The London Eye - Everything You Need To Know

Planning a trip to London? The London Eye needs to be on top of your list. This iconic observation wheel stands 135 meters tall on the South Bank of the River Thames and has become one of the city's most famous landmarks since opening in 2000.

Why visit the London Eye? You'll get stunning views of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace from glass capsules high above the city. It's Europe's tallest observation wheel and offers an experience you won't forget.

Whether you're traveling with family or celebrating something special, the London Eye makes your Europe Tour Packages truly memorable.

London Eye - Visitor Info

• London Eye Opening Hours:
• Most of the Year: 11 am to 6 pm
• Summer Season: 10 am to 8:30 pm
• Height: 135 metres
• Facilities: Baby Change facilities, First Aid trained team, Gift shop, Toilets, & Wheelchair accessible Ramp
• Location: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom
• Tickets Per Adult:
• Standard: ₹3,387 (£33)
• Fast Track: ₹4,927 (£48)
• Flexi Fast Track: ₹5,646 (£55)
• London Eye + River Cruise: ₹5,030 (£49)
• London Eye + Madame Tussauds: ₹5,030 (£49)
• London Eye + Madame Tussauds + SEA LIFE: ₹5,543 (£54)
• London Eye + Madame Tussauds + London Dungeon + SEA LIFE London Aquarium + Shrek's Adventure + hop-on-hop-off BIG BUS Tour: ₹6,056 (£59)
• Champagne Experience: ₹5,440 (£53)
• Private Pod: ₹87,247 (£850)
• Cupid's Pod: ₹66,719 (£650)
• Proposal Pod: (£1390)
• Afternoon Tea Experience: ₹7,698 (£75)
• Eye Lounge Experience: ₹7,698 (£75)

Interesting Facts About The London Giant Wheel

If you're curious about visiting the London Eye, here are some interesting facts:

1. Not a Ferris Wheel: Technically, it's called a Cantilevered Observation Wheel because it is supported only on one side, unlike traditional Ferris wheels.
2. Tallest in Europe: Until 2006, the London Eye was the tallest observation wheel in the world. While Ain Dubai in the UAE now holds that title, the London Giant Wheel remains the tallest in Europe.
3. 32 Capsules but Numbered 1-33: There are 32 capsules in total, each representing one of London's boroughs, but they are numbered 1-33 as number 13 was skipped due to superstition.
4. Capsules Rotate with the Wheel: The capsules are motorized to rotate independently, keeping passengers upright as the wheel turns.
5. Built in Sections: The Big Wheel London was constructed in sections, laid flat on floating platforms in the River Thames, and then raised over several days.
6. 360-Degree Views: On a clear day, visitors can see as far as 40 km to Windsor Castle, with panoramic views spanning all of London.
7. Slow Ride: The London Giant Wheel rotates at 0.9 km/h (0.6 mph), completing one full rotation in about 30 minutes; slow enough that passengers can board without the wheel stopping.
8. Top Paid Tourist Attraction: Attracting over 3 million visitors annually, the Big Wheel London ranks among the most visited paid attractions in the United Kingdom.
9. Impressive London Eye Height: Standing at 135 metres tall, the London Eye dominates the city's skyline and offers unmatched views across the capital.

Experiences in the London Eye

These experiences in the London Eye will linger in your memories:

• The Classic Ride: Glide up in a spacious glass capsule for 30 minutes of stunning views. You'll see all of London's famous landmarks from above. Each capsule fits up to 25 people, so there's plenty of room to move around and take photos.
• Champagne Flight: Toast to the view with a glass of chilled bubbly as you float above the city. It's a simple way to make the ride feel more special and celebratory.
• Wine & Chocolate Tastings: Enjoy carefully selected wines or chocolates while taking in the skyline. It's a treat for your taste buds and your eyes at the same time.
• Private Capsule: Want the whole capsule to yourself? Book it for proposals, birthdays, anniversaries, or work celebrations. No sharing with strangers, just you and your group.
• Fast Track Entry: Skip the queues and board quickly with priority tickets. This is a lifesaver during peak times when lines get long.
• Combo Deals: Save money by bundling your ticket with other attractions like the SEA LIFE Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, or Shrimp Wreck Golf nearby.
• Sunset & Evening Rides: Watch London light up as day turns to night. The city looks completely different after dark, with thousands of twinkling lights below.
• School Trips: Students can book educational visits with learning materials about London's history and landmarks built into the experience.
• Special Events: Throughout the year, enjoy themed celebrations, like Christmas lights, New Year's Eve fireworks, Valentine's packages, and more.
• Perfect for Photos: The floor-to-ceiling glass gives you clear shots from every angle. No poles or wires blocking your view, making the Big Wheel London one of the best places to visit.
• Extra Perks: Browse the gift shop for souvenirs, and grab food or drinks at nearby County Hall restaurants before or after your ride.

