LondonGB5-Star Hotel

Shangri-La The Shard, London: Pros, Cons & Is It Worth It? (2026)

By Jessica Lane, Travel Editor·Updated Mar 2026

10/10

Exceptional

★★★★★

2,461 guest reviews
31 St Thomas Street, London

Overview

Shangri-La The Shard, London, occupies the upper echelons of one of the city's most iconic skyscrapers. With its luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the capital, this five-star hotel attracts discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining and enjoy cocktails at the highest bar in London, making it a prime choice for those who appreciate both luxury and breathtaking scenery.

Pros & Cons

What works

The views from the hotel are nothing short of breathtaking. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase London's skyline, making every moment spent in your room feel like an unforgettable experience.
The staff are genuinely welcoming and attentive. From the moment you arrive, they make an effort to remember your name and preferences, creating a personalized experience that feels special.
The amenities, especially the infinity pool on the 52nd floor, are a highlight. Swimming while overlooking the city is a unique experience that adds a luxurious touch to your stay.
The decor throughout the hotel is stylish and contemporary. It feels like a high-end urban retreat, which enhances the overall atmosphere and makes for great photo opportunities.
The breakfast selection is vast, featuring a mix of British and Asian dishes. The chance to enjoy a delicious meal with stunning views sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
The rooms are equipped with thoughtful details like binoculars for skyline viewing. Little touches like this make the stay feel more immersive and enjoyable.
The location is convenient for exploring London. You're steps away from iconic attractions, allowing you to easily immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.

What doesn't

Housekeeping can be inconsistent. Some guests reported issues like incomplete cleaning or missing amenities, which detracts from the luxury experience one expects.
The breakfast service has room for improvement. Guests noted that the staff could have been more attentive, which can be disappointing, especially at a hotel of this caliber.
Privacy can be a concern with certain room layouts. Some guests found that views from the tub also offered views into neighboring rooms, which undermines the relaxation factor.
Unexpected charges, like a cleaning service fee, can feel sneaky. Being informed about these costs upfront would help manage expectations and enhance guest satisfaction.
The variability in staff service can be unsettling. While many guests experienced top-notch service, others encountered staff members who seemed less engaged, affecting the overall experience.

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Photos

Location

Shangri-La The Shard sits in Southwark, a vibrant area that balances modernity with history. Just steps from London Bridge, guests find themselves surrounded by a mix of bustling food markets, trendy bars, and cultural institutions. A short stroll leads to Borough Market, renowned for its gourmet offerings and lively atmosphere. The hotel also provides easy access to the historic Tower of London and the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, both within a reasonable walking distance. For those who prefer the river, a walk along the Thames offers picturesque views of the city’s skyline and landmarks. The location suits both business travelers and tourists alike. With London Bridge Tube station nearby, navigating the city is simple. Whether guests are heading to the financial district or exploring attractions like the Tate Modern or Shakespeare’s Globe, the convenience of public transport is a significant advantage. The area’s rich blend of contemporary and classic elements captures the essence of London, making it an appealing base for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic life.

Guest Reviews

Greg

couple · GB · Feb 2026

10Exceptional

“A great hotel, loved every minute of the stay”

✓Great decor

✗Staff were very professional and attentive

A_Kaur_55555

Family · LONDON, ENGLAND · Feb 2026

10Exceptional

“A truly magical stay - thank you, Shangri La London”

✓This was our first time at the Shangri-La The Shard, chosen after carefully researching luxury London hotels for a once in a lifetime celebration, our mum’s 70th. We wanted to make a special family memory, especially as mum has been living with a long-term health condition. To say it exceeded our expectations is an understatement. From the moment we arrived, Jessica welcomed us with such warmth and care, making Mum feel truly special. She looked after us throughout our stay and nothing was too much trouble; she even arranged for a surprise birthday cake for mum. In our room, we soaked up the breath-taking skyline views, and we made the most of the relaxing pool and sauna, where Angelica continued the impeccable service with thought and care. Another highlight was breakfast. We had a window table with a wonderful view, and Viola could not have been more attentive, checking often to ensure mum was comfortable. She took our drinks order, and when we returned to our table with fruit, a surprise birthday card was waiting for Mum. It was one of many thoughtful touches that made our stay unforgettable. We enjoyed the room, the facilities, and the views and genuinely could not share a way to improve our stay. Overall, it was the team’s kindness and outstanding attention to detail which made all the difference. A big thank you, Jessica, Viola and Angelica, for making our family celebration unforgettable. We’re already saving for our next visit!

Dobson

family_with_children · GB · Jan 2026

10Exceptional

“Amazing hotel!”

