Visiting the London Eye is one of the best ways to experience breathtaking views of London. The iconic Ferris wheel, which stands 135 meters (443 feet) tall, offers panoramic vistas of the city, including landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and more. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your visit to the London Eye and make the most of the experience:
1. How to Get to the London Eye
The London Eye is located on the South Bank of the River Thames, directly opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. It’s a prime location for sightseeing in central London.
Address:
- London Eye
Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB
Public Transport:
- Tube: The closest Tube station is Waterloo Station (served by the Bakerloo, Northern, Jubilee, and Waterloo & City lines). It’s about a 5-minute walk from the station to the Eye.
- Bus: Several buses stop near the London Eye, including routes 211, 507, and 381.
- River Bus: You can also take a Thames Clippers River Bus to the London Eye Pier, which is ideal if you’re coming from other riverside attractions.
- Walking: The London Eye is within walking distance of other key attractions like Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the Southbank Centre.
2. Opening Hours & Ticket Information
The London Eye operates daily, but its hours may vary depending on the season, so it’s important to check before you go.
Typical Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM (last entry at 8:00 PM)
During peak seasons (summer and holidays), the opening hours may be extended.
Ticket Prices:
Ticket prices vary based on the type of experience you choose:
- Standard Ticket: Around £30 per adult and £25 per child (aged 3-15). Children under 3 are free.
- Fast Track Ticket: For faster access with a skip-the-line experience, tickets cost around £45-£50 per adult.
- VIP Experiences: You can book private capsules or champagne experiences, which can be significantly more expensive (around £100-£150+).
- Family Tickets: Discounted family tickets are available (2 adults + 2 children) for about £95-£105.
- Online Discounts: Booking tickets in advance online can save you money and avoid long queues.
3. What to Expect During the Experience
Once you’ve secured your ticket, here’s what you can expect:
The Queue & Boarding:
- Standard Queue: The regular queue can sometimes be long, especially during peak tourist seasons, so plan for some waiting time. If you’re traveling in peak seasons (summer or holidays), consider booking the Fast Trackoption for quicker entry.
- Boarding the Capsule: The London Eye is a rotating observation wheel, so it moves slowly, allowing passengers to board without it coming to a complete stop. The boarding platform is level with the capsules, making it accessible for people with disabilities.
- Capsule Experience: Each glass capsule can hold up to 25 people. It’s spacious and features floor-to-ceiling windows, so you have unobstructed views of London.
Duration of the Ride:
The ride lasts around 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the view, take photos, and spot famous landmarks. The Eye makes one full rotation during the ride, which gives you time to take in the stunning 360-degree panorama.
Best Times to Visit:
- Daytime: Offers clear views of landmarks like the River Thames, Big Ben, the Shard, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. You can also spot the green parks of London.
- Sunset: If you’re aiming for a magical experience, sunset is the perfect time for golden-hour views and fantastic photo opportunities.
- Nighttime: The London Eye is beautifully illuminated after dark, and you can enjoy seeing the city’s lights sparkle, including the illuminated bridges and the glowing dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
4. What to Bring
- Camera or Smartphone: The views are incredible, and you’ll want to capture the moments.
- Comfortable Shoes: While the ride itself is smooth and relaxing, you may have to walk a bit to reach the London Eye, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Weather Gear: London weather can be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella or a jacket depending on the season. The capsules are enclosed, but there may still be a breeze.
- Tickets: If you’ve booked online, make sure you have your ticket ready (printed or on your phone).
5. Dining Options & Nearby Attractions
- Dining: The London Eye area has several cafes and restaurants nearby, such as Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar at the County Hall (right next to the Eye), which offers great views of the Thames. There’s also The Wharf Restaurantfor casual dining.
- Nearby Attractions:
- The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: Just across Westminster Bridge.
- Westminster Abbey: A short walk away, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see.
- Southbank Centre: A cultural hub with art galleries, theaters, and cafes, just a short stroll away.
- Sea Life London: Located close by, you can also visit one of the largest aquariums in Europe.
- Shrek’s Adventure: An interactive experience for families located near the Eye.
- Tate Modern and National Theatre: A bit further down the Southbank, but easily reachable.
6. Tips for an Enhanced Experience
- Book in Advance: To save money and avoid long lines, book your tickets online.
- Check for Deals: Look out for combo tickets that offer discounts for attractions like Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, and the London Dungeon.
- Use the London Eye App: The London Eye app provides a detailed map of the landmarks you’ll be able to spot from the capsule, which enhances your experience.
- Plan for Souvenirs: There are souvenir shops at the London Eye, selling everything from postcards to plush toys. It’s a great place to pick up a memento from your visit.
- Accessible Experience: The London Eye is fully accessible to wheelchair users, and there is a priority queue for people with disabilities.
7. Is the London Eye Worth It?
The London Eye offers one of the best panoramic views of the city, especially if you want to see London from a unique vantage point. It’s an iconic experience, ideal for first-time visitors or those looking to get a bird’s-eye view of London’s famous landmarks. The ride is calm, comfortable, and offers plenty of photo ops, making it a great addition to your London itinerary.
Conclusion
The London Eye is a must-do attraction in London, offering stunning views and a unique perspective on the city. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, a visit to the Eye is an unforgettable experience. Make sure to plan your trip ahead of time, choose the right time of day for the views you want, and enjoy the spectacular sights from one of the world’s most famous observation wheels.
