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Guide to Visiting the London Eye in 2024

Last updated: April 13, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 12 Comments

One of London’s most recognizable and popular attractions is the London Eye.

This enormous observation wheel has been providing visitors with wonderful views across London since the turn of the millennium, and is just as popular today as it was then. In fact, it is one of the UK’s most popular paid attractions.

We’ve ridden the London Eye a number of times on various visits to London. The first time was in 2015 and most recently in 2023. Today we’re going to share everything you need to know to help plan your visit.

We’ll cover everything from how to buy tickets, the different experiences available on the London Eye, how to save time and money, and how to get the best photographs from your visit.

London Eye Facts

Before we get into planning your London Eye visit, let’s cover some history and facts about this well-known London landmark.

What is the London Eye?

The London Eye is a cantilevered observation wheel, or Ferris wheel. It’s 135 metres (443ft tall) and when it was built it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world.

Unlike a regular Ferris wheel which normally seats 2 to 4 people, the London Eye features 32 large pods, each of which can carry up to 25 people who can move around the cabin area.

It is found on the edge of the River Thames diagonally opposite the Houses of Parliament, and it offers visitors fantastic views from its observation pods.

The London Eye is a great alternative to the View from the Shard, the Sky Garden and other viewpoint locations around London. We’ll cover these alternatives elsewhere in this guide.

Why was the London Eye Built?

The London Eye was built to mark the Millenium, and it was originally called the Millenium Wheel.

It was purpose built as a tourist attraction, and much like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, it was not actually meant to be a permanent installation.

However, due to its popularity, it was given permanent status in July 2002, only two years after it started operating.

The London Eye is currently owned by Merlin Entertainments. It has partnered with a number of companies in sponsorship deals, which have included British Airways and Coca-Cola. The current sponsor is lastminute.com.

Interesting Facts about the London Eye

The London Eye is the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel. There are larger Ferris wheels, but none with a cantilevered design.

There is in fact some debate as to whether or not the cantilevered design actually qualifies it as a Ferris wheel, although as there’s no formal definition of a Ferris wheel that we can find we think it’s fine to refer to it as such.

If you were wondering, a cantilevered design means that it’s supported only from one side, unlike more traditional Ferris Wheel designs which have supports on both sides.

This design means that it is actually suspended over the River Thames itself.

The London Eye was designed by husband-and-wife team Julia Marks and David Barfield, and it took around seven years from vision to completion. Their vision was to build London’s equivalent of the Eiffel Tower in terms of a visitor attraction.

The passenger capsules, or pods, are positioned on the outside circumference of the wheel rather than inside. As the wheel rotates, these also rotate, so the capsules always remain level.

There are 32 capsules, each of which can hold up to 25 passengers. This means that up to 800 people can be on the London Eye at any one time, or 1,600 per hour. Capsules are numbered from 1-33, with no capsule numbered 13 as some would consider it unlucky.

Capsules move at just over half a mile per hour, with passengers journeying around a quarter of a mile in the half hour rotation. The capsules don’t stop (except for specific situations), so you get on and off as it is moving. Each year the London Eye rotates almost 8,000 times, covering over 2,000 miles!

From the top, you can see up to 40km (25 miles) on a clear day, meaning you can see all the way to Windsor Castle if you are lucky.

The London Eye is a popular location for wedding proposals, with over 5,000 proposals to date. Over 500 couples have even gotten married on board!

The London Eye is also no stranger to the silver screen, having appeared in numerous films and TV, including the Harry Potter films .

Planning Your Visit to the London Eye

Now you know more about the London Eye, let’s look at some useful information to help you plan your visit here.

Where is the London Eye?

The London Eye is found on the south bank of the River Thames in front of London’s County Hall building.

The address is Riverside Building, County Hall, London, SE1 7PB.

The London Eye is about a five-minute walk from Westminster Bridge, and 10 minutes from the Houses of Parliament.

How to Get to the London Eye?

The London Eye is very centrally located and is easy to get to from most locations in London.

If you are already in central London, then it might be easiest to walk to the London Eye. From Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament it’s around a 10-minute walk. It’s 20 minutes’ walk from Covent Garden and 35 minutes from London Bridge.

The London Eye is also easy to reach by public transport. The nearest tube and train station is Waterloo which is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines, as well as by various overland train services.

From Waterloo train station it’s around a 5-minute walk to the London Eye.

The London Eye is also a popular stop for most Hop on Hop off buses in London , with buses stopping about a couple minutes’ walk from the London Eye.

If you are traveling by river, the London Eye is right next to a stop, the London Eye Waterloo Pier. This is served by both commuter and hop on hop off sightseeing cruises .

You can also reach the London Eye by bicycle. There is free cycle parking right next to the base of the London Eye here .

We would recommend against driving to the London Eye due to traffic and the congestion charge. However, if you do drive, the nearest car parks are at the Q-Park in Westminster and at the Southbank Centre.

Sometimes the London Eye offers parking discounts at nearby car parks, check their website here for more information.

When is the London Eye Open?

Opening times for the London Eye vary depending on the time of year and day of the week.

Normal opening times are as follows, however please check on the official website for opening times prior to visiting as things can change:

• On weekends and holidays such as school half term it is normally open from 10am – 8.30pm.
• During the week and outside of holidays opening times are usually from 11am to 6pm.
• From June through to the end of August, opening times are 10.30am through to 8.30pm

It is open every day except major holidays, including Christmas Day (25th December), New Years Eve (31st December) and New Years Day (1st January).

You can check the exact opening times for the date you plan to visit on the official website , where times are shown for every day of the year.

How Long is the London Eye Ride?

Officially, the London Eye ride lasts for 30 minutes. However, your ride might be slightly longer or slightly shorter than this. This is because sometimes the ride pauses, especially when helping those with accessibility needs on and off the capsules.

On a recent visit to the London Eye we timed our ride from the moment we stepped onto the capsule to the moment we stepped off, and it was exactly 25 minutes. So we feel that an average ride time of 30 minutes is probably accurate.

What Can you See from the London Eye?

When you ride the London Eye you will reach a maximum height of around 135 metres (443ft). This height makes the London Eye one of the tallest structures in the surrounding area, and means you will get an incredible view of the majority of London.

How far you will be able to see will of course depend on the weather conditions and air clarity, but on a clear day you can see up to 25 miles (40km) from the top.

Obviously, that means you can see a lot, however, the main highlights that you will see will include:

• The Houses of Parliament / Palace of Westminster
• Westminster Abbey
• Buckingham Palace
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• The River Thames
• Canary Wharf
• Charing Cross train station
• Crystal Palace transmitting station

Of course, you can see a lot more as all of central London will be at your feet, but the above are some of London’s more recognizable landmarks that you’ll be able to see.

A couple of notable London landmarks that you won’t be able to easily see are the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, which are partly obscured by other buildings.

If you want a guide to help explain what you are seeing, we recommend picking up the 360-degree viewing guide which is available for a small fee (2 or 3 pounds when we visited) in the gift shop before your ride. It was included as part of the VIP Champagne experience ride when we did that.

There is nothing inside the capsule in terms of signs or audio to outline the view. In previous years there was an app but this is no longer available.

Do you Need a Ticket for the London Eye?

Yes, all visitors to the London Eye require a ticket. You book a ticket for a specific 15-minute window, which is the time you are allowed to join the queue, not the time your ride will start.

Even with the timed entry system, you will still join a line for security and boarding.

Children under 3 get free rides on the London Eye, but they still need a valid ticket to ride.

Where to Buy London Eye Tickets

The easiest way to buy London Eye tickets is online on the official website here . This website has the best choice of tickets, and you can also save by booking online in advance.

When booking a ticket online, you can choose to print your ticket at home, collect it in person from the self-service kiosks, or save your ticket to your mobile device for display.

You can also buy same day tickets on-site for the London Eye at the ticket office. There are self-service kiosks as well as a manned ticket counter.

However, London Eye staff have informed me that you can only purchase full price same day tickets on-site. So if you want to save by booking in advance, or want to book in advance in general, you will need to book online .

You can also buy London Eye tickets via third party sites such as GetYourGuide here . These are normally just the standard and fast-track tickets and there isn’t the full range of experiences. They do sometimes have the advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of your visit.

Note that when buying a ticket via a third-party site, you don’t get an actual ticket you can ride with, instead you get a booking number. This needs to be exchanged for an official London Eye ticket on site, either at the ticket desk or at the self-service kiosk. Be sure to give yourself some extra time to collect your ticket if you choose this option.

How Much Does the London Eye Cost?

Ticket prices for the London Eye vary. Normally, same day tickets, and tickets for popular days (such as weekends and holidays) are more expensive compared to tickets booked in advance and for less popular days such as weekdays.

There are three main ticket options for the general London Eye experience. These are the standard ticket, the family ticket and the fast-track ticket.

There are also additional premium experiences you can book for the London Eye, which we cover in a separate section.

As you will see, if you book your ticket online at least a day in advance, you normally save on your ticket prices.

Regardless of whether you are visiting on a peak or off-peak day though, we still recommend booking online in advance here as you will avoid the disappointment of turning up and finding there is no availability.

Price below are correct as of January 2024, but do check the official website for the most up to date pricing information and ticket options.

Standard London Eye Ticket Price

The standard ticket is the basic ticket for the London Eye and grants you one 30-minute ride on the London Eye.

The entry is timed, with the ticket granting you access to the London Eye standard queue at the timeslot you choose.

It is important to remember that your ticket time is not your ride time, but the time you are allowed to join the line/queue .

So when planning your time in London, ensure you consider the queue time as well.

Pricing for the London Eye varies depending on the day you visit, as well as the time of day you visit.

The best prices are normally available if you book online for less busy (off-peak) days at least three days in advance. As a general idea, pricing for standard tickets is as follows:

• £25.50 – £45 for adults (16+)
• £22.50 – £40.5 for children ages 3-15.
• Free for children under 3.

If you are able to book at quieter times, you will be able to take advantage of better pricing. However, more popular times such as rides at the weekend, during school holidays and rides around sunset carry a premium.

Peak days vary, so you will need to check prices on the website to see if your chosen day is a peak day. We’d still recommend booking online to avoid disappointment on the day. 

Fast-Track London Eye Ticket Price

The fast-track ticket offers the same ride experience as the standard ticket, but has the advantage of giving you access to the dedicated fast-track ticket line at the time you choose.

This ticket gives you access to a faster ticket line as normally fewer people book these tickets. The ride experience is the same as standard ticket holders, and you share the same capsules. The only difference is you will probably stand in line for less time.

As with the standard ticket, the time you book is the time you can join the line, not the time of your actual ride, which will vary depending on the length of the line.

Fast-track prices also vary depending on the day you visit and when you book.

Generally, fast-track pricing is as follows:

• £40.5-£60 for adults (16+).
• £37.5 – £55 for children ages 3-15.

The London Eye also offers what is known as a flexi fast-track ticket. This allows you to turn up at any time on your chosen day, giving you more flexibility over when you ride.

These tickets between £45 and £65 for adults, £40.5 and £58.5 for children aged 3-15 and are free for children under 3. These tickets can only be booked online.

VIP London Eye Experiences

As well as the general tickets, there are normally a number of premium experiences that you can book at the London Eye.

These are the Champagne Experience , the Private Pod, and the Cupid Pod .

We’ll go through each of these and cover what they cost and what they include.

It’s also worth noting that from time to time there are additional experiences and pods available. For example, there has been a pub themed pod and a tennis themed pod. So do check the official website to see the latest experiences on offer.

Champagne Experience

The Champagne Experience is a hosted experience and it includes:

• VIP check-in and time to relax in the London Eye lounge before boarding
• a host who will lead you through security and to your pod
• a glass of Champagne for each adult (soft drinks also available, and served to those under 18).
• fast track boarding through the fast-track lane
• a 360 degree viewing guide

The Champagne Experience is shared with other people who have booked it, but it is limited to a maximum of 15 people per pod.

Note that the pod is not shared with general ticket holders, so if booking as a group make sure you all get the same ticket types in order to ride together. A person with a standard or fast track ticket cannot share a pod with a Champagne Experience ticket holder.

The Champagne Experience costs between £43.50 and £67  for ages 3+, and is free for those under 3. Just be sure to book them a free ticket when you book your champagne experience.

We really enjoyed the champagne experience when we did it, and it was by far our favourite London Eye experience.

We also think it offers good value especially compared to the fast-track ticket option as it includes fast-track and a hosted experience as well as a glass of Champagne.

Private Pod

You can hire an entire private pod for between 2 and 25 people. This would make for a fun group celebration option, and for larger groups especially it is quite a cost-effective option. A private pod includes:

• exclusive access to a pod for 2 – 25 people
• fast-track boarding
• the option to order food and drink (additional fee applies)

You are not allowed to bring your own alcohol onto the pod. A private pod on the London Eye costs from £675 for a group. Groups must have a minimum of two guests over 18, but can otherwise consist of adults and children.

If there are only two of you, a more fun and cost-effective option though would be the Cupid Pod.

If you are looking for the ultimate romantic London Eye experience for two, consider booking the Cupid’s Pod package . This is a couple’s experience, and includes:

• a private pod for two guests (must be 18 or older)
• A bottle of champagne
• A box of luxury chocolate
• A personal host for your rotation
• Priority boarding

A Cupid Pod package costs £550, which we think makes it a good value option compared to the private pod option if there are only two of you. This would definitely be a good choice for a special occasion.

Can you Cancel or Reschedule a London Eye Ticket?

Tickets for the London Eye sold via the official website are non-refundable.

If you would prefer to purchase a refundable ticket, these are normally available on GetYourGuide here , although do check the conditions before purchasing to be sure.

Note that when buying a ticket via a third party these need to be exchanged for an official London Eye ticket on site, either at the ticket desk or at the self-service kiosk, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time if you choose this option.

If you purchase a standard, fast track or family ticket through the official website, you can change the time online after booking, up to 24 hours before your ride.

If you book a premium experience such as a Private Pod or Champagne Experience, these cannot be managed online. If you need to change these bookings, you will need to contact customer service.

Can you Upgrade a London Eye Ticket?

Yes, it is possible to upgrade some London Eye tickets.

When you are onsite you can upgrade from a standard ticket to a fast-track ticket. When we checked in 2024, the price of this upgrade was £10. To do this, you will need to visit the ticket office.

This upgrade actually works out slightly cheaper than just booking a fast-track ticket online, however there is a risk of there not being availability, so we would not recommend relying on this.

You can also do a refund and rebook of a standard ticket to a fast track ticket, whereby you are refunded the full amount of the standard ticket and you then pay for a fast-track ticket. You can do this in advance of your visit by contacting customer service.

If you want to upgrade to the Champagne Experience from a standard or fast track ticket, this is also possible however it also involves refunding the original ticket and buying a new ticket. This can be done on-site or online with customer service.

All ticket upgrades are subject to availability of course. We would generally recommend just booking the ticket type you are most interested in from the beginning to avoid later disappointment.

This is especially the case for more expensive experiences as these have limited availability.

How Long are the Queues at the London Eye?

Queue times at the London Eye vary depending on the time of year and the time of day. The official website states that queue times for standard entry can be up to 45 minutes, whilst fast track is around 15 minutes.

When we have visited, we have normally not queued for more than 15 to 20 minutes for standard entry, and generally only 5 to 10 minutes for fast track. However we have not visited during the busiest times when the lines can be much longer.

Can You Skip the Line at the London Eye?

If you have not bought a ticket, or have bought a ticket from a third party, then you will first need to join the ticket line inside the ticket office. There are both self-service machines and ticket counters with staff.

In order to skip the ticket line we recommend booking your ticket online in advance from the official site here .

Once you have your actual boarding ticket, you can join the entry line at the time specified by your ticket. There are two entry lines at the London Eye, the standard line and the fast-track ticket line.

You cannot skip the security and entry line; however, the fast-track ticket line is nearly always faster as fewer people have these tickets. Of course, you may be lucky and visit when neither line is busy, in which case both lines will take the same amount of time.

Both lines have a security check as well as a stop for a photo prior to boarding, so it does take a short time to clear these two processes.

London Eye Discount Tickets

You might be wondering if there are discounted tickets available for the London Eye.

First, you can normally save money by booking online in advance on the official website here . Generally, these tickets are the best value option. Families can also save with the family ticket.

Another way you can save is if you are visiting London by train, and you can take advantage of the 2FOR1 offer from National Rail. This will allow you to book two standard adult tickets for a total of £36, or the equivalent of £18 each. Check the website for terms and conditions, as well as exclusions.

If you are a student, you can save up to 35% with the London Eye student discount. Information is available here on how to do that.

