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30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
🏛️LandmarkOpen now · Closes 12:00 AM$$ · Mid-range

30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)

4.6 ·

Discover the Gherkin, London's unmistakable cucumber-shaped glass tower rising above the City's financial district. Admire Norman Foster's lattice-clad design from street level, or, with a booked event, take in skyline views from inside this modern landmark.

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Reasons to go

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

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.

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Address

30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8BF, UK · Bishopsgate
Website
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Hours

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Booking

Booking required

Duration

45 min

Intensity

Easy pace

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Good to know

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

"The Gherkin" is the well-known nickname for the iconic 180-meter (591-foot) skyscraper located at 30 Saint Mary Axe in the City of London's financial district. Designed by archistar Norman Foster of the famous Foster & Partners and completed in 2004, it is famous for its energy-efficient aerodynamic shape and…

S

Stefano Prina

2/5

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