Shangri-La at The Shard opens in London

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard has opened in London, over a year after it was originally scheduled to start welcoming guests.

The 202-room hotel, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts’ first property in the United Kingdom, is located in the tallest building in Western Europe on floors 34 to 52. The State of Qatar is a joint owner of the building.

Celebrating Shangri-La’s Asian heritage, the hotel’s opening ceremony began with the traditional ‘awakening of the lion’ and a colourful dance procession, which was followed by the official ribbon cutting led by Mayor of London Boris Johnson. The Mayor was joined by Lord and Lady Coe and international dignitaries.

“The sweeping views from Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard provide an entirely new perspective on London. It is a spectacular setting in which to introduce our signature Asian-inspired hospitality to the UK,” said Shangri-La president and CEO Greg Dogan.

“The master architect Renzo Piano had amazing vision with his design of The Shard. We’ve created a unique hotel that complements the iconic building and makes the most of the 360-degree view of London.”

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London is the Hong Kong-based hotel group’s 83rd hotel and third in Europe, following the openings of Shangri-La Hotel, Paris and Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul in 2010 and 2013, respectively. It was originally scheduled to open in March 2013.

Every one of the hotel’s 202 guestrooms and suites has a view, and the rooms are amongst the largest in London, averaging more than 42 square metres. They feature Chinese art reinterpreted in a modern, abstract way alongside a soothing colour scheme and mood lighting. All rooms have and a butler service is offered in all suites.

The hotel’s Asian influence extends to its F&B options, with a restaurant, patisserie and artisan deli, and champagne and cocktail bar all having Chinese themes.