London Eye
A 135-meter observation wheel on the South Bank. One rotation takes 30 minutes and offers views of Parliament, St Paul's, and central London. It is especially atmospheric when the lights come on at night.
The London Eye was built in 2000 to celebrate the millennium. It stands 135 meters tall and is the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in Europe. It has 32 enclosed glass capsules, each representing one of London's 32 boroughs and each holding up to 25 people. A full rotation takes about 30 minutes, and the wheel moves so slowly that it never needs to stop for passengers to get on or off. From the capsule, a 360-degree view takes in Parliament and Big Ben across the river, Buckingham Palace, and the dome of St Paul's Cathedral. On clear days you can see Windsor Castle, 40 kilometers away.
Standard tickets cost about 30 to 40 pounds. Buying online in advance is cheaper than at the entrance and lets you choose a time slot. Fast Track tickets cost about 50 pounds. There are also champagne pods, private capsules, and combined tickets that include a river cruise. Queues on summer days and weekends often exceed an hour, so consider booking an early morning slot or a sunset slot. A sunset visit lets you see the daytime view, the sunset, and the city lights all in one trip.
The London Eye is beside Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank. Waterloo Underground station is a 5-minute walk away, and from Westminster station it is an 8-minute walk across Westminster Bridge. This bridge is also a classic spot for photographing the London Eye and Big Ben together. Walking east along the South Bank path takes you to Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, and Borough Market, about 2 kilometers in total. Along the way you will find street performers, book stalls, and restaurants. It is one of London's most pleasant walks. In winter, the South Bank Centre also hosts a Christmas market.
You can move freely around the capsule and take photos, but glare on the glass can be strong at night. If you are afraid of heights, choose a capsule position in daylight for the widest view.
Opening hours
11:00–18:00 (until 20:30 in summer and on weekends)
Nearby sights
- Palace of Westminster & Big Ben
- Westminster Abbey
- Churchill War Rooms
- Covent Garden
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- Piccadilly Circus
- British Museum