Another way you can save on London Eye tickets is to buy a multi-attraction ticket or pass which includes the London Eye. This is only a good idea if you were already planning to visit the other attractions. If so, you can definitely save by buying in a bundle.

For example, you can book:

• A London Eye ride with a London River Cruise
• A London Eye ride with a Hop on Hop off bus tour

We cover the passes that include the London Eye in the next section.

Passes which include the London Eye

If you plan on visiting a number of sights when in London, then you might be able to save money with a multi-attraction pass. These normally include a number of attractions, and the price of the pass is usually less than buying individual entry.

Of course, these passes will only save you money if you visit the included attractions. It’s also important to check exactly what they include, how to use the passes and if there are any exclusions prior to purchase.

The main passes we are aware of which include the London Eye are the following:

• The London Pass , which is one of our favourite passes for London, includes the London Pass as of April 2024. This pass also includes the majority of the other main sights in the city, such as the Tower of London, Madame Tussauds, Westminster Abbey, Hop on Hop off bus and more. If you are visiting multiple sights in London, this pass can save you a lot of money. See our full London Pass review for more information.
• Big City Saver Pass . This pass is available in a number of versions, covering up to 5 premium attractions in London. These attractions include Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, London Dungeon, Shrek’s Adventure, and of course the London Eye.
• London City Pass . This pass includes the Tower of London, London Eye, 24 hour hop on hop off river cruise, and a London walking tour audioguide.
• Merlin Annual Pass – If you plan on visiting a number of attractions across the UK, then the Merlin Annual Pass might be a good option. This includes nearly 30 attractions, including the London Eye, Alton Towers, Legoland, London Dungeon, and Warwick Castle. This is probably best suited for those who live in the UK.

Note that, does not currently include the London Eye.

Is the London Eye Worth It?

The London Eye is certainly a premium attraction in London, so you might ask if it is worth it. We feel that the experience is definitely worth it.

The views are very good, especially on a clear and sunny day, and there really isn’t another experience like it in London.

Is the Fast Track London Eye Option Worth It?

You might be wondering if it is worth buying the fast track London Eye ticket . The answer to this comes down to personal choice and how much you value your time.

If you are visiting the London Eye at a busy time, such as during the summer season, school holidays. public holidays or weekends, then you will most likely save quite a bit of time with a fast track pass, probably at least half an hour if not more.

However, if you are visiting at a quieter time of year, then the difference in queue time is probably not worth it in our opinion.

One thing to mention is that if you are already considering the fast track option, then you might instead consider the Champagne Experience. This is not a lot more expensive, but comes with a number of additional benefits that we think makes it worth considering.

Is the London Eye Champagne Experience Worth It?

We have ridden the London Eye a number of times, and our favourite ride to date was definitely the Champagne Experience .

Whilst this is more expensive than the standard and fast-track options, it definitely felt more special.

One of the main reasons for this was that it was a hosted experience. Our host met us in the London Eye lounge, escorted us through the fast-track area, and rode with us on the ride.

As well as the benefits of fast-track entry, we also got to enjoy a glass of champagne, and our host was able to tell us things about the London Eye and what we were seeing. He was also very happy to take photos of us.

Overall, we highly recommend considering the Champagne Experience if your budget stretches to it, especially if you were already considering the fast-track experience.

Facilities at the London Eye

The London Eye has the following facilities available on-site:

• Baby changing facilities
• Toilets (including accessible toilets)
• Ticket office & self-service ticket kiosks

Security and Restrictions at the London Eye

The London Eye, like most attractions, has security in place prior to boarding, as well as some rules on what you cannot bring on board.

The security line is part of the ticket line, and is normally separated between fast track and standard ticket holders.

When we have visited, they normally check inside bags and use a security wand to scan your body. However, security practices can change over time so this may vary.

They are generally looking for sharp objects like knives which are obviously not permitted on board. The full list of prohibited items can be found here , and includes:

• large bags and luggage
• any item deemed to be a weapon
• glass bottles
• sharp objects including knives and scissors
• skateboards, scooters, rollerblades
• animals (except service animals)

These are fairly common sense restrictions we feel, but it is worth being aware of what is and isn’t allowed to be sure you don’t get caught out.

We recommend not bringing a lot of stuff with you if you can help it to ensure that security goes as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Pushchairs and strollers that can be completed folded down are allowed inside the pods. But they need to be folded up before joining the line and should not be used again until you exit the pods.

Accessibility at the London Eye

The London Eye is fully accessible, and there is a lot of detailed information about accessibility which you can access on their website here .

There is step-free access to the London Eye, and ramps are provided for boarding and disembarking the pods. The London Eye completely stops for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility to board and disembark.

It should be noted that only two wheelchair users are allowed per pod, and wheelchair users need to book a specific wheelchair slot in addition to booking their standard ticket.

Booking the wheelchair slot is free and can be done here . This allows the London Eye to ensure no-one is disappointed on the day due to the limitation on the number of wheelchairs per pod. Wheelchair users can also book a free carer ticket here .

All users have to queue to board the London Eye. However if you have limited mobility or difficulty standing you can request assisted boarding with the onsite team when you arrive.

There are also fully accessible toilets inside the main building where the ticket office is located. There are no toilets on board any of the London Eye pods.

Luggage Storage at the London Eye

There is no official luggage storage at the London Eye, and large bags, suitcases, and other oversized items are not permitted on board.

There are a number of nearby luggage storage facilities in the vicinity, including at Waterloo and Charing Cross train stations.

Ideally though, we’d recommend not bringing your luggage to the London Eye, and leaving it with your hotel in their secure luggage area if possible.

What Time of Day is Best for Visiting the London Eye?

The best time to visit the London Eye will depend on what your aims are.

From a queuing perspective, when we have visited we have noticed that the London Eye is busier in the mornings and less busy in the afternoons.

However, this will vary depending on the day and time of year, so we would not recommend basing your visit time entirely on these observations!

What we feel is more important to consider is when to visit based on the best conditions for getting the best views and photos.

Obviously, you do need to consider the weather conditions, as the views are best when it is sunny. So if the forecast is for rain in the morning and sun in the afternoon, then you might want to book for the afternoon.

Of course, weather forecasts are not always accurate, and when you book in advance you might not know what the weather is going to be like.

Our overall recommendation is that the morning or late afternoon are the best times to visit the London Eye. The best time will depend on the time of year, and also the opening hours.

If you visit in the morning, then the sun will be to the east of the London Eye. This means you will get better light on the river Thames and Houses of Parliament, and won’t be shooting into the sun.

If you visit in the afternoon, then you have a chance to experience the sunset from the London Eye. The sun sets in the west, which means it will set across the Thames in the direction of Westminster. A sunset from the London Eye is a really beautiful experience if you are lucky to get a good one.

Of course, sunset times in the UK vary, from around 9.30pm in summer to just before 4pm in winter. So depending on the opening times of the London Eye and the time of year you visit, viewing the sunset from the London Eye might not be possible. In this case, we’d recommend a morning visit for the best light.

You can check sunset times in London for different months here .

Is the London Eye Air Conditioned?

Yes, all the London Eye capsules are climate controlled and sealed from the elements, so they are warm in winter and cool in summer.

However, the line for the London Eye is not enclosed, and only a small part of it is covered. So you will want to dress appropriately for the weather as you may need to stand outdoors for a period of time whilst in line.

Can I take Food and Drink on the London Eye?

Food and drink is not permitted on the London Eye, with the exception of bottled water. Eating or drinking on the pods is not permitted.

If you book the Champagne Experience, this will include Champagne or a soft drink, as does the Cupid’s Pod experience.

If you book a private pod experience, you can pay extra for food and drink as well. Details of the options will be sent to you after booking.

Is Photography Allowed on the London Eye?

Yes, photography is allowed on the London Eye for personal use. Cameras and smartphones are permitted, but tripods and professional video cameras are not.

If you wish to do promotional filming, permission must be sought in advance.

Note that two photos are taken during your experience (once in line and once in the pods themselves) and these are available for purchase after you exit the pods.

Attractions Near the London Eye

The London Eye is obviously a popular attraction, but there is lots more to do in London.

In fact, there are a number of other popular attractions which are easily accessible from the London Eye, which can make for a full day in London .

The closest attractions to the London Eye are as follows:

• London Eye River Cruise . This sightseeing cruise departs from directly under the London Eye. You can save by buying a combination ticket that includes the London Eye, or you can book it separately.
• The London Dungeon . An entertaining and slightly scary attraction which is right next to the London Eye. We’ve visited other Dungeon attractions and always had fun. Tickets can be bought individually or you can save with a multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass which can include the London Eye.
• Jubilee Park & Garden . This small garden is right next to the London Eye and features some nice green spaces as well as an adventure park for children up to 11 years old. It’s free to visit.
• Shrek’s Adventure London . This popular interactive family attraction is two minutes’ walk from the London Eye. Tickets can be bought individually or you can save with a multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass which can include the London Eye.
• SEA Life Centre London Aquarium . Also just a couple of minutes’ walk from the London Eye, this aquarium offers a range of aquatic exhibits. Tickets can be bought individually or you can save with a multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass which can include the London Eye.
• Hop on Hop off bus . A good way to get around London which comes with an audio tour. Tickets can be bought individually or you can save with a multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass which can include the London Eye.
• Florence Nightingale Museum . Found in St. Thomas’s Hospital, a 7-minute walk from the London Eye, this museum focuses on the life and work of the founder of modern nursing. There’s a small fee to visit.
• National COVID-19 Memorial Wall – just 5 minutes’ walk from the London Eye, on the south bank of the River Thames by Westminster Bridge, is this memorial to all those who lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK. Free to visit.
• The Graffiti Tunnel – street art lovers will want to visit the Leake Street tunnel, also known as the Graffiti tunnel. Here there is a 300-metre stretch of wall which anyone is legally allowed to paint on. 5 minutes’ walk from the London Eye and free to visit.
• Southbank Centre – Europe’s largest centre for the arts is found just 6 minutes’ north along the river. Here there are performances, shops, and dining options, as well as on of the UK’s most well-known skate parks.
• Palace of Westminster – Also known as the Houses of Parliament, this iconic building can easily be seen from the London Eye. It’s about a 10-minute walk away.
• Westminster Abbey – around 15 minutes’ walk from the London Eye, this ancient cathedral is open for visitors and an entrance fee applies for tourist visits
• Churchill War Rooms – during World War 2, this was the secret underground headquarters from where then Prime Minister Winston Churchill directed the war. About 15 minutes’ walk from the London Eye and there is an entrance fee to visit.

Of course, there are many more attractions within easy reach of the London Eye. For more planning ideas, check out our guides to spending 1 day in London , 2 days in London , 3 days in London and 6 days in London .

Alternatives to the London Eye

You might be wondering if there are any alternatives to the London Eye. In all honesty, there is no good direct replacement for the London Eye. Certainly there is no other huge observation wheel experience, which offers you views from the bottom to the top of your journey.

There’s also nothing equivalent in the nearby area that would give you such sweeping views up and down the River Thames and of the Houses of Parliament.

However, if you wanted some alternative views of London, then consider the following:

• The Shard . The tallest building in the UK, with an observation deck spanning the 69th and 72nd floors. The Shard just over a mile east of the London Eye, so naturally you don’t get the same views. Instead, you get good views of the Tower of London and City of London. We have visited and can definitely recommend for the nice city views. You need a ticket to visit.
• Sky Garden . Almost directly opposite the Shard on the north side of the river Thames, the Sky Garden is a good free viewing platform on the 43rd floor (booking required). It offers excellent sunset views in particular. However, it is very popular and the free tickets go very fast
• Tate Modern . This free modern art gallery is found in a former power station, opposite St. Paul’s Cathedral on the south bank of the River Thames. It has a viewing platform on the 5th floor which offers good views of the Millenium Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral Dome . This iconic dome is a highlight of the London skyline, and it is open for visitors. At the Golden Gallery level, 85 metres (278ft) above the ground, you get lovely views of the city of London and along the river. An entrance fee applies.

As you can see, there are quite a few locations for getting a view, but in our opinion, the London Eye is well worth the visit!

Where to Stay Near the London Eye

The London Eye is very central, and there are many hotels within easy walking distance of it. We would recommend reading our complete guide to where to stay in London for some tips. However, some nearby hotels we recommend are the following.

These are all within a 10-15 minute walk of the London Eye, and are ordered approximately by budget from low to high.

• Walrus Bar and Hostel – just 8 minutes’ walk from the London Eye, this hostel offers both shared and private accommodation. There’s also a shared kitchen, bar, and free WiFi.
• Point A Hotel London – This budget hotel is a 10-minute walk from the London Eye. We’ve stayed here; the rooms are tiny but clean and it’s a great budget option, with air-conditioned rooms, black out curtains, and free WiFi.
• Park Plaza County Hall – this is a well-priced hotel just 6 minutes’ walk from the London Eye. We’ve stayed here recently and found the rooms comfortable and the staff efficient and friendly. Some of the rooms offer spectacular views of the London Eye, especially at sunset.
• Sea Containers London – found right on the south bank of the River Thames, this 5-star hotel is a 13-minute walk to the London Eye. En-suite air-conditioned rooms are of a good size and some offer river views. There’s also a rooftop bar, on-site restaurant, and spa.
• The Clermont Charing Cross – right next to Charing Cross train station, this well-reviewed 4* hotel is 12 minutes’ walk from the London Eye. En-suite rooms feature free WiFi and air-conditioning as well as Nespresso coffee makers. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar.
• London Marriott Hotel County Hall – it would be hard to find a hotel closer to the London Eye than this Marriott – some of the pods pass within metres of the rooms here (so be sure to draw curtains when you want privacy)! As well as amazing proximity to the London Eye, many rooms allow for lovely views of the Houses of Parliament and a luxurious 5* experience
• The Savoy – this world famous 5* hotel offers true luxury, and it’s just 13 minutes’ walk from the London Eye. En-suite rooms feature marble bathrooms, air conditioning and tea/coffee making facilities. There are also top-rated restaurants on site.

As you can see there are plenty of options! You can check out even more hotels near the London Eye on booking.com here .

London Eye Photography Tips

As a professional photographer I wanted to share some tips for taking photos, both at and of the London Eye. Hopefully these help you get some lovely photos to remember your visit.

Photography from the London Eye

The London Eye offers wonderful photography opportunities across most of central London.

The main challenge you will have as a photographer is that the transparent glass walls of the pods can have reflections in them. To solve this, try to hold the camera lens as close to the glass as possible, which will minimise reflections.

If you want a more advanced solution, there are lens hoods available for phones and cameras which go up against the glass and remove the reflections completely.

In some areas, you will notice that the walls are more curved than in other parts. The curved glass can cause distortions in your images, so ideally try to shoot through the flatter parts of the glass. This may require you to kneel down to the lower parts of the capsules.

In terms of photography opportunities, the Houses of Parliament are quite an iconic sight and are one of the closest landmarks. These can be photographed throughout the rotation, but towards the end of the ride you will be closer to them. If you are looking for a nice selfie or photo of those you are riding with, I’d suggest the Houses of Parliament make a good backdrop.

Normally when taking photos of yourself I’d recommend using a tripod, but these aren’t allowed on the London Eye. So I’d suggest asking someone else on board to take your photo if possible.

If you happen to ride the London Eye when it is getting dark or already dark, then make sure to disable your camera flash if shooting subjects outside the capsule. It will just reflect back from the capsule glass and ruin the photo, and it is not going to have sufficient power to illuminate the world outside anyway!

Where to Photograph the London Eye From

As well as making for a great location to take photographs from, the London Eye itself makes for a photogenic photography subject.

There are a few locations where I would recommend taking photos of the London Eye from.

First, on the bank of the River Thames directly opposite the London Eye, you can get a lovely straight-on image. This is a good location at both sunset and sunrise, as well as at night when the eye is illuminated.

This can work well with long exposure photography as the movement of the Eye can make some nice light trails.

If you want more up close photos of the London Eye, then the best place is likely right next to it. Images of the support structure are also quite interesting, with the leading lines taking your eye naturally along the support cables to the main body of the wheel.

Another good location for photography of the London Eye is Westminster Bridge. This offers a side on view of the Eye, and you can move forwards and backwards across the bridge depending on how much of an angle you want. This can also be a good opportunity to frame the London Eye with a red bus for example, another iconic London sight.

If you plan on taking a River Thames cruise , these all pass by the London Eye and offer great views.

Finally, if you happen to book a nearby hotel to the London Eye, this might also work as a good option for views. Good examples include the rooftop suites of the nearby Park Plaza County Hall and Park Plaza Westminster Bridge . Just be aware that their rooms with London Eye views are priced higher than their other rooms.

Our Experience Visiting the London Eye

Now that you should know everything you need to know to plan your visit to the London Eye, I’m going to briefly share our experiences visiting the London Eye.