London Eye Events 2025

1. Ghost Cruise on the Thames

Take a spooky boat ride along the Thames with live storytellers sharing London's darkest tales, including Jack the Ripper's chilling history and other ghostly legends.

• Dates: October 25 - November 2, 2025
• Cost: ₹2,677 (£26.50)

2. Holiday Light Show

Experience festive decorations, holiday music, and stunning views of London's twinkling lights from specially themed capsules this Christmas.

• Dates: December 15 - 25, 2025
• Cost: No extra charge (Included in regular London Eye tickets)

3. New Year's Eve Fireworks

Watch the fireworks display from riverside spots or upgrade to a capsule for premium views.

• Date: December 31, 2025
• Cost: Between ₹2,060 and ₹5,150 (£20-£50) based on location

Best Time to Visit London Eye

Explore the best time to visit the Ferris wheel London below:

Peak Season (June - August)

Weather: Warm and sunny with temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. Some rainy days. The sun stays out until 9 pm. July is the hottest month.

Pros

• Long days mean more time to explore
• Warm weather is comfortable
• Best chance for clear views from the top
• Attraction stays open late (until 8:30 pm)

Cons

• Massive crowds everywhere
• Very long waiting lines
• Hotels and flights are expensive
• Must book tickets ahead of time
• Packed capsules with many people

Suggested Read: Best Things to do in London this summer 2024

Shoulder Season (March - May, September - October)

Weather: Cool and mild, around 10°C to 20°C. Some rain showers. Pleasant but unpredictable weather. Bring a jacket and an umbrella.

Pros

• Much fewer tourists
• Shorter queues
• Cheaper hotels and flights
• More space in the capsules
• Beautiful spring flowers or autumn colors
• Still enough daylight for sightseeing

Cons

• The weather changes quickly
• Rain is common
• Days are shorter than in summer
• Late spring gets busier (April-May)

Low Season (November - February)

Weather: Cold with temperatures below 10°C. Gets dark by 4 pm. Chilly and often cloudy or rainy. Winter weather can be harsh.

Pros

• Very few crowds
• Cheapest hotels and flights
• No long waits anywhere
• Christmas lights and decorations look magical
• Night views of lit-up London are stunning
• Great shopping sales in January

Cons

• Very short days, dark by 4 pm
• Cold weather makes waiting outside uncomfortable
• Rain and fog can block the views
• Shorter opening hours (closes by 6 pm)
• Closed on Christmas Day
• Closed some days in January for repair

Suggested Read: 15 Best Things To Do In London This Winter | Ultimate Guide

Best Time to Ride the London Eye

• Early Morning: Arrive right when the attraction opens to enjoy the shortest wait times and quieter capsules.
• Weekday: Saturdays and Sundays are packed. Go on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday instead.
• Evening/Late Hours: Watch the city lights turn on as the sun goes down. It looks incredible and makes great photos.

How to Reach London Eye?

Below are the various transport modes you can explore to reach the Ferris wheel London conveniently:

How to Reach London Eye By Flight

• Fly into Heathrow Airport, the closest and most convenient for reaching the London Eye.
• From Heathrow Airport, the London Eye is 23 km away.
• Take the Piccadilly Line directly to Green Park station, then switch to the Jubilee Line to Waterloo station.
• The journey takes about 50-60 minutes. From Waterloo, it's just a 5-minute walk to the London Eye.

How to Reach London Eye by Tube/Underground Metro

• Waterloo is the nearest underground station, requiring only a 5-minute walk to reach the London Eye.
• The station is situated in Zone 1 and connects to four different lines: Bakerloo (brown), Jubilee (grey), Northern (black), and Waterloo & City (turquoise).
• Once reached the station, signs for the South Bank will point the way to the attraction.
• Other Options: Embankment and Charing Cross Stations.
• These two stations are located next to each other on the northern side of the River Thames.
• The walk from either station takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
• Visitors need to cross Hungerford Bridge to reach the London Eye on the opposite bank.
• From Westminster Station, travelers should take exit one and follow the directional signs toward Westminster Pier.
• The London Eye is within comfortable walking distance of this location.
• Plan your visit via Journey Planner or National Rail.