✓From the minute we arrived, we were very impressed with our welcome when checking in & the service we got from then onwards was excellent. The view from our room was spectacular. Dinner and breakfast at Ting were lovely and again the staff were lovely. We were there celebrating my husband's 70th birthday and when we got to our room, there was a small birthday cake waiting for him which was unexpected and a lovely surprise!

✗Nothing!

bobbyjJ6080ED

Couples · Jan 2026

10Exceptional

“The best staff.”

✓I want to say a massive thanks to the most helpful member of staff I have ever spoken too! Giulia Mastracchio Giulia helped book and arrange my upcoming stay in April, I had many specific questions and requests which she patiently and kindly helped and guided me through them. She has already set our stay off at a 10/10 before we have even arrived. Thanks to Giulia!

690carrag

Couples · Jan 2026

10Exceptional

“A phenomenal experience!”

✓Wow, wow, wow! It’s hard to put into words just how amazing our experience at the Shangri-La was earlier this month! From arrival, the receptionist was helpful, knowledgeable and informative. Once we entered our room, we were both speechless at just how stunning the room and views were, getting even better as it gets darker. The shutters automatically opening as you put the room card in is very exciting! I had pre ordered a cake for my husband’s birthday, which arrived with an additional extra “happy birthday” cake which was a lovely touch. Having a bath while looking out over the City was surreal. Bubble bath would have been nice instead of/as well as the bath salts. The Jo Loves toiletries were beautiful. The heated toilet seat was also very nice! The room amenities were brilliant, including bottled water and binoculars with viewing map. We both slept amazing even after a few cocktails, and any tiredness or mild hangover melted away once you opened your eyes and see that morning view - just perfect! Would highly recommend booking the sky pool, we opted for 7am and it was absolutely picturesque! We had the pool and sauna to ourselves too which we loved. The check out process was easy, I never usually say this but I was sad to leave and go home, I wish we could have stayed longer. Not only was the service amazing during, but the after care and support has been second to none. I left my iPad in the room by mistake, the housekeeping team were brilliant and kept it safe while I arranged collection as we do not live nearby. A very big thank you to Bruna who very kindly dropped the iPad off at a nearby DPD collection point after DPD failed to collect when scheduled. Another shout out for the lost property who packaged my iPad so well and with so much care, it arrived back to me today in one piece so I am extremely grateful. To summarise, if you’re considering a stay at Shangri-La London, book it! I can’t recommend it enough. So much so, we are now making this an annual treat!

Guests consistently praise the exceptional service at Shangri-La The Shard, highlighting the staff's warmth, attentiveness, and thoughtful gestures that enhance their stays. Many reviews mention the breathtaking views and luxurious room amenities, contributing to an overall memorable experience. However, a few guests expressed minor issues, such as a desire for additional bath options and some comments about the professionalism of the staff feeling overly formal rather than personal.

Who Should Stay Here?

Couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone wanting to celebrate a special occasion will find immense value at Shangri-La The Shard. The stunning views and attentive staff create an intimate atmosphere that elevates any experience. Additionally, travelers who appreciate luxury amenities like the infinity pool will enjoy the unique opportunity to swim overlooking one of the world's most iconic skylines. On the other hand, budget-conscious travelers or those who prioritize reliable service might want to look elsewhere. Inconsistent housekeeping and breakfast service can detract from the luxury experience, and unexpected charges can lead to frustrations. If you expect seamless service and value for your money, this hotel may not meet your needs.

Shangri-La The Shard, London

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The Verdict

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Our Take

Shangri-La The Shard offers an unforgettable experience with stunning views and attentive staff. The infinity pool is a standout feature that adds a touch of luxury. However, inconsistent housekeeping and breakfast service can detract from the overall stay. If you can overlook these minor inconveniences, this hotel is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience London from a unique vantage point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time can I check in and check out?

Check-in is from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM.

Is WiFi available at Shangri-La The Shard?

Yes, WiFi is available in all areas and is free of charge.

Are pets allowed at the hotel?

Pets are allowed on request, though charges may apply.

What parking options are available?

Public parking is available on site for £70 per day, but reservation is not possible.

Can children stay at the hotel?

Children of any age are allowed. Children up to 3 years old stay for free with an available cot, while those up to 11 years old stay for free using an existing bed.

Are there fitness facilities at the hotel?

Yes, there are fitness facilities available for a surcharge.

Is there a restaurant on-site?

Yes, there is a restaurant available for guests.

What amenities are available for disabled guests?

The hotel offers facilities for disabled guests, ensuring accessibility.