We have actually visited the London Eye on a number of occasions, doing both the standard entry and the champagne experience. I will cover both, starting with our most recent standard entry.

Standard Entry Experience

We’ve done the standard entry at the London Eye three times. All these experiences were pretty similar. We’ll share a recent experience in 2022.

We booked online for an 11:15am timeslot on a weekday. We booked on the official site and printed out our tickets at home before our visit to London. It was not very busy and we were allowed to join the line around 11:08am.

When we arrived, there was a fairly short queue, it took us 12 minutes to get to the security point and then five more minutes to go through the photo booth. We boarded at 11:26am.

Our pod had 13 people on board. We also counted the pod after ours, and that had 18 people on board. So the number definitely varies depending on how the queues are moving as the pods don’t stop moving.

The pods themselves, as you can see from the pictures, are very spacious. You never feel crowded and there is plenty of room to move around and for everyone to get a great view. There is also seating in the centre of the pod area.

The Eye rotates counter-clockwise (as you look at it when boarding), so we started rising away from the Houses of Parliament, with good views down the River Thames of landmarks including Charing Cross train station. It’s also fun at this point to look up and see the other pods ascending above you.

Our pod paused a couple of times as we rotated, this normally happens when people with accessibility needs are boarding or disembarking. The pods move very slowly, and the stops are very smooth, so you never feel the need to grasp a handrail or anything!

Our favourite views are as the pod nears the top and starts to descend, as this gives lovely views of the Houses of Parliament, as well as upriver to locations such as the MI6 headquarters, home of James Bond!

We had reasonable weather, although it was fairly overcast. Still, we could easily make out all the nearby landmarks, as well as the Crystal Palace transmitting station (around 6 miles / 10km away).

We took lots of photos as you would imagine, and before you knew it our ride was coming to the end. Near the end of the ride your photo is taken by an automated camera setup.

This is announced clearly prior to it happening, and there are locations marked in the pod for where to stand if you want to be featured in the photo.

Finally, we disembarked from the pod at exactly 11:51am, so our ride was 25 minutes long from boarding to getting off.

We also booked our Champagne Experience online , and printed out our tickets. For the Champagne Experience we booked our timeslot for 4:30pm.

We were a bit worried about being late as we were coming into London by train, but actually arrived quite early, at 4:00pm.

The process for the champagne experience is a little different, as you have to check-in at the special VIP experiences desk. We did this, our names were checked against a list, and we were given the opportunity to go upstairs to wait in the London Eye lounge.

We were also given a 360-degree viewing guide, which came in very handy on the London Eye ride to help us know what we were seeing, and was a nice touch. These are also available for sale in the gift shop.

The London Eye lounge is a first-floor lounge offering nice views of the London Eye as well as drinks menu consisting of soft drinks and alcoholic drinks that you can purchase while you are waiting.

In the lounge we met our host Arnie and we chatted a bit with him. We asked a few questions about the experience, and learnt that it is limited to 18 people per pod although in his experience, on average, there are normally 12 – 15 people. He also shared that he’s ridden the wheel over 1,000 times so we figured he knew what he was doing!

Once the rest of our group arrived, a total of 15 people, Arnie collected his two hampers and led us across from the ticket office area to the fast-track boarding area. The London Eye was not particularly busy on the afternoon we visited, so there were not many people in front of us and we did not have to wait long.

We went through security and the photo booth, then we all boarded. The Champagne Experience is an exclusive event, so you only share the pod with people who have booked the same experience.

Arnie said that occasionally people did turn up with a mix of tickets, and the result was disappointment that they weren’t able to ride together. So when booking tickets, we definitely recommend everyone books the same type of ticket.

Once on board the pod, Arnie welcomed us all on board. He was super friendly and quite funny to boot, and really helped to create a fun and relaxed environment on board. He also got to work pouring Champagne into glasses. He also offered everyone the option to have juice or soda instead if they preferred.

As the London Eye started to rise and folks started to take lots of photos, Arnie also pointed out what we were seeing, and handed out Champagne. He also offered to take photos of everyone, and really went above and beyond to ensure everyone got a great photo.

The weather was wonderful for our ride, with sunshine and beautiful blue skies. We were pleasantly surprised as it had been gray and overcast when we had arrived earlier.

The ride itself lasted just under 30 minutes, but it felt so much shorter. The weather was quite warm when we visited, but thankfully the pods climate control meant it was very comfortable.

At the end of the ride we thanked Arnie for his excellent hosting, and disembarked.

Overall we really enjoyed the Champagne Experience. We hadn’t quite known what to expect, and the combination of the excellent host, relatively small group, and personal attention made it feel really special. The glass of Champagne certainly helped too!

London Eye Tips for Visiting

We have noted a number of tips and pieces of advice throughout the article. I just wanted to list here some of the more important tips so that you can make the most of your visit to the London Eye.

• Book in advance directly online here to save money and for the best availability
• Make sure everyone in your group books the same kind of ticket to ensure you will be able to ride together in the same pod
• If traveling with a child age 3 or younger, they can ride for free but you still need to book them a ticket
• If you plan to visit other attractions in London such as the London Dungeon, Madame Tussauds, or the SEALIFE London Aquarium, you can save money by booking tickets/passes such as the Big City Saver pass
• Remember that the time on your ticket is the time you should be there to join the line. It is NOT your boarding time. So be sure to allow enough time in your itinerary to wait in line and the 30 minutes for the ride itself.
• Be sure to check the security restrictions and to leave your luggage and any restricted items at your hotel to avoid slowdowns and having items confiscated by security.
• There is no commentary or signage on the pods themselves. For those wanting more information about what you are seeing during the ride, you might consider purchasing a viewing wheel from the gift shop before your ride or using a mapping app on your phone
• We recommend booking on a day with a good weather forecast if possible. This will give you the best views and photos from the pods.
• Enjoy yourself and take lots of photos!

Further Reading for Visiting London

That’s it for our complete guide to visiting the London Eye! We hope you found it useful.

We’ve also got a number of other resources to help you plan your trip to London and the UK in general which we think you’ll find useful.

• We have detailed itineraries for  1 day in London ,  2 days in London ,  3 days in London  and  6 days in London
• We have a detailed guide to visiting the Tower of London , another iconic London attraction
• You’ll need somewhere to stay in the city if you’re here for more than a day. See our guide to  where to stay in London  for some suggestions across all budgets.
• If you plan on doing much sightseeing in the city, you will likely save money with a London Pass. See our complete  London Pass review here  to see if this might save you money on sightseeing.
• We have a guide to  getting around London , and a guide to  using the Oyster card in London .
• If you’re flying into one of London’s six airports, see our guide to  getting to London from the airport .
• We have a detailed guide to  what to pack for London , to help you prepare for your trip to London.
• We put together some tips on finding the  best Photography Locations in London
• For the Harry Potter fans amongst you, take a look at our guide to finding  Harry Potter in London
• 8 Things to Do in Kensington , London, in case you wanted to focus more on a specific region of the city
• If you enjoy military museums, take a look at our guide to  London’s best military museums and memorial . Also see our  Winston Churchill in London guide .
• Tips on  spending Two Weeks in the UK , should you want to have London as the start of a bigger adventure
• For budget planning, see our guide to  how much it costs to travel in the UK
• Our experience  taking a full day walking tour of London , in case you like the idea of a fully guided day
• Thoughts on  visiting Stonehenge from London as a day trip
• Other good day trips from London include Oxford and Cambridge. See our guide to  Oxford in a day  as well as  things to do in Cambridge  for ideas.
• Heading further north? We have loads of content on  Scotland , including a  2 Day Edinburgh itinerary , guides to the North Coast 500  and a  2 Day Glasgow itinerary
• How about heading to Paris from London? We have a detailed guide to the  best way to get from London to Paris  to help you plan
• The  Eyewitness Travel Guide to London , which has all sorts of information within, including more itineraries and ideas for your trip
• Rick Steve’s London  guide, the #1 bestseller on Amazon for UK travel guides, and always an excellent source of relevant information

And that’s it! We hope you found our guide to visiting the London Eye helpful, and as always, if you have any questions, just pop them in the comments and we’ll answer them as soon as we can!

So you know: On one of our rides, the company gave us a pair of complimentary standard tickets for the London Eye to experience the standard ride as media. We paid for all of our other London Eye rides, including the Champagne Experience, as well as our transport and accommodation in London.

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There are 12 comments on this post

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Michael Hambly, Canada says

2nd July 2023 at 10:40 pm

What happens if I am late for my allotted time slot? Will they allow me on the next available pod?

Laurence Norah says

3rd July 2023 at 9:34 am

Hi Michael,

If you are a little bit late (15 – 30 minutes) it shouldn’t be a problem. Honestly, unless you are hours late and it’s very busy I’d not forsee any issues, you might have to go to the on-site ticket office to explain but generally they are pretty accommodating in my experience.

Have a great ride and time in London!

Charlotte says

1st November 2022 at 4:23 pm

This guide to the London Eye is very useful. I just have a quick question about sitting down while in the pod. My mother uses a walker and may need to sit all or most of the time, would this be suitable for her? It looks like from your photo there is a bench and they can stop it for those with reduced mobility to get inside. Could you talk more about that and anything we might need to be aware of? Thanks for your assistance!

1st November 2022 at 4:29 pm

Hi Charlotte,

Glad to hear you found the guide useful! So yes, the central bench is available throughout the ride and it offers good views. The windows in the pods are floor to ceiling so you still get a good view from the benches. Most people stand, but even with quite a few people in the pod your mum will still get great views. They absolutely do stop the London Eye for people with reduced mobility to embark and disembark, and they won’t rush her, she can take her time so she feels comfortable.

There’s is also the option for assisted boarding if your mum isn’t able to stand in the queue for a prolonged period of time (this will depend on how busy it is when you visit of course). If you approach a member of the queuing team when you arrive, they will either help you board more quickly (this is what usually happens), or they will allow your mum to wait in a seating area until you finish queuing (this normally only happens if you’re visiting with a larger group or able guests).

I hope this helps, let me know if I can offer any more input, and have a great ride on the London Eye!

1st November 2022 at 6:05 pm

Thanks for the super quick reply – do I need to book a special ticket or anything in advance if we need it to stop for boarding? Or just tell them once there?

We are thinking about just booking the standard tickets, but may pay a little extra for the Champagne experience for the hosted experience and so it is more comfortable for my mom.

1st November 2022 at 8:25 pm

It’s my pleasure 🙂 So you don’t need to book a special ticket for them to stop the wheel for boarding, you can just let them know when you arrive.

That said, if your mum is eligible for a disabled ticket (you can see the criteria here ), then you would be eligible for the free carer ticket. You can see instructions and how to book that here .

Also worth noting that if you do go down the carer route, the hosted champagne experience isn’t something you can do as the carer only gets the standard ticket, if that makes sense. I personally think the hosted experience is really worth it, however if you are eligible for the carer ticket obviously that would be quite a saving.

Let me know if you have any more questions, I am more than happy to help!

Evelyn says

21st September 2022 at 6:35 pm

Awesome. I’m getting ready for my next trip, so I’m looking forward to more posts about London. 😀 Beautiful photos.

22nd September 2022 at 9:30 am

Thanks very much Evelyn!

Ashley Clark says

12th September 2022 at 1:04 am

Hello Laurence,

Great descriptions and tips here. Do you know if/when the London Eye will be closed or hours changed this week or next for the Queen’s funeral and period of mourning?

Thank you! Ashley

12th September 2022 at 9:18 am

Thanks! So currently it looks like the London Eye (along with all the other major London attractions) will be closed on the day of the funeral itself. They have just posted an announcement here . I believe the evening illuminations are also not running. I did reach out to the London Eye, and it should be open all the other days at the normal times.

Have a good time in London. Just be aware if visiting during the funeral that it is likely to be very busy, especially around the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament), and public transport will also be very busy too.

M Houston says

11th September 2022 at 3:52 pm

Really enjoy your content. But there are SO many ads on your site, it is really distracting and difficult to read.

11th September 2022 at 4:01 pm

Thanks for your feedback! I hear you on the ads, they are unfortunately one of the few options we have found that allows us to keep sharing content for free. I hear your feedback though and I have adjusted the frequency down a notch 🙂

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Visiting the London Eye: Tickets & Tips [2024]

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2024

Categories Europe , United Kingdom

Planning to visit the London Eye soon? Check out this comprehensive guide to the London Eye — you’ll also find the best combo and skip-the-line London Eye tickets.

Who hasn’t seen a picture of London and held their breath for a second when looking at this giant wheel? The sheer size of it is already impressive, and it has become one of the landmarks in the iconic London skyline (and a favorite engagement spot!) ever since it opened at the turn of the century. But what is it exactly?

Did you know that the London Eye is not really a huge Ferris wheel in London? It is a “cantilevered observation wheel”, which means it is supported only on one side. It is also the tallest one of its type in Europe, and the 4th highest observation wheel in the world .

Table of Contents

A SHORT INTRODUCTION TO THE LONDON EYE

Also called the Millennium Wheel, the London Eye is the result of a competition that started back in 1993, when Londoners were asked to come up with a new landmark to celebrate the new millennium . The Wheel was the winning design. It finally opened in March 2000, a bit behind schedule, and it quickly became an icon of London and a favorite tourist attraction .

The London Eye has 32 capsules representing each of London’s 32 boroughs. Fun fact: number 13 has been skipped because it is considered bad luck, so the last capsule is number 33!

If you have limited time in London , I highly recommend visiting the London Eye, since it will give you a glimpse of the whole city , and it’s located right next to many of London’s top tourist attractions, making it super easy to fit into your itinerary .

But let’s take a closer look. Let me walk you through the best options to visit it, how to get tickets, and some interesting combos.

BEFORE VISITING THE LONDON EYE

Opening Hours for the London Eye

At the time of writing, the London Eye is open daily from 11 AM to 6 PM . However, opening times tend to vary throughout the year and on special days (like Valentine’s Day or Christmas Eve), so always check the official website before you go. 

The Eye takes 30 minutes to complete a full revolution, so if you’re planning on visiting in the evening, make sure you arrive more than 30 minutes before closing time. 

Lines are almost guaranteed and, in the summer, they can get quite long (you might have to wait for as long as two hours!), so unless you have a fast-track ticket, make sure to arrive with plenty of time. The busiest times tend to be the early afternoon hours (between 11 AM and 3 PM), especially during the school holidays. Lines are shorter right before opening and nearing closing hours, and they are considerably shorter during the winter. 

The London Eye closes for 2 weeks every January for maintenance.

How to get to the London Eye

The London Eye is served by many different transport lines. These are the directions to London Eye.

▶ Tube (metro): The nearest metro station is Waterloo , which is only a 5-minute walk from the London Eye. When exiting the station, follow the signs for the South Bank. Embankment and Charing Cross stations are also close, although on the opposite side of the River Thames. They are about a ten or fifteen-minute walk. 

Another option is Westminster station, which is the one you get off at for the Houses of Parliament. Cross the Westminster Bridge and walk along the river bank for a beautiful stroll. It takes about 7 minutes to get to the London Eye. You can easily plan your journey here .

▶ Buses 211, 77 and 381 will leave you at walking distance from the London Eye.

▶ If you have paid for a sightseeing bus , you can hop off at the London Eye, since most of these buses stop there.

▶ Train : The nearest train station to London Eye is Waterloo (5-minute walk away). Charing Cross is also not far away (10-minute walk). 

▶ Boat : Yes, you can get to the London Eye by boat! There are river buses that serve many areas of London and will leave you right at the London Eye. This can be a good way to beat the traffic and enjoy incredible views. Get off at the London Eye Pier .

THE BEST LONDON EYE TICKETS & TOURS

The London Eye in London is THE most visited paid attraction in the UK – I mean, it’s one of the best things to do in London , so no surprise there. In fact, the London Eye sees 3.5 million visitors per year, so no need to worry about waiting in line at all, you will go right in… Juuuust kidding . Sorry, that was cruel.

Do expect a line to get in . If you haven’t bought a ticket in advance, lines can get excruciatingly long sometimes (with a wait of over 2 hours in the busiest periods). And that is during normal (i.e. pre-Covid) times. Currently, fewer people are allowed in each of the capsules for social distancing reasons, which means the whole thing gets a bit slower than usual.

Normally, but even more so in this scenario, the options below for tickets for London Eye are highly recommended. 

