The rooftop terrace at One New Change offers one of London’s best free views. Located opposite St Paul’s Cathedral, it provides a rare vantage point where visitors can see the cathedral’s dome up close. Although part of a shopping centre, the terrace has become a popular viewpoint for both visitors and local workers seeking a quiet break or a place to watch the skyline change through the day.
One New Change opened in 2010, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. The complex blends offices, restaurants and retail spaces within a structure of glass and steel, reflecting the changing face of the City of London in the early 21st century. The building sits on a site steeped in history. It was once part of Cheapside, one of medieval London’s busiest trading streets, where merchants sold jewellery, textiles and fine goods in the shadow of St Paul’s.
What to see at the One New Change roof terrace
The terrace provides an open-air platform with uninterrupted views across the City. The most striking sight is St Paul’s Cathedral, which appears almost within reach. The dome rises directly in front of the terrace, and many visitors come here specifically to photograph it. On clear days, the view stretches east towards the towers of Canary Wharf and west towards the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. The Shard and the Walkie Talkie building can also be seen, creating a skyline that mixes centuries of architectural change.
The journey to the top is part of the experience. Visitors travel in a glass lift that runs up the side of the building, offering a view of St Paul’s Cathedral framed by the centre’s modern architecture.
The rooftop itself is largely uncluttered, with seating areas and open spaces where you can pause to take in the view. There is also a bar, Madison, which is a nice spot to come in the evening to see the dome illuminated after dark. During the day, the terrace is often used by office workers eating lunch as well as tourists who come for the view.
Visiting the One New Change roof terrace
The rooftop terrace is on the sixth floor of One New Change shopping centre, which stands directly opposite St Paul’s Cathedral. The lift is inside the shopping centre and is clearly signposted. The nearest Underground station is St Paul’s, on the Central line, just a few minutes’ walk away. Mansion House (District and Circle lines) and Bank (Central, Northern and Waterloo & City lines) stations are also nearby.
Access to the rooftop is free of charge, making it one of London’s most affordable city views. Early morning visits offer quieter conditions and soft light for photography, although sunset is a more popular time to visit.
Visitors should note that the space is exposed to the weather, with limited shelter. On windy or rainy days, it can feel cold, even during summer. The terrace has level access via lifts, making it suitable for wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. Toilets and other facilities are available within the shopping centre below, along with places to eat and drink.
One New Change’s central location makes it easy to combine with a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral.
Your visit shouldn’t take any more than half an hour.
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