Standing tall in the heart of London’s financial district, Heron Tower is one of the city’s most striking modern skyscrapers. With its shimmering glass façade, innovative design, and bustling restaurants overlooking the skyline, it’s more than just an office building—it’s a symbol of modern architecture and business excellence in the 21st century.
What Is the Heron Tower?
Heron Tower, officially known as 110 Bishopsgate, is a 46-story commercial skyscraper located in the City of London. Completed in 2011, the tower quickly became one of London’s tallest and most recognizable buildings, standing at 230 meters (755 feet) including its mast.
It was developed by Heron International, a British property development company founded by Gerald Ronson. The tower was designed by the award-winning architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), known for their sleek, sustainable designs that redefine urban skylines across the globe.
Location and Accessibility
Heron Tower enjoys a prime position at 110 Bishopsgate, near Liverpool Street Station, one of London’s busiest transport hubs.
From this location, professionals and visitors can easily connect to the rest of London via:
- Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines (via Liverpool Street Underground Station)
- Elizabeth Line (Crossrail)
- National rail services to Greater London and beyond
Its strategic position makes it a favorite address for global businesses and high-end dining establishments.
Architecture and Design
Heron Tower’s design is a masterpiece of modern glass-and-steel architecture. The building’s exterior features shimmering glass panels that reflect the sky, giving it a sleek, futuristic appearance.
Inside, the design emphasizes light, space, and sustainability. The office floors are open-plan and flexible, allowing companies to customize their layouts. A dramatic triple-height lobby greets visitors with an aquarium filled with exotic fish—one of the largest privately owned tanks in the UK.
The building also incorporates energy-efficient systems, including solar panels, motion-sensor lighting, and advanced air filtration, making it one of London’s greener skyscrapers.
Dining and Attractions at Heron Tower
Heron Tower isn’t just an office building—it’s also home to some of London’s most popular restaurants and bars, offering panoramic views of the city.
Duck & Waffle
Located on the 40th floor, Duck & Waffle is famous for its creative British and European dishes—especially the signature “Duck & Waffle” served 24/7. Its floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking sunrise and nighttime views across London.
Sushi Samba
Just one floor below, Sushi Samba combines Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine in a lively, colorful atmosphere. The restaurant’s outdoor terrace, surrounded by glass and greenery, is one of the most Instagrammed spots in London.
These venues can be reached through dedicated glass lifts that glide up the exterior of the building—adding an element of thrill to the experience.
Heron Tower vs Other London Skyscrapers
| Feature | Heron Tower | The Shard | 30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 230m (755 ft) | 310m (1,016 ft) | 180m (591 ft) |
| Floors | 46 | 72 | 41 |
| Completed | 2011 | 2012 | 2003 |
| Main Use | Offices, Restaurants | Mixed-use | Offices |
| Developer | Heron International | Sellar Property Group | Swiss Re |
While The Shard remains the tallest building in London, Heron Tower holds its own as one of the city’s most stylish and business-friendly skyscrapers.
Sustainability and Innovation
Heron Tower was designed with the environment in mind. It earned BREEAM Excellent certification, one of the highest sustainability ratings for buildings in the UK.
Key eco-friendly features include:
- Photovoltaic solar panels on the roof
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Natural ventilation
- Efficient lighting and energy management systems
These innovations not only reduce operational costs but also align with London’s broader commitment to sustainable urban development.
Tenants and Business Hub
Heron Tower serves as a prestigious headquarters for many international corporations, financial firms, and tech startups. Its high-speed connectivity, modern office infrastructure, and luxurious design make it a top choice for companies seeking a strong presence in London’s financial district.
With 24-hour access, concierge services, and advanced security, the tower caters to the fast-paced demands of modern global business.
Heron Tower at Night
When the sun sets, Heron Tower transforms into a glowing beacon on the London skyline. The upper floors are illuminated with soft, colored lighting, making it a visual landmark that complements nearby skyscrapers like The Gherkin and The Shard.
For visitors, a nighttime trip to Duck & Waffle or Sushi Samba offers not just fine dining—but one of the most spectacular panoramic views of London.
Fun Facts About Heron Tower
- It was London’s tallest building for a brief time before The Shard overtook it.
- The tower’s aquarium in the lobby holds over 1,200 fish.
- Its exterior glass lifts can reach speeds of 8 meters per second.
- Despite its official name “110 Bishopsgate,” most Londoners still call it Heron Tower.
Final Thoughts
Heron Tower is more than an architectural marvel—it’s a living symbol of London’s evolution into a modern, global city. Combining elegant design, sustainability, and world-class dining, it bridges the gap between business and lifestyle.
Whether you’re working in its offices, dining above the clouds, or simply admiring it from the street below, Heron Tower remains one of London’s most fascinating landmarks—a perfect blend of ambition, design, and urban energy.
FAQs About Heron Tower
1. Where is Heron Tower located?
Heron Tower is located at 110 Bishopsgate, in the City of London, near Liverpool Street Station.
2. How tall is Heron Tower?
The building stands 230 meters (755 feet) tall, including its mast.
3. What restaurants are in Heron Tower?
Heron Tower houses Duck & Waffle and Sushi Samba, both offering stunning views of London.
4. Who designed Heron Tower?
It was designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) and developed by Heron International.
5. Is Heron Tower open to the public?
While the offices are private, the restaurants and bars on the upper floors are open to the public with reservations.
