
View Lower, greener, more atmospheric. You get plants, bars, outdoor terraces, and strong views toward the Thames, Tower Bridge, the Shard, and St Paul's. Higher and cleaner as a pure lookout. Level 58 gives a wide 300-degree sweep, but it feels more like an observation floor than a place to linger.
Cost Standard public garden tickets are free, but popular slots go fast. Paid bar, restaurant, and event options can be the easier fallback, so check before you go. Standard viewing gallery tickets are free. Extras such as drinks, audio guide options, or special experiences may cost money, so book the free ticket if price is the point.
Booking Free tickets are usually released up to three weeks ahead. Walk-ins can happen during public hours, but I would not rely on that for a short London trip. Free timed tickets are booked online, with some walk-in availability. It is often the simpler backup when Sky Garden has no good slots left.
Queues and security Expect airport-style security and a line even with a timed ticket, especially at busy times. The garden is popular and can feel crowded around sunset. Also has security, but the visit is more direct: lift up, look around, lift down. It tends to suit people who hate faff.
Time needed Allow 60 to 90 minutes if you want to wander, take photos, use the terrace, or have a drink. It is the better choice if the stop is part of the evening. Allow 30 to 45 minutes unless you are serious about skyline photos. It is better for a tight itinerary.
Best for Pick Sky Garden for atmosphere, plants, a drink, and a more memorable setting. The tradeoff is tougher booking and more crowd friction. Pick Horizon 22 for height, speed, and a sharper city view. The tradeoff is less character once you have taken the photos.
Getting there At 20 Fenchurch Street in the City. Monument, Bank, Tower Hill, and Fenchurch Street are all practical, so it pairs well with Tower of London or the river. At 22 Bishopsgate, also in the City. Bank and Liverpool Street are the obvious stations, so it fits neatly with Spitalfields, Leadenhall Market, or the Square Mile.
The verdict

Pick Sky Garden if

  • Garden setting
  • More social atmosphere
  • Strong river and City views
Sky Garden guide

Pick Horizon 22 if

  • Higher viewpoint
  • Less widely known
  • Clean skyline perspective

FAQs

Yes, both offer free entry with advance online booking. Availability can change, so reserve as early as you can.

Horizon 22 goes higher. Sky Garden sits lower but offers a more distinctive social setting.

Horizon 22 can be easier because it is less famous, but both can fill up. Sky Garden is often bookable around three weeks ahead.

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