Perched high in the sky on the 52nd floor of the Shard, GONG by Shangri La remains the highest bar in Western Europe. As a result it boasts absolutely jaw-dropping views of London - you can see the River Thames winding its way through London from up here, as well as making out iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, St Paul's Cathedral, and the shimmering lights of Canary Wharf in the east.
London's dramatic skyline makes the perfect backdrop for GONG by Shangri La's extensive cocktail menu, which includes bright and breezy lunchtime highballs as well as intense sundowners to enjoy against a London sunset, spread across multiple themed cocktail menus. The Voyager Zheng menu takes influence from Asia and the Far East, offering cocktails such as the Japan-inspired Onibasu Martini (vodka, shochu, sake, mirin, wine, soy and red spruce), and the Sri Lankan Dry Tai (Seedlip Grove 42, Bax botanics, lemon verbena, Orgeat, Gong citrus, pineapple and Aecorn Aromatic). The Deluxe list features Gong twists on classic cocktails, then there's the Tropical Oasis menu - devised in conjunction with Diplomatico Rum - where guest can sip on refreshing rum cocktails, and take a seat next to GONG's stunning sky pool. Naturally, this is also the highest pool bar in Western Europe too.
The interiors are suitably glamorous - this is certainly a place to impress a guest or a date. The sleek marble bar provides a focus for the room, whilst bar stools and lounge chairs are upholstered in striking scarlet fabrics, and mood lights shimmer off the smooth surfaces.
There's always plenty going on at the bar, including regular DJ sessions where the beats continue late into the night. GONG also offers a Liquid Afternoon Tea, where tea-inspired miniature cocktails are pared up with sweet and savoury snacks.