➤ You can buy a London Eye Fast-Track Ticket that will allow you to skip the lines altogether and save some precious time during your visit to London. These tickets are timed, which makes it easier to fit the visit into your London itinerary. Remember the flight on the London Eye lasts 30 minutes.  If your plans change, you can cancel your London Eye entrance ticket up to 24 hours before your timed entrance and get a full refund. Trust me when I say you will want to get a fast-track ticket. Go ahead. You can thank me later. ➥ BOOK YOUR LONDON EYE TICKET HERE

➤ If you want to see some of the main sights in London and finish the day on a high note, this Total London Full-Day Tour with London Eye is a fantastic option. You will get to see London from land, boat, and air, all in one day! This is an all-day tour with a private guide that will take you to some of the most famous sights in London.

The tour includes luxury transportation by coach, a guided private boat trip on the River Thames, and a flight on the London Eye to cap the day! What more could you ask for? ➥ BOOK IT HERE

LONDON EYE BUNDLE TICKETS: LONDON EYE + OTHER LONDON ATTRACTIONS

London has so much to offer and sometimes our time is so limited that the sole task of choosing what to see and what to leave out can be daunting. The following tours will be very useful if you want to include many things in one day without the hassle of planning everything individually. Check them out.

➤ If you fancy a boat ride on the Thames before hopping onto the London Eye, the London Eye River Cruise and Admission to the London Eye is the best option for you. This is an award-winning cruise tour led by expert guides who will tell you the stories of the landmarks in sight as you sail. Top it all up with a visit to the London Eye to crown the day! The tour lasts up to 1.5 hours, it includes commentary in different languages and 24-hour free cancellation. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Sometimes, you don’t feel like following someone else’s schedule, am I right? If this is your case and you’d rather discover London at your own pace, The Big London Ticket: London Eye, Big Bus & River Cruise will be a perfect fit. This tour allows you to enjoy the best of London at your own leisure from the open top of a double-decker bus (hop on and off as many times as you want), enjoy a cruise on the River Thames, and get a panoramic view of the city from the London Eye. It’s all included in the ticket! ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Interested in going a bit deeper and saving a few bucks? This Madame Tussauds, London Eye and SEA Life Combo Ticket offers a great opportunity to enjoy some of the most iconic sights in London from the London Eye, hang out with the Queen and your favorite celebrities at the globally famous Madame Tussauds Museum, and experience underwater life at SEA LIFE London Aquarium. All while saving 40% on tickets. You’re welcome. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN RIDING THE LONDON EYE

Quickly after its opening, the London Eye became one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city (and the country), so much so that it now receives more visitors per year than the Taj Mahal and the Giza Pyramids put together. Crazy, right?

A ride on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes , as it revolves at a relaxed pace so you can take it all in. It is a unique experience that allows you to appreciate London from a completely different perspective. 

Rising at 135 meters (443 ft) and with 360-degree views, rest assured the scenery will leave you with your mouth open. The typical double-decker buses will look like toys from the heights of the Eye.

From inside the capsule, you will have privileged views of some of the most iconic landmarks in London : Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the London Tower and Tower Bridge, and the Gherkin, to name a few. Of course, you’ll get fantastic views over the River Thames.

Visibility will depend on the weather, but they say that with clear skies, when you go on the London Eye you can see as far as Windsor Castle, so don’t forget your camera!

For couples, a spin on the London Eye is a very romantic experience, especially at sunset. It has become a popular spot for engagement propositions. There are options to book private pods , champagne included.

Given its location, the London Eye is a great point to start or finish your day, and explore other top attractions near London Eye such as The London Dungeon, South Bank, Westminster and Big Ben. You can aslo take a walk along the Thames or go on a cruise on the river and enjoy the city from yet another perspective . 

TIPS FOR YOUR LONDON EYE VISIT

Accessibility : The London Eye is fully accessible for people with disabilities and there are special wheelchair slots. Tickets need to be booked in advance and a London Eye admission ticket for the carer is free of charge. Bear in mind that, although the Eye revolves very slowly, it never stops turning, so people have to access the capsules while it is still in motion. 

Visiting with children : This is a great activity for kids . They love the views from up there! I would recommend buying fast-track tickets so they don’t get bored waiting. Remember that you will have to access the capsules while they are still in motion (but don’t worry, it goes very very slowly and people do it all the time).

Phobias : Given its height and the fact that the capsules are completely closed, it is of course not advisable to go if you’re claustrophobic or afraid of heights.

Covid restrictions : At the time of writing, Covid-related restrictions in England have been lifted. However, practicing social distancing and wearing a mask is recommended.

Best time to visit the London Eye : The best time to visit is a clear sunny day . Yeah, I know that’s a long shot in London, but checking the weather forecast before booking your ticket can’t hurt. Maybe it will be your lucky day.

Having said that, summer is the busiest period . If you’re planning to visit during this season, the slots near the opening and closing hours tend to be the least busy. 

If you’re into photography, book a slot for the time right before sunset (the famous golden hour) and you’ll have a blast!

I hope this post gave you all the information on the London Eye that you were looking for. Any doubts or questions? Please leave them in the comments below!

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Visiting the London Eye (Best Tips, Tickets & Tours)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 27, 2023

If you’re thinking about visiting the London Eye then this is the post for you! The London Eye is a tourist attraction that completely lives up to expectations and both your time and cost of the London Eye ride are very much worth the investment.

Let’s get started with a few London Eye facts. It’s the biggest cantilevered observation wheel in the world and is 135 metres high. Introduced at the turn of the millennium, it has since received more than 85 awards recognising its architecture, tourism and engineering achievements.

It is currently the number one paid attraction in the whole of the UK and celebrated two decades at the top in 2020. Located on the vibrant, arty South Bank of the River Thames, it has sparked the construction of many similar attractions in cities across the globe.

To ride the London Eye is to see the world’s most famous Ferris wheel for yourself – and to witness the outstanding views over one of the most exciting and important cities on the planet.

Lesser known, perhaps, is the sheer sense of scale and context your ‘flight’ will give you, of how this collection of ‘villages’ known as London all fits together, as well as how vast the British capital really is.

If you want to join the huge numbers of London Eye visitors (around 3 million per year) by booking your ticket, stay right here.

This guide will take you through all the information on the London Eye you’ll need. Including options when you want to buy tickets for the London Eye and all the other tips and tricks you could wish to know about!

London Eye Tickets – Quick Guide

Why is the london eye a good place to visit, how can i travel to the london eye, how long does it take to go round the london eye, what attractions are near the london eye, how much does it cost to go on the london eye, what’s the best time to go on the london eye, is it safe to go on the london eye, london eye ticket only options, combined tickets for london tourist attractions including the london eye, london passes, how will you visit the london eye, london travel guide & itinerary planner (+ 4 bonus ebooks), visiting the london eye – faqs & tips.

Let’s get started by answering some London Eye frequently asked questions. We cover how to get there, booking for the London Eye, how long the trip takes, what other London attractions are near the London Eye, the best time to go, the cost of the London Eye and more.

The best way to answer this is to think about the name. This big wheel will give you a bird’s eye view over the fabulous city of London, including the River Thames it looms over and landmarks like The Gherkin, St Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, The OXO Tower and the Houses of Parliament. 

You’ll also be able to see the people of London scurrying about beneath you like tiny ants, as they rush towards the West End to catch a show , head into the Underground station or pop into their favourite Oxford Street store – or perhaps the pub – before closing time. 

With London spread out beneath you like a rich and ever-changing tapestry, you’ll get a real sense of both the scale and the importance of the place too. As well as plenty of great selfie opportunities! 

The London Eye is positioned right by the river on the South Bank, and its size makes it easy to spot even from some distance away. To get to it, head for Waterloo , Westminster, Embankment or Charing Cross station. 

Waterloo is the closest, with the Eye being just a five-minute walk away. Charing Cross and Embankment are very close to one another on the northern side of the river, and you can get to the London eye by crossing Hungerford Bridge. If you travel to Westminster, follow the signs for Westminster Pier and you’ll soon spot the big wheel. 

You may be wondering about the London Eye time to go around – how long does it take? Your total London Eye visit time includes half an hour on the wheel, but you’ll need to allow extra for queuing, checking in, embarking and disembarking.

It may also be worth considering the next question when working out how much time to allow…

What other tourist attractions are near the London Eye that you can visit at the same time? Key things to see near the London Eye include the South Bank itself, which is packed with attractive shops, places to eat and drink and outdoor entertainment.

You can also stroll across the river to Westminster, home to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The reflection in the water as you cross the bridge is worth looking out for – and capturing on camera if you can. 

Simple wandering along the riverbank on either side is a pleasant thing to do, and you can always dip into any cafes, shops or pubs that appeal as you pass. If you fancy stretching your legs, you could carry on towards Covent Garden, Soho, Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus – or head to Green Park for a picnic. 

The price to go on the London Eye varies according to how and when you book. The London Eye admission fee is cheaper if you book ahead. For example, at the time of writing (March 2023) the on-the-day standard adult price is from £33.50, but if you book online this starts at £30.50.

It can be more convenient or cost-effective to buy combined or fast track tickets or even a London Pass . The best options are outlined in detail below.   

The best time to visit the London Eye can depend on whether you want to see London by daylight, or illuminated by night. 

What time to go depends on your plans – and whether or not you’ve pre-booked. If not, expect to pay more as well as experiencing long queues! We recommend going for skip the line tickets if you can.

The London Eye has been awarded the ‘ We’re Good to Go ‘ charter mark by VisitEngland , so all the desirable safety measures are in place, including enhanced security checks. 

How to buy London Eye tickets

London Eye official website

• Buy from the official London Eye website, where you can find out about everything in one place. 
•  No refund is offered if you need to cancel – only the ability to change the dates. 

Standard adult fares cost from £30.50 on the official site. 

You can buy non-refundable tickets via this link.

London Eye ticket with fast-track

You can benefit from the lower online ticket price and add the fast-track option if you wish. Full refunds are available for cancellations more than 24 hours in advance. 

A little forward planning is required, though you can cancel up to 24 hours before if needed for a full refund.   

Currently standard adult ticket prices cost from £34 via Get Your Guide. 

You can buy this advance purchase ticket here .

London Sea Life & London Eye ticket

A discount of 10% plus is applied to this combination ticket. Full refunds are also available when you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. 

You need to book ahead, though you can cancel up to 24 hours before if required to receive a full refund.   

Standard adult tickets cost from £45 per person. 

You can buy this Sea Life and London Eye combination ticket here .

London Eye River Cruise + London Eye ticket option

The London Eye River Cruise is a very affordable way to see the city from the water. A full refund is available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. 

Standard adult tickets cost from £13 per person. 

You can buy this river cruise and London Eye combination ticket here .

Madame Tussauds, London Sea Life & London Eye ticket

A discount of around 40% applies to this great value combination ticket. Full refunds are also available when you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. 

Standard adult tickets cost from £60 per person. 

You can buy these Madame Tussaud’s, Sea Life and London Eye combination tickets here .

Shrek’s Adventure & London Eye ticket

This combo ticket is valid for 90 days and saves you about 10% on the prices. A full refund is available if cancelling more than 24 hours in advance. 

You can buy this Shrek’s Adventure and London Eye combination ticket here .

Big Bus, River Cruise & London Eye ticket

See London from water, land and sky with a cruise, Eye and hop-on, hop-off bus ticket. Full refunds are also available when you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. 

You can buy this Big Bus, river cruise and London Eye combination ticket here .

London Dungeon & London Eye ticket

This combo ticket is valid for 3 months and saves you about 10% on the prices. A full refund is available if cancelling more than 24 hours in advance. 

You can buy this London Dungeon and London Eye combination ticket here .

Top 30 sights walking tour & London Eye ticket

Be guided around London on foot to see world-famous landmarks as well as taking a flight on the Eye. Full refunds are available when you cancel more than 24 hours in advance. 

Standard adult tickets cost from £78 per person. 

You can buy this London landmarks walking tour and London Eye combination ticket here .

London passes can be a great way to see this expensive city as they offer entrance to multiple attractions for a set period of time. As they’re from Get Your Guide, you can still cancel up to 24 hours before activation for a full refund. 

A ride on the London Eye is included with some London passes, and they can be bought for various time periods ranging from one to ten days. 

These are among our favourites: to find out more about each, click the link below!

• London pass with travelcard & guidebook
• ‘ More London for less’ 5 attraction pass
• Go City London Explorer pass
• Big City Saver

Read – Ultimate Guide to London tourist passes

We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip on the London Eye. Whether you want to visit the London Eye and Madame Tussauds or another popular place, planning in advance often allows you to visit London attractions for less, and can save you time as well as money.

Enjoy your ‘flight’!

• London Travel Guide – links to everything you need to know to plan your trip
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• What to see and do – Complete London bucket list with guide to all the top sights and attractions & Guide to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• How to purchase tickets for London attractions – Guide to purchasing tickets for the lost popular London attractions & Best London bus tours reviewed
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• Visiting on a budget? Read out budget guide to London with tips to save money when visiting
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The London Eye

The best way to visit the london eye + tickets.

The London Eye is a must-visit attraction for those visiting London. Located on the South Bank of the River Thames, the Eye in London measures 443 feet (135 meters) tall, making it one of the city's most famous sights.

The Eye offers spectacular views of the city and its iconic landmarks. With its unmatched views of Tower Bridge , Big Ben , and St. Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye adds a modern touch to the London skyline.

So, if you're looking for a breath taking view of London, the London Eye is worth a visit.

table of contents

• Buying London Eye Tickets
• Facts About Going To The London Eye
• How To Get To The London Eye
• 10 Facts About The London Eye
• London Eye Combo Attraction Tickets
• Common Questions About The London Eye

Although relatively new to London, the elegant Millennium observation wheel has already established itself as an iconic symbol. No matter if you're a local or simply passing through, take the time to experience London's famous skyline in all its glory.

The London Eye is a great choice for families and children, offering a fun, safe, and educational experience that the whole family can enjoy. We did it ourselves and it is an experience you would want to do over and over again.

Reserve your seats for the most amazing experience. Choose from multiple tickets, tours and combo options that will help you make the best out of your visit.

Tickets to the london eye

There are a couple of ticket options available for visiting the London Eye:

• Standard Ticket: This is the standard admission ticket, which allows you to experience the 30-minute ride and enjoy the views from the capsule.
• Fast-Track Ticket: This ticket allows you to skip the queue and get to the front of the line, saving you time and allowing you to experience the ride more quickly.

We highly recommended purchasing tickets in advance by clicking the button below to avoid long lines and ensure availability.

facts about going to the london eye

Here are some important facts you should know about visiting the London Eye:

• Opening Hours:  The attraction is open all year round from 11:00 to 18:00. However, please note that the opening hours may vary depending on the time of year and special events.
• Pre-booking is highly recommended: Pre-booking your ticket online is recommended to avoid waiting in long lines and ensure availability, especially during peak tourist season.
• Accessibility: The London Eye is accessible for wheelchairs and those with disabilities, with dedicated capsules available.
• Security screening: Visitors will be subject to security screening before boarding the London Eye, and bags and other large items may need to be stored.
• Duration of ride: The London Eye ride lasts approximately 30 minutes.
• Weather conditions: The wheel operates in all weather conditions, except in extreme weather such as high winds, where the ride may be temporarily suspended for safety reasons. See the current weather in London here.
• Time slots:  When purchasing your tickets online, you must book a specific time slot and are advised to arrive 20 minutes before their designated time.
• Dress code: There is no formal dress code for the London Eye, but visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
• Photography: Photography and videography are allowed on the London Eye, making it a great opportunity to capture memorable moments.

How to get to the London Eye

The London Eye can be reached in several ways, including by metro, bus, vehicle, boat and train.

getting here By tube/underground also called Metro

• The closest underground station is  Waterloo  (South Bank) (0.3 miles) which is served by the Bakerloo (brown), Jubilee (grey), Northern (black) and City (turquoise) Lines. It is about a 5-minute walk from the attraction.
• Westminster  (adjacent to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament) underground station is around an 8-minute walk (0.3 miles). It is served by the Circle (yellow), District (green) and Jubilee (grey) Lines.
• Embankment (North Bank of the River Thames) subway station is a 10 to 15-minute walk (0.4 miles). It is served by the Circle (yellow), District (green), Northern (black) and Bakerloo lines (Brown)).
• Charing Cross  (North Bank of the River Thames) is the farthest with a 15-minute walk (1.3 miles). The following tubes stop at this station, the Bakerloo line (brown) and the Northern line (black). Then also an interchange with Charing Cross mainline station.
• You can reach the London Eye by taking the following bus numbers 211, 77, and 381.

Hop-on Hop-off buses

• The London Eye can also be reached by the sightseeing buses which stop a few minutes away.

River Thames transportation

• Waterloo Pier South side of the river Thames (just next to the London Eye).
• Westminster Pier  is almost opposite the above pier on the north side of the River Thames.
• They are served by both commuter and sightseeing boat routes.
• Free parking spaces are available right next to the attraction.
• Various car parks offer parking close by though it is also recommended against driving here due to the congestion charge. The nearest is the Q-Park in Westminster and the Southbank Centre.

