The Walkie Talkie Building in London is centrally located and accessible via Monument Tube Station, just a four-minute walk away, with additional nearby stations including Bank and London Bridge. Pedestrians typically approach from Fenchurch Street for easy access and views of the building’s unique shape. The area also features attractions such as Leadenhall Market and The Monument, making it suitable for extended walking tours combining architecture and history. Further details provide insight into ideal routes and nearby points of interest.
Although the Walkie Talkie Building is located in the busy financial district of London, it is easily accessible on foot from several nearby transport hubs. A recommended starting point is Monument Tube Station, which is only a four-minute walk away, providing direct access via the London Underground.
Approaching the building along Fenchurch Street offers straightforward pedestrian access to its main entrance. Several other stations, including Bank, Cannon Street, Tower Hill, and London Bridge, are within a five to ten-minute walking distance, giving visitors multiple options depending on their route. The building’s exact geographic coordinates are latitude 51.511284 and longitude -0.083672.
Fenchurch Street provides easy pedestrian access to the Walkie Talkie, with multiple nearby stations within a short walk.
Walking from London Bridge is particularly notable as it provides a clear view of the building’s distinctive top-heavy shape from the south, across the River Thames. This route allows pedestrians to appreciate the architectural design before arriving. The building also features a southern entrance in addition to the main northern entrance.
The building, situated at 20 Fenchurch Street, falls within the City of London’s financial district, surrounded by other important landmarks. Its coordinates, latitude 51.511284 and longitude -0.083672, confirm its central location. Public transport options extend beyond the Tube, with nearby bus stops served by routes such as the number 40, making the site accessible without the need for car travel. Additionally, London Cannon Street and London Fenchurch Street railway stations are close by, providing further convenience.
Visitors can combine their walk to the Walkie Talkie Building with stops at nearby attractions. These include The Monument, a historic pillar commemorating the Great Fire of London; Leadenhall Market, known for its Victorian architecture; The Gherkin, a modern skyscraper; and the Bank of England. You can also explore the rich maritime history at the National Maritime Museum, which is not far from the building.
These sites are all within walking distance, allowing for an extended walking tour that combines cultural and architectural interest. This makes the Walkie Talkie Building both an accessible and integral part of a broader sightseeing experience in central London.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Year Was the Walkie Talkie Building Completed?
The Walkie Talkie building was completed in August 2014, marking the end of its construction phase.
Its structural core was topped out in March 2012, with steelwork finished by December of the same year.
The building reached shell and floor stage by April 2014, allowing first tenants to move in from May 2014.
Public access to the Sky Garden and other amenities began in January 2015, following the building’s full completion.
Who Was the Architect of the Walkie Talkie Building?
The architect of the Walkie Talkie building was Rafael Viñoly, a Uruguayan-born architect based in New York.
He founded Rafael Viñoly Architects in 1983, a firm with global offices including one in London.
Viñoly designed the building with its distinctive curved shape and glass façade.
His firm also led remedial changes to fix solar reflection issues.
Viñoly passed away recently but left a notable architectural legacy through this project.
Are There Any Restaurants Inside the Walkie Talkie Building?
Yes, the Walkie Talkie building houses several dining options within its Sky Garden on floors 35 to 37.
There are three main restaurants: Fenchurch Restaurant on the 37th floor offering fine dining with a tasting menu, Darwin Brasserie on the 36th floor serving British classics all day, and Fenchurch Terrace.
Additionally, two bars, Sky Pod Bar and City Garden Bar, provide lighter meals and drinks.
Reservations are recommended for the restaurants.
Can You Visit the Sky Garden for Free?
Yes, visitors can access the Sky Garden for free, but they must book tickets online in advance through the official website, as entry is by timed slots only.
Walk-in access is limited and not guaranteed. Children under five enter free, while others require tickets.
Alternative entry is possible by reserving a table at the Sky Garden’s restaurants or bars.
Visitors must follow security protocols and adhere to the one-hour visit limit without a dining reservation.
What Is the Official Height of the Walkie Talkie Building?
The official height of the Walkie Talkie building, located at 20 Fenchurch Street, is 160.1 meters, or 525 feet.
It has between 34 and 38 floors, depending on the source. The height was reduced from an initial 200 meters due to concerns about visual impact on nearby historic landmarks.
This building ranks as the fifth-tallest in the City of London and includes a Sky Garden near its top floors.
