The London Eye, located on the South Bank of the River Thames, is one of the most iconic landmarks in London. Officially opened to the public in March 2000, this giant Ferris wheel was initially constructed to celebrate the new millennium. Since then, it has become a must-visit attraction, offering panoramic views over the city.
Rising to a height of 135 meters, the London Eye was the world's tallest Ferris wheel until 2006. It remains Europe's tallest observation wheel, with its 32 sealed and air-conditioned passenger capsules representing London's 32 boroughs. Fascinatingly, the capsules are numbered from 1 to 33, skipping number 13 for superstitious reasons.
More than 3.75 million visitors ride the London Eye each year, making it the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom. A single rotation takes about 30 minutes, during which time visitors can see landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul's Cathedral.
The structure's design was a collaboration between several architects, including husband-and-wife team Julia Barfield and David Marks. Its construction was a feat of engineering, with giant pieces assembled along the banks of the Thames before being hoisted up into position.
A lesser-known fact about the London Eye is that it functions without a traditional foundation. Instead, it relies on a frame that is supported by 70-meter-long, 16-ton anchor cables, ensuring stability and safety for its riders.
Typically, the London Eye is illuminated in pink and purple colors, but it changes its lights to support various causes. For example, it has been colored green for St. Patrick's Day and red, white, and blue to mark royal occasions, adding a celebratory mood to London's skyline.
The London Eye also played an innovative role in British cultural history by being featured in numerous films and television shows. It has appeared in movies like "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" and has been a backdrop for many a fictional British secret agent's escapades.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
Make sure to check out the LED light schedule before your visit. The London Eye is often lit up in different colors for special events or to support various causes. Catching it at night when it's beautifully illuminated can add an extra layer to your experience.
If possible, aim for a dusk or sunset ride. The transition from day to night offers a stunning view of London, as you get both daytime and nighttime vistas within a single rotation.
For an enhanced experience, consider buying a combination ticket that includes other attractions like the Sea Life London Aquarium or the London Dungeon, as they are both located nearby and often offer better value as part of a package deal.
Visit the London Eye 4D cinema experience included in your ticket price before the ride. The short 4D movie gives an immersive glimpse into London's history and culture, enhancing the overall London Eye experience.
Look out for the special seasonal events. Sometimes the London Eye offers themed capsules, such as Valentine's Day or Halloween specials, which can make your visit even more memorable.
Visiting Times & Costs:
Opening Hours:
The London Eye is generally open throughout the year but has varied opening times depending on the season. During peak tourist seasons, such as summer and school holidays, it tends to open from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM. In winter, opening hours may be reduced. It is recommended to check the official schedule closer to your visit date as timings can fluctuate.
Cost:
The price for a standard adult ticket is approximately £32.50 if purchased on the day, but discounts are frequently available if booked in advance online. Children under three years can experience the ride free of charge, but they do need to have a ticket. There are also various types of capsules and experiences available at different price points, including private capsules and champagne experiences.
Accessibility:
- The London Eye is fully accessible to wheelchair users. However, there are specific guidelines to ensure a smooth experience, such as arriving 30 minutes before the scheduled ride time and informing staff upon arrival.
- Each capsule can accommodate up to two wheelchairs at a time. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure availability.
- For visitors with sensory needs or disabilities, personal assistants can enter for free, provided they have a registered Proof of Entitlement.
- Assistance dogs are welcome, but other pets are not permitted on board.