30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)

★ 4.6 (5,973)$$ · Mid-range

Completed in 2004 and officially named 30 St Mary Axe, the tower earned its 'Gherkin' nickname from its distinctive tapered, lattice-clad shape, quickly becoming one of the City of London's most recognisable modern buildings alongside older neighbours like the Tower of London. Access is generally limited to office tenants and occasional booked events, which explains the required booking and the reviewer note about visiting a private floor for a specific occasion rather than general public entry. With a 4.6 rating, it's most appreciated from street level as an architectural landmark or, for the lucky few with access, from a private event with skyline views.

✨ Reasons to go

1Designed by Norman Foster and completed in 2004, standing 180 metres (591 feet) tall.
2Its tapered lattice form, which inspired the 'Gherkin' nickname, was built on the site of the former Baltic Exchange, damaged in a 1992 IRA bombing.
3The tower's diagrid shell allows it to spiral open panels for natural ventilation, an unusual feature for a skyscraper of its era.

💡 Good to know

1Check whether any public events or open days are currently running, since general public access to the interior is limited
2view it from Leadenhall Market or St Mary Axe street level for the best exterior photos
3pair a walk past it with nearby Lloyd's building and Leadenhall Market for a City architecture loop.

⏱️ Typical visit

45 min

🚶 Walking intensity

Easy pace

📍

Address

30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8BF, UKGoogle Apple

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Booking

Booking required

What people say

"visited 30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin) for HP Customer Care on the 32nd floor, and it was a truly impressive experience. The building itself is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, with a unique architectural design that looks beautiful from outside and even more professional from inside. The entry process was well organized, the security and staff were polite, and the overall environment felt very clean, premium, and business-friendly. Reaching the 32nd floor was a special experience, and the view from there was absolutely amazing. It gives a wonderful feel of London’s skyline and makes the visit memorable. My visit to HP Customer Care was smooth and comfortable. The place reflects professionalism, quality, and excellent corporate standards. Overall, it was a great experience visiting such a landmark building, and I am happy to give 5 stars. Highly recommended for anyone visiting this location for business or office purposes."

— Rakcha

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