One of the most eye-catching, and fascinating landmarks of this city, the London Eye, is one of the tallest observation wheels in the world. With 32 glass pods and an incredible 360-degree view of the city, it draws 4 million visitors every year. If you enjoy capturing panoramic views, this Ferris Wheel has to be on your travel itinerary!
London Eye - Practical Information
Timings
The London Eye is open between 11 AM and 6 PM. The last entry for London Eye is at 5:45 PM. However, during summers - June, July, and August - it opens at 10 AM and is closed by 8:30 PM. If you want to experience the London Eye at night, summer months are it!
If you want to avoid crowds, visit close to the opening or closing hours, especially during the holidays.
BONUS: Get exclusive tickets to Madame Tussauds London
Note: London Eye remains closed between the 9th and 22nd of January for annual maintenance
How to reach
Train - Waterloo station is a five-minute walk from the London Eye. The Charing Cross station is also near to London Eye, but will take you fifteen minutes on foot.
Bus - As a popular tourist attraction, London Eye is on the route of most tourist buses. You can hop on to Bus 211, 77 and 381 to reach London Eye.
Boat - There are multiple services available from Bankside, London Bridge, Canary Wharf and more to reach London Eye via the river Thames.
Taxi - You can catch a taxi to London Eye from the city however this might be a little heavy on the pocket.
Why Visit the London Eye
This dominating figure on the London skyline 32 capsules made of glass and can carry about 800 people per rotation. If the weather is clear, one can see up to 40 km from the wheel, and view the city from a maximum height of 135 metres!
It takes thirty minutes to complete one rotation; the slow pace gives ample opportunities to view the major attractions of London and click photos of some major landmarks from up there! Some of these include Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the river Thames, and the Westminster Bridge.
The capsules/pods are air-conditioned and have enough space to move about, along with seating if you’d prefer to sit. The pods are equipped with touch screens as well to get tidbits about the landmarks and views from the London Eye.
The London Eye experience also comes with a 4D cinematic experience! Make sure you don’t miss this one.
The London Eye View - 8 Unmissable London Landmarks from the London Eye
1The roof of St. Paul’s Cathedral
The majestic design, and an eventful past, make St Paul’s Cathedral a masterpiece. It has the world’s largest dome, about 366 feet in height. The exterior dome structure has two ashlar floors on top of a basement and is surrounded by a railing above the upper cornice.
2Buckingham Palace
This Palace is the official residence of the King, administrative headquarters and an important part of the royal family and national celebrations. The palace has 775 rooms, its very own post office, swimming pool, and cinemas. It also serves as the backdrop to the regular Changing the Guard ceremony.
3Westminster Abbey
Prince William and Kate got married at this Gothic cathedral in London, and it has hosted several coronation ceremonies and royal weddings for many years. The church has beautiful, repetitive patterns which give it unparalleled charm. The pointed arches and vaulted ceilings are the architectural highlights of Westminster Abbey which appear sharply from the London Eye.
4Big Ben
You might think that Big Ben refers to the tall clock tower in London but it is the 13-ton bell which is placed inside the tower, behind the dial of the clock. Catch a glimpse of this 320 feet tall tower, and the world’s largest clock from the pod on the wheel.
5The Thames
Remember the iconic London bridge from the rhyme “London Bridge is falling down"? It is built over the River Thames. The tranquil blue waters of the largest river in England are a treat for sore eyes!
6Buildings of the Financial District
The London skyline is dominated by various architectural marvels such as the Gherkins (also referred to as the 30 St Mary Axe), it derives its name from its round, vegetable-like design, and has multiple offices, restaurants, and a cocktail bar. You can also spot Tower 42, the NatWest Tower, which was London’s first skyscraper at 600 ft high. Some of the other prominent buildings to spot include Leaden Hall and Lloyds.
7Jubilee Gardens
Right at the foot of the London Eye, this lush garden was created to mark the silver jubilee of the late Queen Elizabeth II. It has well-kept and striking lawns, an adventure playground for children below 11 years of age, and lush trees. It’s the perfect place to unwind after your ride on the Eye.
8The Bridges Across the Thames
The Westminster Bridge is one of the first things you see as you begin to ride the wheel. This bridge is one of England's oldest and most recognised, and is easy to observe because it is 353 meters long and has 7 iron arches. You can also spot the Millennium bridge or the “wobbly bridge”, which is a pedestrian-only bridge and links St Paul’s Cathedral to Tate Modern.
Buy London Eye Tickets Online
Book your tickets online with Headout and save time on the long queues. As the London Eye is a popular tourist attraction, you might be standing for hours in the ticket line before making it to the pod. The hassle can be very tiring, and frustrating especially if the weather is harsh. Choose from our specially curated packages below for unbeatable deals, and discounts!
FAQs
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Explore Top London Attractions
If you have ample time at your disposal, you can explore London attractions on your vacation and make the most of your trip. Here’s everything you can explore on your next visit to London! From West End Shows to London Eye, we’ve got tickets for everything covered at heavily discounted rates.
