London Eye Guide
When the London Eye opened in 2000, it quickly became one of the most famous landmarks of the city and a very recognisable structure in London’s skyline. Each year, over 3.75 million visitors coming from all over the world ride this cantilevered wheel and enjoy the unique views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and more.
Highlights
The view over London
This giant wheel offers breathtaking views of London. To enhance the experience, you can download the London Eye Guide app for free (available in several languages). Tap on any hotspot to discover fun facts and historical insights about London's main landmarks. And if you forgot to bring your binoculars, you can buy some just before boarding.
On board the capsules
Up to 28 visitors board a capsule at once. There are no designated seats but there is a bench in the centre (which you probably won’t use if you spend your time pressing your nose to the window). You will be on board for one rotation, which takes about 30 minutes. At the top, the capsule is almost 135 metres above the ground.
For special occasions
If you want to make your visit extra special, you can book a chocolate, champagne or wine-tasting experience. They last for two rotations. For a night you’ll never forget, it is also possible to book a private capsule, if for example you’re looking to pop the question. So far, more than 5,000 people have got engaged on the London Eye.
Did you know?
- As of 2015, the London Eye has been sponsored by the world’s most famous soda brand and is officially called the Coca-Cola London Eye.
- Just like the Eiffel Tower, the London Eye was supposed to be a temporary structure, built for the celebrations of the millennium.
- There are 32 capsules but they are numbered from 1 to 33. For superstitious reasons, the number 13 has been skipped.
Take a break
The Tattershall Castle
Victoria Embankment, SW1A 2HRThis pub on a boat is situated on the Thames, opposite the London Eye. It’s the perfect spot for a drink with a view. Choose from a great selection of draught beers or try one of their many gins. Hungry? Have a fish and chips on the deck.
Skylon
Belvedere Road, Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XXSituated on the first floor of the Royal Festival Hall, this stylish restaurant serves modern European cuisine and has an impressive wine menu. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar before dinner or go there for brunch on a Saturday or Sunday.
Southbank Centre Food Market
Belvedere Road, SE1 8XXHave a walk around this street-food market and give in to temptation. Enjoy food from all over the world, from meaty dishes to sweet treats, smoothies to teas and coffees. The market is open on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.
Nearby attractions
Sea Life London Aquarium
County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PBDiscover the wonders of the underwater world and meet rays, octopuses and sea turtles at the London Aquarium. Make sure you don't miss the Rainforest Adventure and the sharks’ feeding time (2.30pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays).
Southbank Centre
Belvedere Road, SE1 8XXWith five unique venues, this is the biggest arts centre in the UK. Taking in exhibitions, concerts, plays and talks, there's always something to do and the Southbank Centre is open every day. Prices vary depending on the performance.
Odeon BFI IMAX
1 Charlie Chaplin Walk South Bank, SE1 8XROpened 20 years ago, the BFI Imax is the ultimate place to take in 3D films. Its screen is over 20 metres high and 26 metres wide – the biggest in the country. Watch the latest blockbuster and don’t miss a thing.
Fact sheet
Opening hours
The London Eye’s opening hours vary throughout the year. From April until the end of August, it is open 10.00-20.30 on weekdays and 10.00-21.30 on selected weekends.
Getting there
The London Eye is located on the south bank of the Thames and is easy to spot. The closest underground station is Waterloo (Bakerloo, Northern and Jubilee lines) about a five-minute walk away.
Costs
Different tickets and packages available. Standard Tickets start at £27 per adult, and family tickets (minimum one adult and 2 children) from £26 per adult and £20 per child.
Skip the line
Every day, hundreds of curious people queue to get in the London Eye. If you don’t want to wait, aim to arrive early in the morning or book your Fast Track Ticket online from £37 to get priority entry.
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Image credits: © London Eye; © London Eye; © London Eye; © London Eye; © London Eye; © The Tattershall Castle; © Skylon; © India Roper Evans; © Sea Life London Aquarium; © Belinda Lawley; © Alamy; © Getty; © GETTY