How to Reach London Eye by Bus

Regular Bus Services

• Numerous bus routes stop within close proximity to the London Eye.
• The following services provide direct access: routes 1, 12, 59, 68, 76, 77, 139, 148, 159, 168, 176, 188, 211, 243, 381, 507, and 521.

Specialized Tourist Routes

• RV1 Connection Route: This route links the London Eye with other major attractions across the city, including the Tate Modern and Covent Garden.

Hop-On Hop-Off Tours

• Big Bus Tour London includes the attraction on its red route as part of their open-top bus experience.
• These tours allow passengers to disembark at the London Eye and rejoin the route later.
• “Transport for London's journey planner” offers detailed information about all bus routes and schedules.

How to Reach London Eye by Boat/River Cruise

London Eye Pier Location

• The London Eye is situated directly beside the London Eye Pier, making river travel a convenient option.
• Multiple boat services dock at this pier throughout the day, connecting various points along the Thames.

River Boat Services

• Regular water transport operates between the London Eye Pier and numerous other riverside locations.
• Services run from popular destinations including the O2, Bankside, Embankment, and Blackfriars.
• Additional connections link the pier to London Bridge, Tower, Canary Wharf, and Hilton Docklands.
• Boats also travel from Masthouse Terrace, Greenwich, Royal Arsenal Woolwich, St. Katherine's, and Westminster Piers.
• These services provide scenic alternatives to underground and bus travel while avoiding street traffic.

Circular River Cruise Option

• A dedicated 40-minute circular cruise departs from the London Eye Pier.
• This sightseeing cruise travels along the River Thames before returning to the starting point.
• The cruise offers views of landmarks and attractions lining both banks of the river.

How to Reach London Eye by Coach

• Coach drivers receive a 15-minute window for dropping off their group at the London Eye.
• A separate 15-minute window is provided for picking up the group after their visit.
• These time limits ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent congestion in the drop-off area.
• Coaches are not allowed to remain in the parking bays while groups explore the attraction.
• Drivers must leave the area after completing the drop-off and return only for the scheduled pick-up time.

How to Reach London Eye by Taxi

• A designated taxi stand is positioned at the end of the London Eye's landscape area.
• It provides a clear, organized point for passengers to find available taxis.
• The stand serves both arrivals who need transport to the attraction and departures heading elsewhere in London.

How to Reach London Eye by Car (Self-Drive)

• The London Eye is situated within London's Congestion Charge Zone.
• Drivers entering this area during charging hours must pay the applicable fee.
• Additionally, Q-Park Westminster car park is located within a short walking distance of the London Eye.
• The facility offers a 10% discount on all pre-booked parking reservations.
• Pre-booking ensures guaranteed space availability and saves money compared to standard rates.

Tips for Visiting the London Eye

For those planning to visit the London Eye, here are the essential travel tips to make the experience even more enjoyable:

• Book in Advance: The London Eye is top-rated, so it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance. This not only guarantees entry but can also save time by allowing you to skip the ticket queue.
• Visit During Off-Peak Times: To avoid large crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
• Check the Weather: For the best views, visit on a clear day. The visibility can be greatly affected by weather conditions, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• Take Advantage of Special Packages: Consider the various special packages available, such as the Fast Track tickets, which allow you to skip the line, or the Champagne Experience for a more luxurious ride.
• Explore the Surrounding Area: The London Eye is located in a vibrant area with many other attractions nearby, including the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, the London Dungeon, and the Southbank Centre. Make a day of it and explore the many sights and sounds of the South Bank.

Is Visiting the London Eye Worth It?

Absolutely! Why visit the London Eye? Because it offers an experience you won't find anywhere else in Europe. Standing 135 meters tall, this iconic landmark gives you breathtaking views of London's skyline that you'll remember forever. Whether you choose a simple ride, a champagne experience, or sunset viewing, every moment feels special.

The smooth 30-minute journey lets you spot Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and even Windsor Castle on clear days. With combo deals, fast-track options, and family-friendly facilities, the London Eye delivers great value and unforgettable memories. It's not just a ride, it's a must-do London experience.