10 facts about the london eye

• Previously known as the Millennium Wheel, it was constructed in 1999 specifically as part of the celebrations of the city for the arrival of the new millennium.
• It was purposely built as a tourist attraction , and much like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, it was not meant to be a permanent installation.
• In the same way as the Eiffel Tower in Paris which was built to be one of the main attractions at the Paris World's Fair in 1889, the London Eye was constructed specifically as a tourist attraction.
• Each pod of the London Eye accommodates up to 25 passengers who can walk around the capsule, unlike a typical Ferris wheel that seats 2 to 4 people.
• Each of the 32 boroughs of the city is represented by one capsule , and they are numbered from one to 33. Due to superstition, capsule 13 does not exist.
• Upon its construction, it was the world's tallest Ferris wheel. It was surpassed in 2006 by the Star of Nanchang, in Nanchang, China and later by others.
• Over 3.5 million visitors visit the attraction every year, making it the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom and remained popular ever since. Only two years after it began operations, in July 2002, it was granted permanent status.
• It is so popular that it has been used for films and TV stations including the Harry Potter films. Many couples have got married on board one of the capsules. 
• Once on the highest point weather permitting it offers views up to 25 miles (40.2 kilometres) in all directions. On a clear day, Windsor Castle is visible.
• During the New Year's Eve celebrations in London, fireworks are set off from the London Eye as part of the festivities.

how many days in london?

There is so much to discover in London and its endless wonders can make getting to know it a challenge! Are you unsure how many days you will need? To ensure you make the most of your time exploring this dynamic city, we've developed multiple itineraries for your planning.

1 Day | 2 Days | 3 Days | 4 Days | 5 Days | 6 Days | 7 Days | 10 Days | 4 Day Christmas Itinerary  | Trip To London in December

london eye combo attraction tickets

Close to the London Eye are several other attraction to where you can purchase a combo ticket. Below are four combo ticket options that can help you save money and combine multiple attractions such as Shrek's Adventure, Madame Tussauds and Sea Life. in one ticket.

Madame Tussauds, London Eye & SEA LIFE Combo Ticket

A single pass gives you 40% off three of London's most renowned sights. The London Eye offers 360° rotating views of the city, as well as Madame Tussauds and Sea Life. Once activated, the card is valid for three months.

Book Your Combo Ticket Here

DreamWorks Shrek's Adventure and London Eye: Combo Ticket

Take advantage of 10% savings on two fantastic family adventure tickets valid for 90 days. Meet Shrek, Donkey, and other DreamWorks characters. Get a bird's eye view of London by riding the iconic London Eye.

Book Your Combo Ticket

London Dungeon, London Eye, & Madame Tussauds Combo

With this combination entry ticket save money to three iconic attractions you can see the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, and the London Dungeon. Enjoy the flexibility of up to 90 days to visit.

Buy Your Tickets From Here

London Eye, Big Bus and Thames River Cruise

A hop-on hop-off bus tour allows you to tour the city at your own pace as you see London's most famous sights and monuments. A 360-degree view of London can be enjoyed from the London Eye before you embark on a river cruise along the Thames.

Book Your Tour Now

map of the london eye

hotels near the london eye

Since London Eye is in the centre of London, there are plenty of hotels that surround this landmark. Below are some hotels where to stay near the London Eye.

• London Marriott Hotel County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road  - 5-Star Hotel
• Corinthia London, Westminster Borough  - 5-Star Hotel
• Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London  - 4-Star Hotel
• The Wellington Hotel  - 3-Star Hotel

To check out more hotels, we have a dedicated page just for hotels near the London Eye ! If you would like to check out more recommended neighbourhoods where to stay in London , check out our in-depth guide.

To conclude our guide, the London Eye is a must-visit attraction for those visiting London apart from the other variety of things to do in the capital city.

You will not miss admiring the breath-taking panoramic views of the city, including several famous landmarks such as the Tower of London , Big Ben, Westminster Abbey , and the River Thames. With its convenient location on the South Bank of the Thames, easy accessibility, and well-designed capsules, it provides a unique and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local, the London Eye is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of one of the world's most iconic cities.

common questions about the london eye

What is the London Eye?

It is a cantilevered revolving observation wheel, also called a Ferris wheel.

What are the opening times of the London Eye?

The opening hours of the London Eye are 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. It is always closed on Christmas day and during the annual maintenance.

How long is the London Eye ride?

30 minutes is the standard ride time.

Do you need to buy tickets in advance for the London Eye?

Tickets must be  purchased in advance  to ensure that you will be able to visit the attraction on the day you have planned.

Where is the London Eye?

It is located at the Jubilee Gardens on the South Bank of the River Thames.

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom.

How long/tall is the London Eye?

It measures 443 feet (135 meters) tall.

How do I get to the London Eye by bus?

To come by bus, you can catch bus numbers 211, 77 and 381.

What Tube line is the London Eye on?

The closest metro station is Waterloo, then slightly further away is Westminster Station, then Embankment Station and Charing Cross Station.

How do you get to the London Eye?

Several London Underground stations are within easy walking distance, including Waterloo, Embankment, Charing Cross, and Westminster.

Waterloo station is the closest, just a 5 minutes walk. Follow the signs to the South Bank as you exit the station.

Is London Eye worth it?

This is one of the best things to do in London. This popular tourist attraction offers a distinctive experience that has sparked a global renaissance in Ferris wheel building.

Which zone is the London Eye?

The attraction is in zone 1.

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photo and website sources

• View from London Eye - Image by Noel from Pixabay
• Facts About The London Eye

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The   London Eye   was conceived and designed by David Marks and Julia Barfield to celebrate the millennium, using a design that represents the turning of the century. It was initially erected as a temporary structure but has been so popular it remains today, and likely will for many more years to come. Sir Richard Rogers sums up the   London Eye   like this

❝ The Eye has done for London what the Eiffel Tower did for Paris, which is to give it a symbol and to let people climb above the city and look back down on it. Not just specialists or rich people, but everybody. That’s the beauty of it: it is public and accessible, and it is in a great position in the heart of London. ❞ – Sir Richard Rogers  

Want to save this for later? Click the Pinterest button on the left for a pinnable image!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our full disclosure policy here .

It took seven years and a team of hundreds of people from five European countries to complete the vision of the designers. Once it was built it then took over a week to lift the Eye upright from a horizontal position across the Thames using a procedure previously only attempted in oil-rigging operations.

The 30-minute revolution takes passengers on a slow, gentle ride up and around with great views of the whole city that even those who hate heights might not find so hard to handle. Each of the 32 pod-like capsules can hold 25 people, is air-conditioned, and has benches for seating.

Because the capsules are secured on the outside of the wheel ( rather than hanging from it, as they would be on Ferris Wheel ) the views through the large glass windows are completely unobstructed. The capsules are kept level by a motorized motion stability system so even with many people walking around in them they are safe, stable, and don’t really feel like they are moving – except you can see that you are.

The wheel is in constant motion, revolving at a quarter of the average walking speed which enables you to walk straight on and off the moving capsules. This feature helps keep the lines   (which can get quite long, especially in the summer ) moving at a reasonable pace. For additional safety, each of the capsules is in touch with the crew on the ground via cameras and radio links. 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE LONDON EYE

Once you’ve boarded your pod, the doors slide shut as you start to ascend and you begin to see more and more of London revealed to you. Once at the top you can see out 25 miles (40 km) on a clear day!

One of the best things about the London Eye is that you don’t just pop out at the top and take in the view. The view is slowly revealed to you as you climb higher and higher. So, for the first ten minutes, you are having more and more of London revealed beneath you. The highlight of the ride is the ten-minutes at the top where the views are the most expansive.

Inside the pods are tablets to give you interactive information about the buildings and landmarks you can see. There are so many things to do, it can be difficult to decide which way to look as London unfolds beneath your feet. This makes the  London Eye  is an excellent option to give you a bird’s-eye view introduction to the city. Definitely, make sure your camera is charged and ready to go!

LANDMARK SPOTTING

Some landmarks are easy to spot and close to the Eye, such as the Houses of Parliament. But can you spot those a bit further out? Battersea Power Station, Wembley Stadium and the O2 arena (millennium dome) are all easy to spot on a clear day.

With good visibility, you can spy some even further out landmarks. To the south you can see North Down Hills, the east brings views of the  Queen Elizabeth II Bridge  and  to the west is  Windsor Castle .

4D EXPERIENCE

Included in your entrance ticket is access to the London Eye 4D Cinema Experience. Using 3D aerial footage of London combined with other effects to tell the story of a little girl visiting London.

The girl wants to see London as the birds can and you experience her imagining what that would be like. The film is in 3D with excellent effects, but the wow factor comes from the tangible effects used in the cinema. So when it snows in the film, it snows in the cinema, when it’s windy, you feel the wind and so on.

The film is only four-minutes long, but as a free add-on to your London Eye ticket is well worth your time to experience.

THE HIGH LIFE

A ride on the London Eye is a fantastic experience, but you can make it even more special. The Eye has several options for upgrading your ride for a special occasion or just as a treat.

These include access to the Eye Lounge where you can relax with a drink and watch the Eye glide past. Maybe enjoying your ride on the Eye with a glass of champagne in hand. Perhaps enjoy your ride whilst have a wine, champagne or chocolate tasting experience.

For the ultimate indulgence, you can even have an entire pod reserved just for you and your party.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE LONDON EYE

Information last updated November 2019

HOW TO GET THERE

The London Eye can be found at Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB .

The nearest tube stations are Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee Lines) and Waterloo (Waterloo and City, Northern, Bakerloo and Jubilee lines). Waterloo is also served by South Western Railway. Both stations are a five to ten-minute walk from the London Eye.

There is a riverboat stop right at the Eye (RB1 and RB1X services). The pier is also served by tourist riverboat services such as City Cruises  and Thames Clippers .

Parking is available five-minutes walk away at Waterloo Car Park . Parking is £7 for 2 hours which should be enough for visiting the London Eye. Parking for 12 hours is £15 if you want to explore more of the local area.

HELPFUL LINK:

• If you need an app that will navigate you around whether walking, driving or using public transport and even works offline then click for a guide about   how to use Here WeGo .

OPENING HOURS

Opening hours are 1100-1800 weekdays and 1000-2030 at weekends. The Eye is closed on the 25th December and for the 2nd and 3rd weeks in January for its annual maintenance. Opening hours can vary, so please check the London Eye Opening Times  for the latest information.

The 3D experience closes 15 minutes prior to the London Eyes closing time.

As all of the attraction is indoors, any time of year is a good time to visit and it could be a good place to visit on a rainy or cold day. The only bad times are if visibility is reduced as you won’t see so far into the distance. However, there are plenty of sights in the vicinity to view. We would recommend you allow at least two hours to fully enjoy the Eye as well as the 4D experience.

HOW TO BUY TICKETS & SAVE MONEY ON ADMISSION

Basic admission prices are £30 for 16 years old and over, £24 for children 3-15 years, £16 for students and free for under 3s. You can save up to 13% by booking online in advance.

TOP TIP: Book family tickets if visiting with children to save more than purchasing standard tickets.

Fast Track entry costs £40 for 16 years old and over, £34 for children 3-15 years and free for under 3s. You can save £3 for adults and £2 for children by booking online in advance.

For the ultimate experience, you can add luxuries like a glass of champagne, wine or chocolate tasting or even your own private capsule by booking a London Eye VIP Experience .

You can save more by combining entry to the London Eye with up to four other attractions with the London Eye Combination Tickets . The other attractions are Madame Tussauds , London Eye River Cruise , Sea Life London , Shrek’s Adventure , Big Bus Tour and The London Dungeon .

The London Eye is also on the  London Explorer Pass  which allows you to choose specific attractions in bundles of 3, 5 or 7 and save up to 40%. Passes are valid for 30 days from first use, so there is no need to rush to use your credits.

ACCESSIBILITY

The London Eye is fully accessible. Health and Safety requirements limit 2 wheelchairs to each capsule and 8 on the whole attraction at any one time. Booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended.

For full accessibility details please visit the London Eye Accessibility page.

IS THE LONDON EYE WORTH THE VISIT?

As the only observation wheel of its type and with its incredible views across London, the London Eye is a “hard to miss” attraction if visiting the UK capital. It’s hard to beat for what it offers and is enjoyed by most visitors.

However, its popularity has lead to very expensive prices for what is a 30-minute ride. And the last ten-minutes you see less and less as you descend back to earth.

If money is no object, it’s a great attraction with wonderful views, but there are cheaper ways to see views across London, including The Monument  and  Tower Bridge , or further east, the Emirates Air Line .

To see London from even higher up, The Shard has an equally expensive viewing platform.

Finally, the Tate Modern and Sky Garden offer impressive views and are free to visit.

See what others think of this attraction on Trip Advisor .

ADD TO YOUR LONDON ITINERARY

“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life” said Samuel Johnson, so it’s no surprise that there are a plethora of things to do in the UK’s capital city. Here are a few choice selections to whet your appetite.

IN THE AREA

• More than 3,000 forms of marine life ( including sharks! ) are housed over three floors in the former County Hall which makes  Sea Life London Aquarium  one of Europe’s largest aquariums. It’s divided into 14 zones such as Reefs and Corals, and the Indian Ocean exhibits. Kids no doubt will love a visit here. 
• Hidden away in the vaults beneath London Bridge railway station, the  London Dungeon  features grisly stories and scenes of some of the most horrific events in British history. From the Great Fire of London, tales of Jack the Ripper, to the Great Plague – it’s all there in great gory detail. 
• Visit the final resting place of kings, queens, writers, and scientists at Westminster Abbey , and then enjoy the neo-Gothic architecture of the Palace of Westminster while learning all about the parliamentary system of government.
• Explore the Churchill War Rooms , the actual rooms where Churchill and his chiefs of staff formulated strategy for the defence of the UK during World War II.
• Continue learning about World War II history, as well as other conflicts through history, at the Imperial War Museum .

 RELATED ATTRACTIONS IN LONDON

• Nearby Tower Bridge offers wonderful views of the city, including straight down to the road and river below through the glass floor!
• Purchase the combination ticket for Tower Bridge and the Monument to the Great Fire and enjoy more great views of London from the top of the Monument (after you’ve climbed the 311 stairs!) and learn about the Great Fire of 1666.
• The Shard is the tallest building in the UK, get a birds-eye view of London from its 243m (800 ft) high viewing platform.
• Stand in two hemispheres at once on the Prime Meridian in the Meridian Courtyard, do a little star gazing in the Royal Observatory , learn about tales of exploration and endeavour at the National Maritime Museum , and take in a unique view of London from the hillside park. All this, and even more, is waiting to be discovered at Maritime Greenwich .

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO LONDON

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

These are a few tours we would recommend for your trip to London.

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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London Eye Visitor Guide — How to Visit the Iconic Ferris Wheel in London

By: Author Emily

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

Towering over 400 feet above the River Thames, the London Eye Ferris wheel is an unmissable landmark in Central London. Step inside the Ferris wheel and you’ll be treated to sweeping 360-degree views of the United Kingdom’s capital city. Look out onto Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Shard and more from inside an enclosed glass capsule.

Ready to climb aboard? Whether you’re looking for the cheapest ticket or something to do nearby, this post will help you make the most of your visit to the London Eye.

In this Post

Here’s what we’re covering in this post. We invite you to read the full guide or jump ahead to the section you’re most interested in.

About the London Eye

London eye tickets & prices.

• What Can You See from the London Eye

Plan Your Visit

London eye with kids, personal experience & review.

The London Eye is a Ferris wheel on the south bank of the River Thames in London, England. It was built as a landmark to celebrate the new millennium and quickly became an icon of the UK capital. The London Eye cost over £70 million to build, but now welcomes nearly 3.5 million visitors every year.

When it opened in 2000, the London Eye was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world. Standing at 443-feet, the London Eye is currently the 5th tallest Ferris wheel in the world (having been just bumped down another spot with the opening of Ain Dubai Ferris wheel in 2021). The London Eye remains the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe.

There are 32 glass capsules on the London Eye; each capsule represents one of the 32 boroughs of London. Each capsule holds 25 passengers. Some quick math shows that roughly 800 passengers can ride the Ferris wheel at a time.

It takes about 30 minutes to ride London Eye around one time. The Ferris wheel moves continuously at about 0.6 miles per hour and does not stop for boarding. Passengers board the capsules from a platform as it slowly moves past the lowest point.

Ready to ride? The only thing standing between you and London’s favorite Ferris wheel is a ticket. There’s a variety of ticket options for the London Eye, and the one that’s right for you will depend mostly on how much you want to spend and how long you want to wait.

