Shard’s £450-a-night Shangri-La hotel to open in May

It's nine years since plans for the hotel were first announced.

In recent months the hotel's opening date has repeatedly been postponed after problems with the fit-out.

As the tallest hotel in Western Europe, the Shangri-La occupies levels 34 to 52 of the 72-storey Shard.

"Our continued expansion in Europe reflects the growth opportunities for the brand and portfolio," said Shangri-La president Greg Dogan.

"The Shard is a landmark synonymous with London and we hope to encourage visitors to our hotel and the surrounding area.

"We are truly excited to be an integral part of the ongoing development of the south bank community and the borough of Southwark."

The hotel will offer three restaurants and bars.

GŎNG on level 52 will be London's highest bar. It takes its name from 'dougong' – an ancient Chinese structural element of interlocking wooden brackets that will be a component of the bar's interior.

TĪNG, derived from the Chinese word for a living room, is the restaurant and lounge on level 35 and LÁNG – the Chinese word for 'pathway' – is a deli on the ground floor.

Level 52 will also be home to a 24-hour gym and London's highest infinity pool, and along with GŎNG, level 52 will open from 1 July.

"We are thrilled to be opening our doors in May after a number of years of planning and preparation," said Darren Gearing, executive vice president and hotel general manager.

"The hotel's inspiring views will connect emotionally with guests, while our service hallmarks will position the hotel at the forefront of the world's finest hotels."

The hotel will be open for advance rooms, events, restaurant and lounge bookings from 17 March, with opening room rates starting at £450 per room per night.