the London Eye, the gigantic 135m high Ferris wheel, is London’s biggest attraction. It stands on the south bank of the Thames, diagonally opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The original name was the Millennium Wheel, it was built in honor of the turn of the millennium.
It was originally planned to be a temporary attraction that would last for about 5 years. But because it turned out to be such a huge success it has become an enduring attraction.
the London Eye has 32 air-conditioned enclosed cabins. Each cabin can accommodate 25 people. A full round takes about 30 minutes, because the Ferris wheel rotates so slowly, the wheel does not have to be stopped to let people get in or out.
The London Eye is often very busy, it is recommended to buy tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. You buy tickets in a time slot, during which time you must report. You can buy regular tickets, which cost about 32 euros for adults, but there are also fast lane tickets for sale. this will prevent you from having to queue for a long time. These tickets cost about 41 euros per adult.
When you stand in line, your luggage and yourself will be scanned for security reasons.
In good visibility the views are fantastic: Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Windsor Castle, everything is visible.
It is a pity that the ride only takes 30 minutes, before you know it you are back down.
how do you get there?
Waterloo underground station is the closest. From here it is about a 5 minute walk (signposted South Bank).
Embankment and Charing Cross are also not far away, these are on the other side of the Thames. From these stations it is about a 10-15 minute walk via the Hungerford Bridge.