London Eye Ticket Options

There are two basic ticket options for the London Eye: Standard and Fast Track.

A standard ticket for the London Eye includes one rotation on the Ferris wheel in a shared capsule with up to 24 other passengers. Each standard ticket is for a specific date and time. That time represents when you should enter the queue, but it does not guarantee entry at that time. Standard ticket holders will need to wait in the full queue to board.

With a Fast Track ticket for the London Eye, you can skip most of the standard queue and board the Ferris wheel faster. The Fast Track ticket also includes one rotation on the Ferris wheel in a shared capsule. Fast Track tickets are more expensive and limited in their distribution. This is to ensure the wait is kept low for Fast Track ticket holders.

Fast Track tickets are also for a specific date and time. However, there is a “Flexi Fast Track Ticket” option which is even more expensive, but can be used any day or time.

Where to Buy Tickets

You can purchase tickets for the London Eye online in advance or at the attraction on the day of your visit.

You can purchase your ticket online from the official London Eye website here . When you purchase online, you’ll receive a digital ticket which can be scanned from your mobile device.

There are a few benefits to purchasing tickets online in advance. In some cases, buying online in advance can save you money. You used to be able to guarantee saving a few bucks by purchasing 7 days in advance, but that’s no longer the case. Now, you can only save by purchasing online in advance during the off season (which excludes the summer months).

Some promotions are only available online. Family tickets and the Flexi Fast Track Ticket are only available online and cannot be purchased on site.

Buying online will also guarantee entry. Fast Track tickets scan sell out during the day and in some extreme cases, all ticket sales may be halted. For example, in July 2022, extreme heat halted new ticket sales and only existing ticket holders could ride the attraction.

You can also buy tickets for the London Eye at the attraction itself. There is a ticket office with self-service kiosks located across from the Ferris wheel entrance. From the kiosks, you can purchase Standard or Fast Track tickets if available. You will receive a printed ticket with a barcode to scan when you enter the queue.

Whether you purchase your ticket online or on site, you will need to select a specific date and time for your visit (unless you purchase the Flexi Fast Track which doesn’t require a time).

How Much Does it Cost to Ride the London Eye

London Eye ticket prices vary based on the ticket type, when you visit and how you book your ticket.

Here’s a breakdown of current ticket prices as of April 2023.

• Standard Ticket — Purchased in advance online: £30.50 to £38*
• Standard Ticket — Purchased on site on the day of the visit: £40
• Fast Track Ticket — Purchased in advance online:   £53 to £55*
• Fast Track Ticket — Purchased on site on the day of the visit: £55
• Flexi Fast Track Ticket — Purchased in advance online: £58

*Reduced online advance ticket prices are only available on certain off-peak days.

How to Save Money on London Eye Tickets

There are a few different ways to save money on London Eye tickets. Below are a few ways to save money while booking through the official ticket office. You may also find discounts and offers through third-party web sites and travel agencies. I can’t verify the legitimacy of all these offers, so I won’t be promoting those in this post.

• Advance Tickets : If you’re visiting outside of peak summer months, you can save a few pounds on both Standard and Fast Track tickets if you purchase your ticket online in advance.
• Arrive Early : If you don’t want to pay extra for Fast Track and also don’t want to wait in long lines, plan to visit the London Eye early. If you arrive within the first hour or two of opening, especially on a weekday, the standard queue is not usually that long.
• Family Tickets : If you have at least two children and one adult traveling together, you can purchase discounted family tickets for £28 per person. Family tickets are only available online for certain weekdays.
• Combo Tickets : If you plan to visit other London attractions like a River Cruise, Madame Tussauds and/or SEA LIFE Aquarium, you can save when you purchase tickets together in a bundle. You can purchase combo tickets here .

VIP Experiences

Take your London Eye visit up a notch with one of these VIP Experiences. Some of these experiences are only a few pounds more than Fast Track tickets alone and include some added perks.

The Champagne Experience and Pub Pod are reasonably priced experiences and great options for couples and adult friend groups.

The Champagne Experience includes Fast Track entry, one rotation around the wheel and a glass of Champagne onboard inside a standard capsule. This experience costs £58 – £60 per person.

The Pub Pod is a special capsule that has been elaborately decorated as an English pub. Pub Pod tickets cost £65 per person and include Fast Track entry, one rotation around the wheel and up to two alcoholic beverages per person (soft drinks are also available).

NOTE: As of April 2023, the pub pod experience is temporarily suspended and has been replaced with a special Coronation Capsule. 

For a more elaborate splurge, you can reserve an entire pod on the London Eye. For £550, you can reserve the Cupid’s Pod. This experience includes a private pod with priority boarding, bottle of Champagne, box of chocolates and one rotation around the wheel. For £675, you can reserve a private pod for up to 25 guests which includes priority boarding and one rotation around the wheel.

You can book VIP experiences here .

What can you see from the London Eye

From inside the clear capsule at the top of the London Eye, you can see for miles in all directions. On a clear day, the official website says you can see as far as Windsor Castle (20 miles away as the crow flies). We weren’t that lucky, but you can see a lot of things — pretty much every major landmark in Central London and beyond that isn’t otherwise blocked by a building or object.

Some of the closest landmarks include Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Jubilee Garden. You can spot Buckingham Palace and the sprawling treetops of the city’s prominent parks, including St. James’s Park, Hyde Park and Regent’s Park.

Look further down the snaking River Thames and you’ll see some of the famous bridges like Westminster Bridge, Hungerford Bridge, Waterloo Bridge and even Tower Bridge at a distance. Some of the city’s most famous buildings, like the Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Tate Modern, can all be seen from the top of the London Eye.

The London Eye is extremely popular and understandably so. It’s a really fun attraction with great views, but it’s also just really easy to visit. With just a bit of planning, you can work the London Eye into just about any London itinerary.

In this section we’ll go over some of the details for planning your visit to the London Eye.

Best Time to Visit the London Eye

The London Eye is open almost every day of the year. It is only closed on Christmas Day (December 25) and for a short period of time in January for annual maintenance. The maintenance closure is typically for about two weeks, so be sure to check the opening hours page if you plan to visit in January.

Like most tourist attractions, the most popular time to visit the London Eye is in the summer and weekends. To avoid large crowds, avoid these time periods. Spring and Fall are good times to visit London and the eye because you can snag advance discount tickets and crowds will be a bit lighter.

The London Eye is comfortable to visit anytime of the year, though, as the capsules are temperature controlled. However, do note that extreme weather conditions can halt ticket sales and sometimes suspend service.

The London Eye is typically open weekdays from 11 AM – 6 PM and weekends (Saturday & Sunday) from 10 AM to 8:30 PM. This is notable because it means you can’t always ride the London Eye at night.

There’s rarely a bad time to visit the London Eye and you can fit it into most any visit. If anything, we’d recommend riding the London Eye early in your trip. It’s a great way to get a peek of what the city has to offer and build some excitement to see more of it up close throughout your trip.

How Long Does the London Eye Take

A ticket to ride the London Eye will get you one rotation around the massive Ferris wheel. That one rotation around the London Eye takes about 30 minutes.

In addition to the time you spend on the Ferris wheel, you also must account for time spent buying tickets (if you didn’t buy online in advance) and waiting in the queue to board. The official London Eye website says to expect 45 minute waits for Standard ticket entry and 20 minutes for Fast Track entry. These waits can vary based on the day and time of your visit.

To better help plan your day, we suggest buying tickets online in advance. Regardless of the ticket type you choose, you’ll need to select a date and time for your ticket. Plan to enter the queue 15 minutes before you scheduled ride time.

As a generous assessment, budget 1.5 – 2 hours total for a visit to the London Eye.

How to Get to the London Eye

The London Eye is located on the south bank of the River Thames in London. It’s easily accessible from many places in the city via public transportation.

If you’re taking the London Underground subway, there are several stations near the London Eye.

• Westminster Station: Serves the Circle, District or Jubilee lines
• Waterloo Station: Serves the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern or Waterloo & City lines
• Embankment Station: Serves the Bakerloo, Circle, District, Northern lines

There are also several buses that stop nearby. The closest bus stop is on the south bank side of Westminster Bridge which services the 12, 148, 159, 211, 453 and N109 bus routes. If you need to the take the bus, we recommend using Google Maps for specific route instructions.

You can even get to the London Eye by boat. Uber Boat service, which operates between 24 piers along the Thames, stops directly in front of the London Eye. If you’re coming from a location along the river, be sure to check the boat route and see if it works for you. We haven’t done this specific boat, but we love any excuse to commute via boat.

You can also walk to the London Eye from some of the other famous attractions nearby. The London Eye is less than one mile from Big Ben, Covent Garden, St James’s Park and Tate Modern, among other popular starting points.

Food and Drinks

Food and drinks are not allowed on the London Eye Ferris wheel. You cannot bring food or drinks (other than bottled water) aboard the London Eye, nor can you purchase food or drinks on the Ferris wheel itself.

The exception to this rule, of course, is the Champagne Experience and Pub Pod. Both of these experiences include beverages served on board.

If you are looking for food and drinks before or after your spin on the wheel, there are a few nearby options. The London Eye gift shop across from the wheel sells a limited selection of bottled beverages and packaged snacks. There’s also several food trucks, pubs and restaurants on the South Bank along the river to the east.

Restrooms, which include baby changing tables, are available inside the London Eye ticket office. There are no restrooms inside the London Eye Ferris wheel capsules themselves.

Things to do Near the London Eye

The London Eye is in the heart of Central London. Nearly everything there is to see and do in London is just a bus, train or walk away from the London Eye. But let’s narrow that down a bit.

If it’s your first day in London — ever or just this trip — we suggest hitting the streets and taking a walking tour of London on your first day. Our perfect itinerary would look something like this.

• Start on the South Bank near Gabriel’s Pier and Bernie Spain Gardens (or even Borough Market if you were very ambitious)
• Take the Queen’s Walk, a walkway along the South Bank, past Waterloo Bridge and Hungerford Bridges. Stop for a pint, halloumi wrap or scoop of ice cream at one of the many vendors and restaurants along the way.
• If you have little ones, take some time to play at Jubilee Park
• Ride the London Eye (duh!)
• Cross Westminster Bridge past Big Ben
• Explore St James’s Park as you walk toward Buckingham Palace, and then cut through Green Park
• If you’re really ambitious, continue on to SoHo and get a drink and dinner in Carnaby

The London Eye is one of our favorite things to do in London with kids . It is a great family attraction because it’s equally fun for kids and adults. Children of all ages can ride the London Eye at all times, as long as they have a ticket. Kids 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult over 18.

The London Eye is very safe. The ride capsules are fully enclosed, so there’s no risk of dropped toys or stuck fingers. They’re also quite spacious, so there is room for them to walk around freely and places to sit if they need a break.

Most children will also really enjoy the London Eye. If they’ve been on a Ferris wheel before, the idea of riding a giant one is usually pretty exciting. A fun activity is to ask them to find the ways that the London Eye is different than other Ferris wheels they’ve been on. (Like the fact that it’s only supported on one side, the capsules are enclosed, or it moves much slower.)

The London Eye is not inherently scary and doesn’t move fast. It is really tall though, and that can be overwhelming for some young children (and some adults, honestly). The capsules are all glass so there is no escaping the height factor except for closing your eye.

At the tender age of almost two, our little one is scared of everyone and everything. It did take them a minute to get used to being in a capsule with so many strangers and the continuous movement of the Ferris wheel. They came around before we were halfway up and really enjoyed it.

The other thing to note about visiting with kids is that the attraction is long. A spin around the London Eye takes 30 minutes. That can feel like eternity for a toddler, especially if they are not enjoying it. Our toddler made it for about 25 minutes before getting too antsy.

Kids Ticket Prices

The biggest downside to the London Eye with kids is that it is expensive. Fortunately, there are a few ways to save some money if you’re riding as a family.

Children ages 3 – 15 will benefit from reduced children’s ticket prices for both Standard and Fast Track tickets. Children under three can ride the London Eye for free, but they still need a ticket so don’t forget to add it to your order.

There’s also a special Family Standard Ticket option available. If you buy at least one adult ticket and two children’s tickets, you can buy them together for £28 each. That’s up to £10 off each adult ticket and £6 off each child ticket. This package is only available online and for certain weekdays, so be sure to look for it before you book. I found the available days to be random and very limited.

Children are allowed inside both the Pub Pod and Champagne experience, but will be provided soft drinks. There is no reduced children’s pricing for these experiences, but young children under three can still ride this experiences for free

Kid-Friendly Activities Nearby

It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon or evening with the family on the South Bank. There’s plenty of kid-friendly fun within walking distance. If your kids are anything like ours, they’ll be begging to stay longer and then will immediately pass out when their head hits the pillow.

Right next to the London Eye is Jubilee Park, home to London’s (unofficial) best playground. It’s a big playground with tons of fun equipment. There are ships to swing on, logs to climb over and slides to rush down. All with a great view of the London Eye.

Continue on the Queen’s Walk east and you can’t not find fun things to do. There are street performers, restaurants and food trucks galore, a pop-up book shop and even a skate park.

Another highlight is the Golden Carousel, located just east of Jubilee Park. It’s only £3 a person and the ride is pretty long. It’s surprisingly fast and there are no seatbelts, so hold on tight. If you’re riding with a little one, there are some longer horses that are designed for two people to ride together.

What family night out is complete without ice cream? A popular stop is Snog Frozen Yogurt. It’s hard to miss this popular dessert spot because it’s built inside of a hot pink, double-decker bus. The kids will get a kick out of the upper level seating and the parents will love it for the people watching.

If you’re walking further on the Queen’s Walk, head all the way to the Sweet Spot. Here you’ll find hand-dipped ice cream and more sweet treats like churros, mini donuts and waffles. There’s another park and even more great dining options in the Gabriel’s Wharf area, too.

We went to London numerous times as adults without riding the London Eye. It always just felt a little too expensive when there were so many other things we wanted to see and do in London. We finally took a ride on the wheel when came to London with our toddler for the first time. Sometimes you just need a push.

We had the best time! Now that I know about the Pub Pod and Champagne Experience which are only a few pounds more than Fast Track tickets and come with drinks, I’d totally prioritize this as an adult/couple activity in the future. I honestly would have brought our kiddo to the Pub Pod because it looked so cute, but I didn’t know about it until writing this post.

The London Eye ride vehicles are quite large. Each capsule fits 25 people, and that’s the perfect amount. It didn’t feel crowded and there was plenty of room to move around. There is bench seating in the center of each capsule. There was always room to sit because most people were standing.

The best views are from the front of the capsule, opposite the door. That area was always the most crowded. People in our capsule were good about moving around though, so everyone had a chance to see and take photos from all areas.

The views from the London Eye are great — specifically the views of Big Ben and Parliament which steal the show at this angle. It’s definitely the best way to see the city if you’re traveling with children, because you get views and an activity in one.

If you’re looking for other great views of London, the Shard and Sky Garden are both great options. These two buildings have similar views, which include a great view of Tower Bridge. If you’re interested in views with a meal, go to Sky Garden (make reservations in advance). For views and a glass of champagne, we’d recommend the Shard.

View from the Sky Garden Observation Deck

We loved our trip around the London Eye, but what we enjoyed most was discovering the broader South Bank area. The Queen’s Walk wasn’t something we’d ever done before, but we loved it so much. We stayed at Bankside Hotel, located just past Gabriel’s Pier, so we ended up making this walk several more times during our trip. It was great every time.

Closing Thoughts

I still think the London Eye is expensive, but I can at least say now that I think it’s worth it. If you pair an expensive ride on the London Eye with a fairly inexpensive rest of the day on the South Bank, I think it balances out.

The London Eye and South Bank is such a great way to start a trip to London. We flew Business Class on British Airways from New York to London, but our little one still didn’t sleep and we arrived exhausted. The Ferris wheel was perfect because it was really fun, but also very low energy.

I definitely loved it, but I also wouldn’t necessarily call it a “must do”.  London has so much to offer and there are plenty of reasons to skip the London Eye. It might not be right for travelers who only have a short visit or are on a tight budget. You can still have a great trip without a spin on the London Eye.

If you have a trip to London planned, will you be riding the London Eye? If you’ve ridden the London Eye, did you do it on your first visit or a subsequent trip like us? Let us know in the comments!

