The London Eye: Everything You Need to Know | easyGuide
The London Eye offers breath-taking 360 degree views over the capital.
Spot iconic landmarks including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace!
The attraction was originally built to commemorate the millennium (and so named the Millenium Wheel). It was supposed to be temporary but became so popular that it became permanent!
Now, more than 3 million tourists make their way to the London Eye each year.
Here are some answers to the most popular questions about the iconic landmark…
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What is the nearest tube station?
The London Eye is located on the south bank of the river Thames. The nearest underground and train station is Waterloo (Zone 1). which is served by four lines: the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines.
From Waterloo Station, it is approximately an 8 minute walk and Charing Cross, Westminster and Embankment tube stations are also just a short walk away.
What are the opening times?
The London Eye is open almost everyday from 11am to 6pm in spring and summer and has special opening hours from 10am to 9.30pm on some days. For up to date opening times, visit the Official London Eye website here.
What is the best time to visit?
We recommend visiting the London Eye at dusk so that you can experience the lights of the city. Book your ride shortly after sunset for twinkly views (click here to check current sunset times in London).
The queue times are also quieter during the evening hours as tourists have gone home for the day.
Is it better to go at night or during the day?
Both! At sunset, you will get to see London lighting up as the sun sets in the distance. The sparkling city lights are truly a sight to behold and extremely romantic.
During the day, you can see everything more clearly. So if you’re looking for the best views of London, book during a nice, sunny day.
What time is the last ride?
As a rough guide, summer hours end at 8.30pm and winter hours end at 6pm, but do check in advance on the London Eye website for the hours on the day you plan to go.
How long is the wait?
On average you should allow for 30 minutes waiting in the queue for the London Eye.
However, waiting times may exceed 2 hours when there is a rush of visitors (especially on weekends and during the school holidays/summer months). Peak times are between 11am and 3pm.
Shorter queues are usually first thing in the morning and in the evening after 5pm.
If you don’t want to waste time queuing, pre book your tickets online here. This is not only cheaper, but also helps avoid the additional queuing line at the ticket office!
How long does it take to go around the London Eye?
One rotation will take around 30 minutes and rotates continuously at approximately 0.26 m/s circumferential speed.
The wheel moves so slowly (two 30 minute rotations per hour) that it does not need to stop for the boarding or disembarkation of passengers, except for those with disabilities.
Is it worth it?
Yes. With jaw-dropping, panoramic views from the heart of the city, it is one of the best ways to soak up London’s impressive skyline and offers great photo opportunities.
On a clear day you can see as far as Windsor Castle, which is over 20 miles away!
How much does it cost?
Tickets can be purchased for less than £30 per person. It is cheaper to pre-book online rather than purchasing tickets on the day.
You can save up to 20% off the on the day price by booking in advance!
When was the it built?
Construction began in 1998. The wheel was put together over the river, in a horizontal position, before being pulled upright.
It was ceremonially opened by Prime Minister Tony Blair in December 1999, but did not admit its first paying passenger until March 2000.
Why was it built?
The London Eye originated as an entry in 1993 to a competition (sponsored by The Sunday Times and Great Britain’s Architecture Foundation) for a new landmark to commemorate the millennium in London. However, no winner was declared.
Marks and Barfield Architects decided to undertake the development of the project themselves and found the site where the wheel now stands. Much of the funding was provided by British Airways.
Can you take bags on the London Eye?
Yes. Small day size rucksacks and bags (maximum size 18″ x 13″ x 8″ or 46cm x 33cm x 20cm) are permitted subject to a search.
Briefcases, laptops, baby bags, buggies and pushchairs (must be folded down before joining the boarding queue) can also be taken on the London Eye.
Large bags, suitcases and rucksacks cannot be taken on board the London Eye.
Do you get your own pod?
Each pod has a capacity of 25 passengers. There are 32 pods, which correspond to the 32 boroughs that (together with the City of London) constitute Greater London.
You can hire a VIP private pod on the London Eye from £185 here. A private pod includes access privately for 2 to 6 guests, as well as fast track boarding through a dedicated entrance.
What restaurants are nearby?
- La Cucina Di Mamma | ££ — £££ | Italian
- Locale | ££ — £££ | Italian
- Wagamama Southbank | ££-£££ | Asian
- Ping Pong Southbank | ££-£££ | Asian
- Skylon | ££££ | British, Special Occasion
- Cote Brasserie | ££-£££ | French
- Brasserie Blanc | ££-£££ | French
- Wahaca Southbank | ££-£££ | Mexican
- Black and Blue | ££-£££ | Steakhouse
- By CHLOE | ££-£££ | Vegan
Do you need to book a time slot?
The London Eye strongly advises guests to pre book online to guarantee admission — you can do so here. The time slot you select is your planned boarding time for the London Eye, however this doesn’t guarantee that you will be on the London Eye at the time selected.
Arrive 30 minutes prior to your time slot, so that you have plenty of time to collect your tickets and visit the 4D Cinema experience which is included in your ticket.
If you are visiting London for the day, the London Eye is not to be missed. The tickets are affordable and it’s a perfect day out for families!
How can I get a discount?
Book the London Eye directly with easyGuide for the best prices, most easy booking process and speediest confirmation!
Thank You From easyGuide
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Originally published at https://easyguide.biz on March 9, 2021.
