London Eye

Introducing the London Eye

Located in the London borough of Lambeth, on the south bank of the River Thames, the London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, boasts 32 cabins, each carrying approximately 16 passengers . A full rotation takes 30 minutes, making it the world's first and once the largest observation wheel. Aboard the London Eye, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of London, and the city's local authorities have approved its permanent landmark status. It's called the Millennium Wheel because it was built to celebrate the millennium and is now a major tourist attraction in London.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons;

It has a temperate oceanic climate with small temperature differences between the four seasons. The summers are cool and the winters are warm. The air is humid with frequent rain and fog, especially in autumn and winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;

Nearby attractions: National Gallery, Oxford Street, Thames River, St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben, etc.

Tickets

Regular tickets: Standard tickets £30 / Fast track tickets £40 (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Attraction opening hours

10:00-18:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)

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Most Popular FAQs for London Eye

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, was officially opened in 2000 as part of the UK's celebration of the new millennium. It is a giant Ferris wheel that offers unrivaled views of London’s skyline. Standing at 135 meters tall, it was the world’s largest observation wheel until 2006 and remains a major tourist attraction, symbolizing modern London.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The London Eye is located on the South Bank of the River Thames, near the Houses of Parliament. The nearest London Underground stations are Waterloo (Bakerloo, Northern, Jubilee, and Waterloo & City lines) and Embankment (Circle, District, and Northern lines). You can also take a bus, or a taxi, or simply walk from the central areas such as Westminster or Covent Garden.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The London Eye is open daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during peak seasons. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid large crowds. For quieter visits, weekdays are generally less busy.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The standard adult ticket for the London Eye costs around £27. Tickets for children and families are available at reduced rates. Tickets can be purchased online through the official website or at the ticket office at the London Eye itself. Buying tickets online in advance can help you save time and sometimes offers discounts.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays, to avoid long wait times. You can book tickets up to a few months in advance, but same-day tickets are also available depending on availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

The London Eye ride takes approximately 30 minutes, but you should plan to spend around 1 to 1.5 hours at the attraction, including time for buying tickets, queuing (if needed), and enjoying the 4D cinema experience.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The ride itself offers stunning views, with highlights including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard.
• The 4D cinema experience provides an exciting preview of the London Eye journey.
• The interactive exhibits inside the London Eye area offer fascinating facts about London’s landmarks.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, and there are also audio guides available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and more. The audio guides provide in-depth information about the sights visible from the London Eye.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the London Eye offers the best views of London, with wide-open spaces perfect for taking photographs.
• Inside the capsule, the clear windows allow for unobstructed views of landmarks like Big Ben, the London Bridge, and the Shard.
• At sunset or night, the views over the city skyline are particularly stunning for photographers.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by purchasing your tickets (or collecting them if pre-booked) at the ticket office, then head to the boarding area. After enjoying the 30-minute ride, you can visit the 4D experience, and take time to explore the gift shop before leaving.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available, and they offer a different experience with the city lights and evening skyline. The London Eye also occasionally hosts special events and private capsule bookings for things like Champagne experiences or VIP tours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The London Eye can get quite crowded, especially during weekends and school holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays in the morning or late evening, particularly during the off-peak seasons (autumn and winter).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• There are toilets available both before and after the ride.
• A café and a gift shop are located near the entrance, offering drinks, snacks, and London-themed souvenirs.
• Rest areas are available for visitors who wish to relax before or after the ride.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The London Eye is fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments, including wheelchair users. It offers priority boarding for disabled visitors and provides wheelchair rentals. It is also family-friendly and accommodates children with strollers.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted for tickets, food, and gifts at the London Eye. Cash is also accepted, but it’s easier to pay by card or mobile payment.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Within the London Eye area: The Riverside Café offers coffee and light snacks.
• Nearby: There are several restaurants on the South Bank, such as the Skylon and Gillray's Steakhouse, as well as street food vendors along the Thames.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, the cafes and nearby restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options, including plant-based dishes and vegetarian-friendly snacks.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, a luxury hotel, is located nearby.
• The Savoy, a famous 5-star hotel, is also close to the London Eye.
• There are numerous budget-friendly hotels around the area, especially near Waterloo Station.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are just a short walk away.
• The Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre are nearby on the South Bank.
• The National Gallery, Covent Garden, and the London Aquarium are also in close proximity.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops at the London Eye selling items such as London Eye miniatures, postcards, clothing, and other themed gifts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• The London Underground is easily accessible from the London Eye, with the nearest stations being Waterloo and Westminster.
• Buses also serve the area, with stops nearby.
• For further sightseeing, you can take a riverboat cruise from the nearby Westminster Pier.