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.
Before you visit the 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Also visit
Trafalgar Square is a public space and tourist attraction in central London, known for its historic monuments, including Nelson’s Column, the lions statues, and the iconic Fourth Plinth, which displays rotating contemporary art installations. The square is often bustling with cultural events and street performers. It's also a gateway to the National Gallery, which houses a vast collection of paintings by renowned artists.
Distance from London Eye: 0.6 mile
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster. The tower is an iconic symbol of London and the sound of the bell is broadcast across the nation during a few events. The architecture is stunning and a popular photo op.
Distance from London Eye: 0.4 mile
Buckingham Palace is the principal residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch. You’ll get to explore the State Rooms, witness the Changing of the Guard, and stroll through the beautiful royal gardens. The palace is an emblem of the UK's history and tradition.
Distance from London Eye: 1.6 miles
