What better introduction to London and the New Year than brunch on the 31st floor of the Shard, Western Europe’s highest building? Rather than buying a ticket to the viewing platform, invest it in a fabulous meal accompanied by the best views of London’s skyline at Aqua Shard, a favourite London dining spot.
You won’t be guaranteed a window table but no table is too far from the 180° jaw-dropping view via floor to ceiling windows. Look out over some of London’s most famous landmarks, including St Paul’s, the Walkie Talkie building, the Tower of London and the Gherkin. And whatever you do, don’t miss the view from the loo.
After that, enjoy a good bracing walk along the Thames. Skip Borough Market (you will be far too full to even look at food) and continue past the replica of Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hinde, the Clink Prison Museum and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, until you reach Tate Modern and then the Southbank.
For full details and reservations, visit Aqua Shard. London Bridge tube station.