Boarding the London Eye
Located in the South Bank neighborhood on the River Thames in London, United Kingdom, the London Eye, sometimes called the Millennium Wheel, stands 135 meters tall as the largest observation wheel in Europe. It has become a staple of the city skyline and, since 2005, has served as the official site for New Year's Eve celebrations, complete with a countdown and fireworks display.
This engineering feat resembles a giant bicycle wheel and draws 4 million visitors annually. Installed to mark the turn of the millennium, a ride lasts 30 minutes and provides a panoramic view of the city. On a clear day, you can see landmarks up to 40 km away.
The wheel moves at a steady pace of 0.9 km/h, giving you plenty of time to board and disembark as the wheel continues to rotate. It can be stopped to allow visitors with limited mobility or the elderly to enter safely. Recognized with a Thea Award for innovation in the entertainment industry, the London Eye has been the subject of various corporate naming deals. While British Airways and EDF were previously associated with the attraction, it currently operates under a naming agreement with Coca-Cola.
The structure consists of 32 climate-controlled capsules with a modern design, each capable of holding up to 25 people, where you are free to sit or walk around. You can even book a private capsule starting at 450 GBP (about $570). The management company offers various packages online, including family deals and premium experiences like champagne flights, or bundled tickets for other major attractions such as the Madame Tussauds wax museum, the London Dungeon, the Shrek's Adventure theme park, the Sea Life London aquarium, or hop-on hop-off circuits with Big Bus Tours.
Book your tickets online in advance and plan to arrive at the site at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
I admit I wasn't excited about this Ferris wheel. Given the price, I thought it was a tourist trap. But I let myself be talked into it and I don't regret it. The cabins are enclosed and comfortable. You really get a spectacular view of London. I think it is something you have to do at least once.