Western Europe’s highest swimming pool opened today in the Shard — with the chance to dive in nearly 200 metres above sea level.
The 10-metre pool, on the 52nd floor of the tower, is the latest addition to facilities at the Shangri-La Hotel.
On a clear day, users can see as far as Wembley Stadium and admire views of other landmarks — including St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, Tate Modern, the Gherkin and the Houses of Parliament — while swimming in the Skypool at 623ft.
The pool is part of London’s highest bar, Gong, and is normally only open to hotel guests — who pay an average of £450 a room per night — between 6am and 8pm. For a minimum spend of £45, bar guests can book to sit near it from 8.30pm. The Standard was invited to be among the first to test the pool before today’s opening.
Heated to 25C and measuring 10.6 metres long, four metres wide and 1.3 metres deep, it is positioned next to huge glass windows.
The design by Hong Kong architect Andre Fu of AFSO is based on a “dou-gong” — interlocking brackets from Chinese architecture.
Darren Gearing, Shangri-La executive vice-president and hotel general manager, said: “I am delighted the Skypool has opened 52 floors up within our signature bar Gong. The stunning infinity pool, which faces west across the capital’s iconic skyline, adds a unique touch not only to the hotel but to London’s luxury nightlife scene.”
