SHANGRI LA LONDON

If you've ever dreamt of sleeping amongst the clouds this may just be the place for you. Standing proud in the heart of London is one of the tallest buildings in Western Europe, The Shard. A triumph of almost 310 metres into the sky allows for undoubtedly, the most spectacular views in all of London; made only more spectacular by the floor to ceiling windows spanning across every inch of exterior. Watch through the glass, as the life of the city unfolds along the River Thames from the ease of your freestanding tub.

Another illustrious feat for the building is the expansive infinity pool, which too, is the highest of its kind in Western Europe. It is here, that you can watch the city wake-up whilst relishing in a morning dip. Afterwards you can make your way up to level 35, where you will find the renowned TING restaurant. TING has predominately European influences with subtle hints of the Asian influence you grow to assume from the Shangri-La.

The philosophy at TING is to highlight their use of locally sourced ingredients. Inspired by this, is the restaurant's signature dish, which we didn't contest trying. The dish is created with a selection of hand-dived scallops, foraged from the coast of the Northwest Highlands, composed with delicate hints of carrot and ginger, complete with a light yuzu and grape seed oil dressing. The flavours pose a clever balance, a combination we recommend trying yourself. It is from TING that you can experience the panoramic views of the River Thames and The Tower Bridge, all while the night of the city slowly slicks across the sky.

The evening wouldn't be over without taking the elevator to level 52 for a scotch on the rocks at GONG. The bar oozes Oriental expression; which is noted in their use of interlocking wooden brackets – a prominent element of traditional Chinese architecture. The restaurant's Asian influence was inspired by the mythical aspect of cinnabar – 'a mineral that has been used historically to create the 'dragon red' found in the walls of Chinese Imperial Palaces.'

The Shard really is an oasis right in the thick of London; the building is just a stones throw away from the Tate Modern and the St Pauls Cathedral and if you care to venture a little further is the Canary Wharf and the Maritime Greenwich. There really is no better way to experience London or immerse yourself in the romance of the electric city.