More From This Trip

• British Airways Business Class Review – 777 from JFK to LHR
• London Travel Guide
• Things to do in London with Kids – Family Travel Guide + Tips
• How to Use the London Underground – A Beginner’s Guide to the Tube
• Bankside Hotel London Review
• London Eye Visitor Guide – How to Visit the Iconic Ferris Wheel in London
• Stonehenge Visitor Guide + Inner Circle Tour Review
• Little Venice London Boat Ride Guide & Review
• Visiting London Transport Museum
• Complete Guide to Big Ben in London
• Borough Market Visitor Guide
• Best Views of Paris that Aren’t the Eiffel Tower
• Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris – A Complete Guide
• Walking in Paris – 5 perfect walks through Paris with maps
• Paris with Kids – Planning Guide, Things To Do & Tips
• Montparnasse Tower Visitor Guide + Tips
• Amsterdam with Kids – Planning Guide, Things To Do & Sample Itinerary

Visiting The London Eye – Tickets, Tours & FAQs

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: May 1, 2023

• Everything you need to know to plan and book your visit to the London Eye

Visiting the London Eye – Tickets + Tours

London eye facts and figures, getting to the london eye, london eye opening times, when is the best time to visit the london eye, what to look for from the london eye, what other london attractions are located near the london eye, tips for planning your visit to the london eye.

Nearest Tube station – Waterloo (Bakerloo, Northern, Jubilee and Waterloo & City lines)

How long to set aside for your visit?

Each trip on the London Eye lasts for 30 minutes. Allow at least an hour for boarding, queuing and disembarking, plus extra for travel to and from the site. 

Tickets 

• London Eye ticket
• London Eye fast-track ticket

Good to know – The London Eye is included on The Big City Saver Pass (formerly the Merlin Pass)

Combi tickets 

• London Eye, Thames River Cruise and Big Bus
• London Eye and London Dungeon
• London Eye, Madame Tussauds and London Dungeon
• London Eye and Shrek’s Adventure
• London Eye River Cruise and London Eye Ticket

Guided tours

• London Eye, St Paul’s and Tower of London tour
• Westminster walking tour with London Eye ticket

Visiting the London Eye

• Over 3.5 million people per year take a ride on the London Eye, and it’s one of the most popular paid attractions in the UK. 
• The London Eye is the fourth-largest big wheel in the world. At 443 feet (or 135 metres) high, it’s nowhere near being the city’s tallest building. That honour belongs to the Shard, which is 1,004 feet (or 306 metres) high.  
• The London Eye is a cantilevered wheel. This means it’s supported on one side only. Pretty impressive when you know that it weighs 1,000 tonnes, or in excess of 1 million pounds (not sterling, as in mass rather than currency). 
• The number of pods reflects the number of London Boroughs – 32. The fact that the capsule numbers go up to 33 often confuses people, but number 13 was missed out as it’s thought to be unlucky!
• Several people have climbed the London Eye including American illusionist David Blaine and British long distance runner Mo Farah. 
• The London Eye has been used as a restaurant and a rotating nightclub.
• You can book a ‘Cupid’s Pod’ on the London Eye. This is a private capsule for two adults only. A box of Hotel Chocolat Pink Champagne Truffles and a bottle of Pommery Rosé Champagne is included. The 30-minute trip is very popular for proposals!
• Copycat wheels have appeared in cities worldwide since the Eye opened in 2000, apparently inspired by the design. You can also find a miniature model of the Eye at Legoland Windsor, near London. 
• The London Eye opened later than planned. It was meant to be up and running in time for the millennium, but didn’t open until March 2000. This was due to a technical hitch. 
• You can see as far as Windsor Castle from your London Eye pod on a clear day in the city, which is 24 miles (or 39 kilometres) away. 

• Tube: The closest tube station to the London Eye is Waterloo in Zone 1. This is on the Bakerloo, Northern, Jubilee and Waterloo & City lines. The Eye is about 5 minute’s walk from here. Westminster, Embankment and Charing Cross are also within easy walking distance. 
• Overground rail: Waterloo and Charing Cross are the closest stations to the London Eye. Waterloo is only 5 minutes away on foot, while Charing Cross is more like 15. 
• Uber boat: London Eye Pier
• Sightseeing bus: The London Eye is on most major London hop-on, hop-off bus routes. 

The London Eye is open daily, except for Christmas Day. Though times vary throughout the year, the Eye opens at 10 am or 11 am and closes at 6 pm or 8.30 pm.

Earlier opening and later closing is more common in summer and at weekends. 

When booking your ticket, the available times for the chosen date will show up so you can select the one you want. During January, the Eye often closes for regular maintenance, so do check if you’re travelling then. 

• As mentioned above, the London Eye is one of the most popular paid attractions in London. It’s thus ever-popular and always busy!
• Weekends and the summer season are when to expect the longest queues and biggest crowds in this part of London. 
• If you can, book your visit between Monday and Friday rather than on Saturday or Sunday. 
• Booking an early ride is recommended. 

You can see a number of top London attractions, landmarks and icons from your London Eye pod. As well as the River Thames, of course.

Look out for the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s, The Shard, The Gherkin and the Millenium Bridge – and even Windsor Castle if there are clear skies!

• The South Bank
• Westminster, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
• Westminster Abbey
• Trafalgar Square
• 10 Downing Street
• St James’s Park
• Tate Modern
• Shakespeare’s Globe
• Borough Market
• Millenium Bridge

• The best time to visit the London Eye is on a fine, clear day, though this is of course difficult to plan in advance! Clear skies mean you may see as far as Windsor Castle in the distance, way beyond London. There is more of a chance of this in spring or summer, but it can be very busy during summer. 
• The London Eye is great for families visiting London with kids, who in general are pretty fearless and more likely to be awe-inspired than scared! Fast track tickets are recommended to stop them getting bored. As the trip only lasts for half an hour, there’s not really time for them to get restless. 
• The Eye is an accessible attraction. You’ll need to pre-book a slot in advance, which are available for standard sized wheelchairs only. Every disabled visitor is entitled to one free carer ticket. Find out more about London Eye accessibility here . 
• You’re free to take a trip on the London Eye if you’re pregnant, though you might want to use the toilet by the ticket office before boarding!
• Do buy your tickets in advance to save time and queuing up. We also recommend going for an early slot – or one after 3 pm. This is because the Eye tends to be busiest between 11 am and 3 pm. To avoid the standard queue, it can be worth paying for fast-track boarding, especially at busy times. 
• The time slot you book is the time that you’ll join the queue. You cannot join the queue before your booked slot, so there’s little point in arriving too early. 
• Do make sure you join the right queue! There are three, so it can be confusing. One is to buy tickets, one is for standard ticket holders and the third is for those with fast-track tickets. 
• Anyone aged 15 or under must come along with an adult aged 18 or over. 16 and 17 year olds can visit the attraction unaccompanied, however. 
• Don’t forget to charge your camera battery so you can snap some selfies! If you have binoculars, do bring those along too for far-reaching views. 
• Visiting Westminster Abbey
• Visiting the Tower of London
• Visiting Windsor Castle
• Visiting Kensington Palace
• Hampton Court Palace
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• Changing of the Guard

>> CLICK TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR LONDON TRAVEL GUIDE & ITINERARY PLANNER

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Travel With Lady Chin

Welcome To Travel with Lady Chin

How To Visit The London Eye: Everything You Need to Know

England , Europe , London / September 19, 2022 by Lady Chin

During my visit to London for Notting Hill Carnival , I spent my last day wandering around the city and impulsively purchased a ticket to ride the London Eye. The London Eye is one of those fun tourist attractions you must experience at least once. 

I heard the views once you get to the top are out of this world, and despite my semi-fear of heights, I am glad I got the chance to see the views of the Thames River, The Tower of London, and Big Ben first hand! 

If you’re visiting London for the first or 5th time and have never considered checking out the London Eye, this guide is for you. This post covers everything you need to know, from how to buy tickets, the best time to go, how to save money, and more. 

Ready for a fun adventure riding the London Eye while taking in the stunning views of the city? Let’s get into it! 

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What is the London Eye? 

The London Eye, named the Millenium Wheel initially, is a 443 ft tall (135 meters) cantilevered observation wheel or ferris wheel. It’s considered one of London’s most recognizable and popular attractions.

Unlike your typical ferris wheel, which usually seats four people, the London Eye has 32 capsules or pods that can hold up to 25 passengers. This means 800 people can be on the London Eye at one time per half an hour or 1600 per hour. 

Where is the London Eye? 

The London Eye is perfectly situated in Central London along the south bank of the Thames River in front of London’s County Hall building and just opposite the Houses of Parliament.  

The official address is Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB.  

How do you get to the London Eye?

Given the London Eye’s central location to many other main attractions, I recommend walking, especially if you are coming from Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. The walk is a 10-minute walk and a 5-minute walk from the Tower of London. 

Alternatively, Waterloo is the closest tube and train station. The Waterloo is served by the Bakerloo, Jubleem Northern and Waterloo, city lines, and overland trains. From the Waterloo station, it’s about a 3-5 minute walk over to the London Eye. 

Another great way to get to the London Eye is by the Hop on and Hop off buses in London or the hop on and off sightseeing cruises. These popular stops drop you a few minutes from the London Eye. 

When is the London Eye Open?

The opening times vary depending on the time of year. Typically the London Eye is open from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm and on the weekends 10:00 am – 8:30 pm. However, their schedule may change during the summer months, and recommend checking the website for the most up-to-date opening times. 

Note: The London Eye is closed on major holidays: Christmas Day (December 25th), New Year’s Eve (December 31st), and New Year’s Day (January 1st).

How long is the ride on the London Eye?

 The average ride is about 25-30 minutes but can be longer or shorter depending on how long the ride stops to allow passengers with accessibility needs to come on and off the pods. 

Once you’re in the pod, prepare for the most spectacular views of London! You can see up to 25 miles across the city on a clear day.  

Some of the recognizable attractions you’ll see up there include:

• The River Thames
• The Tower of London
• Tower Bridge
• The Houses of Parliament/ Palace of Westminster
• Buckingham Palace
• Canary Wharf
• St. Paul’s Cathedral

Where to buy your London Eye Tickets?

GetYourGuide is my favorite go-to for booking excursions around London. Given the popularity of the London Eye, I recommend buying your ticket online. GetYourGuide offers the best options while saving you money, flexible scheduling options, and refunds if you need to cancel.

You can also buy full-price same-day tickets at the self-service kiosk or ticket desk once you arrive at the ticket office.  

If you’re visiting the London Eye and want to stick to a budget, consider buying your tickets online beforehand. 

The London Eye attracts thousands of tourists and visitors daily, especially on weekends and during peak summer months. If you’re visiting during the busier times of the year, and want to save money, consider securing your tickets in advance.  

If you’re like me and prefer to go the sustainable route instead of printing your ticket, you can save your ticket to your mobile device or pick up your ticket in person from the self-service kiosks. 

How much does the London Eye Cost? 

Depending on the time of year, ticket prices will vary. Same-day tickets and tickets during the summer and weekends are more expensive than tickets booked in advance or on less busy days during the week.  

The London Eye has three main ticket options: the standard ticket, the fast-track ticket, and the family ticket. 

Standard London Eye Ticket:  This ticket is good for one 30-minute ride. Standard tickets allow you to choose a timeslot in advance. Remember the time on your ticket is when you can join the line. 

Weekends, summer months, holidays, and rides around sunset tend to be more expensive. I recommend buying your ticket three days in advance for the best prices during off-peak times. Getting your tickets early helps to avoid disappointment in the event.  

Standard ticket price: 

• Adults (16 +) £30.50 – £40, I paid £38
• Children (ages 3-15) – £27.50- £36
• Children (3 and under) – Free

Fast-track ticket:  This ticket allows you to skip the line, and the ride experience is the same as the standard ticket. Prices vary depending on the day you visit and when you book. If you’re visiting the London Eye during a busy time, during the summer months, during school breaks, public holidays, and on weekends, this option will save you time. 

Fast track prices:

• Adults (16 +) £42.50 – £55 
• Children (ages 3-15) – £38.50- £51

For more flexibility over when you ride, consider getting the flexi-fast track ticket. With this ticket, you can show up at any time on your chosen day. Flexi-fast ticket prices vary and can only be purchased online. 

Family ticket:  This ticket offers families a more cost-effective option. Ticket options for at least two children aged 3-15 will save you money. Children age three and under ride for free. 

Family ticket prices:

• Adults (16 +) £28
• Children (ages 3-15) – £28 per child (minimum of 2 children in the age range)

The family ticket option above is your best bet if you meet the above criteria. If you need to add another person to your family ticket or for a child under three, visit this page to book a time slot.  

Pro Tip:  You must include children under three as part of your reservation, even though they ride for free.

VIP London Eye Experiences 

If you’re planning a romantic visit, the London Eye offers exclusive VIP experiences: Champagne Experience, the Private Pod, and the Cupid Pod. 

Check the website for unique limited-time-only pod themes to see what is available when you book. 

The Champagne Experience:  This tour is not private, but the number is limited to 15 people per pod. This experience allows you to relax in the lounge before boarding.  

The Champagne experience includes: 

• An escort to your pod 
• A complimentary glass of Champagne
• Fast track boarding through the fast track lane
• Exceptional 360 viewing guide

Note: The champagne experience is for ticket holders only. The standard and fast-track tickets cannot be shared with champagne experience ticket holders. If you’re going with a group, ensure everyone has the same ticket to ride together. 

Private pod:  This ticket allows you to reserve an entire pod for between 2 and 25 people. This option is great for group celebrations like a bachelorette or other special occasions.

The private pod includes:

• Exclusive pod access for 2-25 people
• Fast track boarding
• The option to order food and drinks (not included in the ticket price)
• This option is also cost-effective. Price: £675

Cupid Pod:  For a more cost-effective yet very romantic experience, the Cupid Pod is the perfect experience for couples.  

The experience includes:

• Private pod for two guests (18 years or older)
• A bottle of Champagne
• A box of fancy chocolate 
• A personal host for your rotation
• Priority boarding
• Price: £ 550 

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my London Eye Ticket? 

Tickets purchased directly from the website are non-refundable. However, if you purchase your ticket through GetYourGuide , tickets are refundable. Make sure to check the terms and conditions before purchasing your tickets to be on the safe side. 

If you bought your tickets through the official website, you can change the time online after booking up to 24 hours before your ride – standard, fast track, and family ticket.

If you booked a VIP experience, you must contact customer service, as changes aren’t managed online. 

London Eye Discount Tickets

If you’re on a budget but want to enjoy a ride, purchasing your ticket online will save you money versus buying a same-day ticket. 

The 2FOR1 offer from the National Rail is an excellent option for visiting London by train. This option allows you to book two standard adult tickets for £36, making it £18 each! Students can save up to 35% with the London Eye discount.

Multi-attraction passes, which include the London Eye

For those of you already planning on visiting other attractions that day, consider booking the following passes: London Eye ride with a London River Cruise or London Eye ride with a Hop on Hop off bus tour. 

Other popular passes that help you save money are: 

Big City Saver Pass:  This pass allows you to choose up to 5 top attractions in London. These include Madam Tussauds, LIFE London Aquarium, London Dungeon, Shrek’s Adventure, and more! 

London City Card: This pass is another excellent option. It includes the Tower of London, The London Eye standard ticket, a 24-Hour Hop-on-Hop-off City Cruise, and audio guided walking tour.

Merlin Annual Pass:  This pass is perfect for those visiting multiple attractions across the UK. This pass includes the London Eye, Alton Towers, Warwick Castle, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, Sherk’s Adventure, and more. If you plan on staying in London for a while or, better yet, living in London, this pass is undoubtedly the most economical. 

Pro tip:  The London Pass does not currently include visiting the London Eye. However, GetYourGuide offers tickets. 

Visiting the London Eye: Frequently asked questions

What facilities are available on site.

• Fully accessible toilets are available. There are no toilets on board the London Eye. 
• Baby Changing areas
• Ticketing office & self-service ticket kiosk

What can’t I bring with me?

• Large sharp objects
• Glass bottles
• Weapons of any kind
• Skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, skates
• Animals (except service animals)

Can I store my Luggae at the London Eye? 

• There is no luggage storage at the London Eye, as large bags and suitcases aren’t allowed on board. 

Is the London Eye wheelchair accessible? 

• Yes, the London Eye is fully wheelchair accessible, and we recommend booking a wheelchair time slot in advance.

When is the best time to go?

• The best time to visit is in the late afternoons, right after the morning crowds. I lucked out and went on a Tuesday afternoon. There was no line, and my pod had seven other passengers on board.
• Consider the weather so that you have the best views for photo opts when you reach the top. 

Is the London Eye airconditioned? 

• Yes, the London Eye is airconditioned in the summer and winter months, warmed – The capsules are climate controlled. 
• The line for the London Eye isn’t enclosed, so be sure to dress appropriately during your time outdoors while waiting in line. 

Can I take food and drinks on board?

• Unfortunately, food and drinks are not allowed the London. You can bring a bottle of water, but that’s about it. However, if you book the Champagne Experience or the Cupid Pod experience, it will include champagne or a soda. 

