Sky Garden is a public indoor garden on the upper floors of 20 Fenchurch Street, the City skyscraper known as the Walkie-Talkie. Its planted paths, observation decks and open-air terrace sit behind floor-to-ceiling glass, with views across London that take in Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard. Entry to the garden is free, but you need to book a timed visit. You can also stop for a coffee, a cocktail or a meal at one of the bars and restaurants inside.
A garden above the City
Sky Garden occupies the upper floors of 20 Fenchurch Street, the skyscraper commonly called the Walkie-Talkie for its distinctive shape. The public space spans three floors, with landscaped planting, places to sit and areas set aside for viewing the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the skyline into view as you move through the garden.
The planting draws on Mediterranean and South African species, including ferns, fig trees, French lavender, bird of paradise plants and African lilies. The gardens were designed by Gillespies, with drought-resistant plants selected for the space. Paths rise through the interior, so the views and planting change as you move between levels.
What you can see from above
The glass walls give you a broad view across the capital. Look for Tower Bridge and the Thames, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral, as well as the City’s changing mix of older landmarks and modern towers. The open-air terrace provides another place to take in the skyline; the garden also has indoor observation areas.
For photographs, the windows and terrace offer different angles across the city. A sunset visit brings changing light over the buildings, but those time slots are popular, so plan ahead if that is your priority.
Food and drink in the garden
Sky Garden has bars and restaurants alongside the public garden. Sky Pod Bar is a place to stop for drinks or light bites, while Darwin Brasserie serves breakfast and all-day meals. Its menu has included truffle eggs royale and buttermilk pancakes at breakfast, with dishes such as chestnut pâté, ox cheek bourguignon and aged Scottish ribeye in the evening.
Fenchurch Restaurant is another dining option, with a British menu influenced by Caribbean flavours. A restaurant booking can also be a way to visit without reserving a separate garden time slot. Check the venue’s current arrangements before you go, since dining and garden access are handled differently from a standard free visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Sky Garden free to visit?
Entry to the public garden is free, but you need to book a timed ticket.
Do you need to book Sky Garden in advance?
Yes. Tickets are limited, and sunset and busy-period slots can be in high demand, so book ahead.
How long should you allow for Sky Garden?
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the garden and viewing areas.
Can you eat or drink at Sky Garden?
Yes. The upper floors have bars and restaurants, including Sky Pod Bar, Darwin Brasserie and Fenchurch Restaurant.
