If you’re planning a trip to London, breakfast at Sky Garden is one of the best ways to start your day in the city.
I’ve been to London several times over the years — that’s one of the perks of living in Europe. London is one of those cities you simply return to again and again. With its mix of history, culture, architecture, and vibrant city life, it offers everything you could hope for from a major capital.
One experience that should definitely be on your itinerary is a visit to Sky Garden, ideally early in your trip. Not only does it give you a breathtaking overview of the city, but it also sets the tone for the rest of your stay.
Why Visit Sky Garden?
Sky Garden is located on the 35th floor of the famous “Walkie Talkie” building at 20 Fenchurch Street in the heart of the City of London.
The space is a unique public indoor garden with lush greenery, panoramic views, and an open-air terrace overlooking the London skyline. With its modern architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows, it offers one of the most impressive viewpoints in the city.
While many visitors come for the views alone, having breakfast at Sky Garden makes the experience even more memorable.
Breakfast at Darwin Brasserie
We visited Sky Garden in December and decided to book breakfast at Darwin Brasserie, located at the top of the building.
We chose an early reservation so we could experience the sunrise over London, which turned out to be a wonderful way to start the day. It also helped us get out early and make the most of our sightseeing afterward.
Darwin Brasserie requires a reservation and a £15 deposit per person, which is deducted from your final bill. One of the advantages of booking the restaurant is that you can skip the line for Sky Garden entry, which is a nice bonus — especially during busy periods.
You will still go through airport-style security before entering the building, so it’s recommended to arrive about 30 minutes before your reservation. This gives you time to pass security and explore the gardens before your meal.
The breakfast itself was excellent. The menu offers a range of options for both adults and children, and the food was delicious. Prices typically range between £15–£25 per person, which is slightly higher than average breakfast spots, but the views and atmosphere make it well worth it.
If possible, I highly recommend booking a window table when making your reservation. We were a little late with our booking and couldn’t secure one, but it would make the experience even more special.
We decided to eat first and explore the garden afterward, but this really comes down to personal preference. If you’re visiting in the evening, however, it might be nicer to explore the garden before dinner while the sunset views unfold.
Next time we visit (we’re planning a return trip in April), we’re hoping to book dinner at sunset. Do note that there are specific rules for children during evening dining hours, so it’s worth checking those ahead of time. These restrictions only apply to the restaurant — if you’re simply visiting the garden, there are no issues.
Sightseeing Near Sky Garden
One of the best things about starting your morning at Sky Garden is its fantastic location. After enjoying breakfast and the views, you’ll already be in the heart of the city and ready to explore.
Here is a perfect walking route with several iconic sights nearby, all within easy walking distance.
Monument to the Great Fire of London (5 minutes)
Just a short walk from Sky Garden, you’ll find the Monument to the Great Fire of London, built to commemorate the devastating fire of 1666.
If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb the 311 steps to the top for another great view of the city.
Leadenhall Market (5–7 minutes)
Next, head towards Leadenhall Market, one of London’s most beautiful historic markets.
Its ornate Victorian architecture makes it a lovely place to wander, and Harry Potter fans may recognize it as a filming location used for Diagon Alley scenes.
St. Paul’s Cathedral (10 minutes)
From Leadenhall Market, continue toward St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior alone is worth seeing. The surrounding area also offers some beautiful viewpoints of the cathedral’s famous dome.
Tate Modern (10–15 minutes)
From St. Paul’s, walk across the Millennium Bridge to reach Tate Modern, London’s renowned contemporary art museum.
The museum is housed in a former power station and offers free entry to many exhibitions, as well as incredible views of the Thames.
Southbank & Borough Market (10 minutes)
To finish your walk, stroll along the lively Southbank area toward Borough Market.
This historic food market is one of London’s best spots for lunch or a snack. You’ll find everything from fresh pastries and street food to artisan cheeses and international cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Breakfast at Sky Garden is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. Starting your day high above the city with panoramic views of London is unforgettable.
Combined with the nearby sightseeing route, it also creates a perfect first day itinerary for exploring the city.
If you’re visiting London soon, I highly recommend adding Sky Garden breakfast to your plans.
It’s a beautiful way to start your day — and your trip
