Spot the best hotels near The Gherkin

30 St Mary Axe, more commonly known as The Gherkin, is one of the most recognisable shapes on the London skyline and a distinctive example of modern architecture. its curved glass design provides a sharp contrast to the historic stone buildings of the City, making it a great spot for a few photos. Standing 591 feet tall, this tower is a clever piece of engineering that uses its unique frame to stay energy efficient while looking very sleek. It is a great example of how the capital blends the old with the new, and seeing it up close allows you to appreciate the scale of its 7,429 glass panes.

London's financial district is home to some of the most recognisable shapes in the city's skyline, offering a unique blend of modern engineering and historical surroundings. While much of the area is dedicated to business, you will find plenty of space to admire the glass structures from the ground or explore the nearby ancient streets.

Architecture and design highlights

This curved glass tower, officially known as 30 St Mary Axe, stands 591 feet tall and is famous for its distinctive cigar-like shape. Built on the site of the former Baltic Exchange, the structure uses a diagonal grid of steel to support itself, which means it does not need any internal pillars to stay upright. You will notice the spiralling dark bands on the exterior; these are part of a clever natural ventilation system that helps the building use less energy.

At the very top, there is a glass dome that provides a full 360-degree view of the capital. Although it is primarily a private office building, the glass panels are designed to allow plenty of light into the 40 floors of workspace. The plaza at the base is a great spot to stand and look up to see how the 24,000 square metres of glass skin reflects the surrounding clouds and sky.

Visiting and logistics

Since it is an active workplace, the interior is usually closed to the general public, but it often opens its doors during the Open House London event held every September. During this time, you can book a tour to see the upper levels and the bar at the summit. If you are visiting on a normal day, the best way to enjoy it is by walking around the base or booking a table at the restaurant located on the top floors.

The building is located just a 5-minute walk from Aldgate Station and about 10 minutes on foot from Liverpool Street Station. Security is tight, so if you have a reservation for the restaurant or a scheduled tour, you should arrive at least 15 minutes early to clear the scanners. Always check the official website for current opening times and special event dates, as access can change depending on private functions.

History and background

The site has a long history, previously housing the Baltic Exchange which was damaged in the early 1990s. After the ruins were cleared, the current tower was designed by the firm Foster + Partners and completed in 2003. It was a massive change for the city skyline and quickly earned the RIBA Stirling Prize for its innovative design.

While it looks entirely modern, the name of the street, St Mary Axe, dates back to a medieval church that once stood nearby. Today, the tower is considered a pioneer of the "green" skyscraper movement because its shape and glass walls were designed to reduce the need for artificial cooling and heating. It remains one of the most photographed pieces of architecture in the country.

Finding your way around The Gherkin is easy, as it stands in a very well-connected part of the city. plenty of options to stay within a short distance, making it simple to reach the landmark whenever you like.

Where to stay near the Gherkin

The City of London is the most convenient area to base yourself if you want to be steps away from the building. This district is home to many high-end boutique hotels and sleek suites that suit travellers looking for a polished experience. If you prefer a more creative atmosphere, Shoreditch is less than 1 mile away and offers trendy spots that are great for younger visitors or those on a budget. For families, staying near Tower Hill provides a bit more space and is only a 15-minute walk from the skyscraper. These areas are filled with a mix of old cobbled streets and very modern architecture, giving you a real feel for the different sides of the capital.

Getting to the landmark

You can get here quickly from Liverpool Street Station, which is a major hub about 0.3 miles from the entrance. Aldgate Station and Bank Station are also within a 10-minute walk, providing easy links to the Tube and the Elizabeth Line. Most of these stations offer step-free access and lifts, so the journey straightforward even if you are carrying bags.

Find the best hotels near The Gherkin with eDreams. By browsing our curated selection, you can identify the most convenient stays and access exclusive pricing. Start your London adventure by choosing a room that meets all your travel requirements.