Things to do in London

Your comprehensive tour planner to the London Eye

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If you’re planning to hit up the London Eye, you’re in for a treat. Perched at 135 meters, this massive Ferris wheel gives you a sweet view of London like no other. On a clear day you’ll be able to see as far as Windsor Castle– that’s almost 25 miles away!

Read this guide for some valuable tips and tricks for making the most out of your experience. I’ll spill the beans on when to drop by, the different tickets you can snag, and how to sidestep those pesky queues.

How long is the ride on the london eye?


London eye


The London Eye offers a 30-minute aerial view of the city and has inspired the design of similar observation wheels worldwide. Each capsule holds 25 to 30 passengers, but you also have the option of booking a private cabin, which is a popular choice for marriage proposals—over 5,000 couples have gotten engaged here!

For a special touch, consider the Champagne Experience, which includes a glass of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne or a non-alcoholic substitute. Be aware that this attraction draws large crowds, so if you prefer to avoid long waits, fast track tickets are available to expedite your entry.

Best time to visit


To dodge long lines and crowds, aim for the 10 am opening time. The midday period is usually busiest, and it's best to steer clear of the July to September school holidays. For stunning sunset views, weather permitting, visit when it's clear. The London Eye shuts at 9 pm, with the final rotation typically less congested. New Year's Eve is absolutely magical with the famous London Eye Fireworks but keep in mind that during this time, tickets sell out quickly due to the popularity of the event.

Headout to London Eye


London Eye opening hours


March 29th to April 14th

Daily from 10 am to 8.30 pm

April 15th to May 26th

Monday to Friday 11 am to 6 pm and Saturday/Sunday from 10 am to 8.30 pm

May 27th to August 31st

Daily 10 am to 8.30 pm

September 1st to October 27th

Monday to Friday 11 am to 6 pm and Saturday/Sunday from 10 am to 8.30 pm

October 28th to November 3rd

Daily 10 am to 8.45 pm

November 4th to December 22

Monday to Friday 11 am to 6 pm and Saturday/Sunday from 10 am to 8.30 pm

December 23rd to December 31th

Daily 10 am to 8.30 pm, except on Tuesday it’s open from 10 am to 5.30 pm

Tips for visiting the London Eye


  • Book fast track tickets to gain entry from a dedicated entrance and skip a majority of the queue. This ticket also gives you access to the Champagne bar and 4D Cinema Experience.
  • Photograph the sights from the London Eye at least 1 foot away from the glass walls to avoid glare from the curved surface.
  • Contact the London Eye office to know how you can park your car at a discounted rate at the Q-Park Westminster.
  • Experience the London Eye after nightfall to see the city adorn itself in twinkling lights.
  • Use the touchscreen tablets to know more about the London landmarks that are visible from the London Eye
  • Consider booking a private pod for more space and privacy, especially for groups.

Reaching the London Eye


The London Eye is situated on the Queen's Walk promenade, directly across the River Thames from Big Ben. London boasts a highly efficient public transport system that provides easy access to the London Eye. Tickets for the attraction can be purchased inside the County Hall, adjacent to the Eye.

About reaching the London Eye, here’s how you get there:

  1. By Tube: The nearest tube station is Waterloo, which is a five-minute walk away. Alternatively, Embankment and Charing Cross stations are a short walk across the Hungerford Bridge.
  2. By Bus: Buses to the London Eye include routes 1, 12, 59, 68, 76, 77, 139, 148, 159, 168, 176, 188, 211, 243, 77 and 381, 507, 521. If you are looking for a day full of covering multiple tourist attractions in London, then you can opt for sightseeing or hop on hop off bus tours which also include stops at the Eye.
  3. By River Boat: River boat services, such as the Thames Clippers, stop at the London Eye Pier. This is particularly enjoyable in good weather and provides a different perspective of London from the river.
  4. By Car: While driving is an option, parking can be limited and expensive. It's advised to use public transportation if possible. Q-Park Westminster car park is the nearest spot for parking and if you have pre-booked your tickets to the Eye then you’ll get a 10% discount here.

Amenities and Accessibility


Eye Lounge: The Eye Lounge is a comfortable and stylish spot to relax before or after your ride on the London Eye. It offers a range of refreshments and is accessible with the Eye Lounge Experience ticket. It’s a VIP experience so you’ll get fast track access to a shared pod and a glass of Champagne before or after the ride at the lounge.

London Eye gift shop: You’ll find the London Eye gift shop at the exit. This shop is filled with memorabilia, from keychains and mugs to detailed replicas of the London Eye itself. Additionally, the shop offers souvenir photographs taken on the boarding ramp and while you exit.

Accessibility:
  • The London Eye is accessible and equipped to welcome guests with disabilities.
  • If a disabled person is accompanied by a carer, the carer does not need to purchase a ticket. Just ensure you have all the necessary documents.
  • Fold pushchairs before entering the pod. They can be kept at the buggy park near the ticket office.
  • The London Eye is wheelchair-accessible.
  • Pregnant guests can ride the London Eye free of charge and staff assistance is available upon request.
  • Guide dogs, seeing-eye dogs, and other assistance animals are allowed on the London Eye.
  • The London Eye has two toilets.

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Plan your visit to the London Eye