Is picture taking allowed on the London Eye? 

• Yes! You can take loads of pictures by using your camera or smartphone. Tripods and professional video cameras are not allowed.  
• Note:  Two photos are taken during your experience, once standing in line and once you are in the pods. You have the option of purchasing these pictures after your ride. 

Nearby attractions  

After you’ve finished your ride on the London Eye, there are several popular things to do that are within walking distance from the London Eye. 

The top attractions close to the London Eye are: 

London Eye River Cruise: The sightseeing cruise departs under the London Eye. If you want to do both, this combination ticket includes the London Eye, or you can book your cruise separately. 

The London Dungeon: Tickets can be bought individually or saved using your big city saver pass, including the London Eye.

Jubilee Park & Garden: This free, small garden is next to the London Eye, with plenty of grass along the Thames River. My favorite was walking past the cool performances like juggling and dancing. Perfect also for people-watching. 

Shrek’s Adventure London:  This popular family activity is a 2-minute walk from the London Eye. You can buy tickets here or, better yet, save by using your multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass, which includes the London Eye. 

SEAL Life Centre London Aquarium:  Located in the same area (2 minutes), it has a range of aquatic exhibits, making it perfect for families. You can buy tickets individually or use your Big City Save pass, including the London Eye. 

Hop on Hop off bus:  This option is perfect for an audio tour. Tickets are available here, or you can save a few coins with a multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass, which allows you to visit the London Eye. 

The Graffiti Tunnel : This is a must-visit, especially if you are a street art lover. Leake Street Tunnel, also known as the Grafitti Tunnel, is a 300-meter stretch wall covered in fantastic artwork. What is even cooler about the graffiti tunnel is that anyone can paint on the walls. This is don’t miss attraction that’s only 5 mins walk away, and it’s free! 

Southbank Centre : EU’s largest art center is just 6 minutes north along the river. Here you will see performances, shops with various dining options, and UK’s most well-known state parks. 

Palace of Westminster:  Just a 10-minute walk, this iconic building is worth visiting and admiring even if you don’t go inside. Houses of Parliament

Westminster Abbey : 15-minute walk from the London Eye, this historic cathedral is a must-visit, especially if you spend one day in London. If you’re interested in learning more, guided tours are available.  

Churchill War Rooms  – If you’re a history buff, take the chance to walk through and discover the top-secret coordinators of the Churchill War Rooms. During World War 2, this was home to Prime Minster Winston Churchhill.

Alternatives to the London Eye

Nothing compares to a London Eye experience, especially when it comes to the views of London and the Thames River. However, for even more views of London, then add these locations to your itinerary: 

• The Shard  
• Sky Garden  
• The Tate Modern  
• St. Paul’s Cathedral Dome

Tips for visiting the London Eye

Here are a few helpful tips to make the most out of your visit: 

• Book tickets in advance to save money and select the best available option
• Make sure everyone in your group has the same ticket
• Children under three ride for free, but they still need to have a ticket
• If you plan on checking out other popular attractions in London and want to save money at the same time, consider booking a Big City Saver pass
• Be sure to arrive at the time listed on your tickets to join the line. The boarding time is different, so remember to get there with enough time to wait in line.  
• Leave your luggage and big bags in your hotel room, as they aren’t allowed in the pods.
• For the best views of London, check the weather forecast ahead of time to make sure you’re visiting on a good day. 
• Have fun and take lots of pictures! 

Conclusion – Lady Chin’s Two Cents

Even though I was initially scared, I had a fantastic experience riding the London Eye. Once we reached the top, I was greeted by the best view of London and the Thames River. Visiting the London Eye is worth it and not to be missed! 

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The London Eye

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The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Standard admission for adults starts at 30 pounds (around $38); children get discounted tickets. Packages – which include everything from a boat tour and London Eye ride to a private pod with sparkling wine – will have higher fees. To see a complete list of ticket options, or to book your ticket online, head to the London Eye  website . Also, check the website for opening times, which vary by season. You'll find the London Eye (also known as the Millennium Wheel) off the Waterloo Tube stop. The Embankment, Westminster, Lambeth North and Charing Cross stations are also fairly close.

Tours & Tickets

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More Best Things To Do in London, England

#1 Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

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This Is (Possibly) The Most Efficient Sightseeing Tour Of London

Want to do all the attractions , very quickly? Then here's the perfect London sightseeing map for you!

Ever wanted to go for a walk and hit up almost all of London’s sights in one fell swoop? Well, Redditor magulagie has the answer for you. They’ve created the ultimate London sightseeing map for tourists in a hurry. Just over five miles long on the map, it takes in a ton of London’s most iconic features, and if you avoid going inside any of the places you pass, it’ll only take about two hours ! Who needs to be filled in on all the historic interiors, anyway?

Perfect for ticking a lot of London tourist map boxes, filling up that Instagram story, or just getting your bearings on foot at the beginning of a trip full of London sightseeing . It’s like the Match of the Day of finding your way around London for the first time, and this one will hit like an injury-time winner.

Naturally, we had to give the sightseeing route a try for ourselves. And it definitely gets our seal of approval!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret London (@secret.london)

You’ll start off at Trafalgar Square…

There’s no London walking tour map without Trafalgar Square , so we might as well kick things off with this roaring-statue-filled paradise of pigeons…and a slice of London’s history, of course. A mighty first spot, and one that Nelson would very much approve of being tucked into first place. Where else would we begin?

Take a stroll along the Mall…

When we say stroll, we mean a speedy one—we’ve got a time limit to adhere to, people! A route in honour of Queen Victoria has to be added to a London map of attractions, right? Well, not necessarily, but when it looks this grandiose, you’ll want to be making it your next stop on your sightseeing tour. On we march; our love of London building more and more with each stride…

Until you arrive at Buckingham Palace…

Can’t really miss this one, can you? The home of the Royal Family gazes out over the plush fields of Green Park and attracts millions of visitors each year. If you see King Charles , be sure to quiz him on whether he’s ticked off all these boxes on his London sightseeing tour. Will he be a mere poser on London attractions or a go-to knowledge box?

Then head along Birdcage Walk…

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ciaran Thomas (@ciaranthomas97)

After you’ve taken a selfie with the Royal Family, it’s a no-brainer to make Birdcage Walk the next pin on your walking map of London attractions . Famous diary scribe Samuel Pepys mentioned this walk in his writings way back in the 1600s, and the name of the walk dates back to the reign of King James I . Not a bad smattering of history to saunter through on the way to your next destination. Tweet tweet.

Until you get to Westminster Abbey…

Even if you’ve been before, or don’t plan to look inside, making time for the resplendent piece of gothic architecture that is Westminster Abbey on your walking tour of London is a necessity. It’s been the location of 39 coronations since 1066 , and you just need to stand and admire one of London’s crown jewels.

The Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben, are right next door…

Talking of jewels in London’s crown, it’s always nice to check out the big bonging boombox that is the Elizabeth Tower , better known as Big Ben . You can also kill two birds with one stone by adding the Houses Of Parliament to your London sightseeing day which, if nothing else, is good to tick off to say you’ve seen the place where Members of Parliament shout at the Members of Parliament sitting opposite them. And the place Guy Fawkes wanted to destroy…

Then head over Westminster Bridge…

The second path over the river in central London history, after London Bridge. It’s been here since 1750, though it’s only been green since 1970, and it’s the perfect spot for a moment of reflection on your walking tour of London… if you don’t get bumped out of the way by commuters hurrying across Westminster Bridge in the morning. Hey, it happens. Unless you’re the one who does the bumping. Then you’re the one to watch out for, you treacherous little fiend. We see you.

And you’ll get to the South Bank. Along here you’ll see the London Eye.

Though the queue might seem daunting, there’s no denying that the dome built for the millennium is something that just needs to be seen. The London Eye was even named London’s most loved landmark in a study, so at the very least you’ll need to head over there on your walking tour to see whether you agree. But if you want to crack on with the quickfire walking tour, you won’t be able to dive into a pod for the view on this occasion — they go around slooooowwwwllllllyyy.

Now for the Southbank Centre

Whether it’s a place to hang out in the summer to catch some rays or your checkpoint on the map for a cold day’s activity of viewing some art , there’s always something going on at the Southbank Centre , and you’ll likely see us banging on about it all year round !

And book stalls under Waterloo Bridge.

“I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in.” Robert Louis Stevenson was a maverick with the pen, so maybe we should start adopting this practice too. If you’re looking for one to fill the first item, then you’ll find just the place on your walking tour. Maybe the man who gave us Treasure Island and Kidnapped also once carried a London sightseeing map in his pocket…

Head past that scrap of sand we call the foreshore and the OXO Tower.

While we can’t get away with calling it a beach , we’ll just play pretend for this London sightseeing tour , okay?! There’s no time for a cocktail on these shores though; there’s a tour to be getting on with! Dawdlers, be gone.

Before too long you’ll arrive at the Tate Modern .

London’s most popular art gallery, don’tcha know? Are you going to go in? NO. THERE IS NO TIME. YOU MUST COMPLETE THE REST OF YOUR LONDON SIGHTSEEING MAP.

Carry on along the river a little bit and you’ll see Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

And this is embarrassing but (for the only time on this walk) you’ll have to double back on yourself very slightly. I know, the ultimate betrayal; but still not quite as bad as the one poor Hamlet was struck with.

Then it’s over Millennium Bridge:

2000 gave us Kid A by Radiohead, but it also gave us the opening of the incredibly useful Millennium Bridge. You can decide which you prefer for yourself; though you can, of course, enjoy them simultaneously along your London sightseeing map walk through the power of headphones. What a world.

Until you reach St. Paul’s Cathedral !

I hear it’s beautiful inside, but you’re not allowed to take photos anyway so, quite frankly, who’s got the time? Anyway, it’s Christopher Wren’s masterpiece and one that you’ll need to check off your London sightseeing tour list.

Then it’s time to walk along Cannon Street…

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thoroughly Modern Milly (@millykr)

This bit’s a little boring, to be honest. (It’s certainly nowhere near as pretty as its namesake in Birmingham .) But there is a stunning little townhouse, now home to The Walbrook Club, hidden away down a side street along the way. Don’t spend too long searching for it, though, as there are places to go and sights to see!

…until you get to The Monument!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenn (@perspectivebyglenn)

Don’t ask which monument – it’s The Monument and you’ll find it near Monument station. Keep your eyes peeled, because even if it towers overhead – it’s surprisingly easy to miss! The grand monument to the Great Fire Of London in 1666 is a tall order for your London tour, but I’m sure you’ll make it worthwhile.

Now just roll down Lower Thames Street and you’ll soon get to the Tower of London!

You could go in, meet the ravens, ogle a Beefeater, check out the Crown Jewels. Or say ‘nahhhhhhhhhhh y’alright’ and carry on. There’s plenty more of your sightseeing tour to tick off. Anyway, it’s a classy fortress that might look easy on the eye, but was also used to lock people up in the Tudor period. Don’t get on the wrong side of them…

Tower Bridge is, like, right next door. Get a load of that.

Few more to go on your London sightseeing map . Getting tired yet? Good. You’ve nearly earned your end-of-tour pint. Hey! Stop thinking about alcohol and feast your eyes on Tower Bridge .

Then just a couple of minutes away you’ll reach the pretty marina at St. Katherine’s Docks:

Need a pint now… But St. Katherine’s Docks is pretty, and pretty much wraps up our London tourist map. I can hear those beer barrels being readied to fill the glasses.

Until – hurrah! – you finally arrive at a flower-festooned pub.

Well played, my tourist friend: the cheeriest of cheers to you. Now it’s definitely time for a pint !

Also published on Medium .

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How To Walk from Tower Bridge to the London Eye Along The River Thames!

Categories London

If you walk from Tower Bridge to the London Eye you’ll pass the Millennium Bridge, St Pauls Cathedral, Free London Viewpoints, Street Performers and more along the way! Walking along the River Thames is a great walk to do in London to see many of London’s top attractions on your London itinerary !

On a sunny blue sky day, I took to the River Thames with my Marco Polo London Guide  following their recommended River Thames walking guide to remind myself just how easy and enjoyable it is to walk along the Thames.

Whether you’re a tourist in London or a local Londoner , this is an iconic London walk that you should not miss! It’ll take you 2-6 hours depending on how much you want to see and how much you want to stop and enter the attractions in London you pass!

Tower Bridge to the London Eye or London Eye to Tower Bridge

If you’re not in London already, be sure to look at The Train Line for the best train tickets to London. I use them all the time to search for the best times, routes and prices!

Start: Tower Hill Station

The closest tube station to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London is Tower Hill Tube Station which is conveniently located on the District, Circle and DLR line so it’s easy to reach from elsewhere in London.

I suggest starting at this end of the river , and so does the Marco Polo Guide as I find it less busy than the ending point of this walk- the London Eye and Westminster.

With that being said, if you’re wondering how to walk from the London Eye to Tower Bridge, you can simply reverse this walk.

I love that as soon as you walk out of Tower Hill Station you’re presented with an impeccable view of the Tower of London across the main road. Head under the tunnel which takes you alongside the Tower of London.

The Tower of London is a 900-year-old castle and fortress and it’s very famous for being home to the Crown Jewels. You can see a lot of the inside castle and outside grounds in about one hour, so if you think you’ll want to visit the Tower of London, be sure to get some tickets online in advance because they do sell out on busy days and you’ll avoid the queues of getting them on the day.

Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic attractions and London’s most famous Bridge. Visitors often think it’s called London Bridge but London Bridge is the next bridge up and very basic in comparison!

As part of this walk, you’ll need to walk over Tower Bridge to the Southside of the River Thames and if you don’t go in the Tower of London and fancy doing a unique activity in London, you can go right up into the top of Tower Bridge to see the bridge through a glass floor!

Just be aware that you’ll need to walk up the stairs to the top because there’s no elevator in this 1800’s bridge! Tickets can be purchased in advance on their page here .

After walking over the impressive Tower Bridge you’ll be in South London , as London is split by the River Thames! For centuries the Southside of the River Thames was very rough and scruffy compared to the North but with the expansion of London, oh how times have changed.

The Southbank , next to the Tower Bridge, is now full of places to sit to take in the view of the city skyline opposite. It’s also full of pop up bars and food markets all summer and all winter as this is a popular spot for London Christmas markets come December!

Head up the river towards The Shard , you will need to detour out onto the road here but the detour takes you straight through Borough Market which is good if you need something to eat or just want to check out this famous London street food market.

If going up The Shard to the observatory right at the top is on your London bucket list, now is your chance and it will fit in nicely with this River Thames walk. However, if you want a free London viewpoint , keep reading as there’s one coming up!

Related Post: If you’re reading this but it seems like it might rain when you’re in London, have a look at my post on Things To Do in London When it Rains .

A recent place I found close to London Bridge is Flat Iron Square . It’s a really cool indoor and outdoor street food market under a train line, it opens at 12:00 noon and is open all day so if you’ve been to Borough Market before or fancy going somewhere more local and quirky, head to Flat Iron Square as it’s not out of the way at all!

The next stretch of River will take you under the train tunnels through Clink Street which is the historic location of the notorious Clink Prison- one of Englands oldest prisons dating back to 1144! They offer visits which last one hour  and I’d recommend going in if the history of London is interesting to you. Plus this London attraction is much less touristy than the London Dungeons nearby.

Talking of history, next up on your places to visit on the River Thames is Shakespears Globe which is a reconstruction of the Globe Theatre built just 180m from its original site.

The London Marco Polo Guide informed me that in Shakespeare’s time this was a disreputable quarter of brothels, bear-baiting pits and gambling dens, hence the reason for the South of the River Thames to have such a bad reputation in the past!

Guided tours of Shakespears Globe are on offer but you get a pretty good view of the building from the pavement which is a total contrast to the buildings nearby, or anything else in London for that matter.

If you are a tourist in London and you’re planning on visiting a lot of London attractions, let me introduce you to the London Pass!

The London Pass offers access into 80+ of the top London attractions . If you plan on going on the London Eye, taking Boat Trips, going into Tower Bridge and St Pauls Cathedral and even plan on going outside of London to Windsor Castle or Hampton Court Palace, it would be cheaper to buy the London Pass so you save money on entrance fee’s and get fast track entry , perfect for if you only have a few days in London!

The London Pass is valid for 2 years once purchased and you can buy a 1, 2, 3, 6 or 10 day pass so you can visit so many of London’s best attractions in the cheapest possible way !

Click here to look into the options and to buy your pass now while you’re thinking about it!

Coming up is another one of London’s most famous Bridges – the Millennium Bridge , the bridge is famous because of its appearance in the Harry Potter film the Half-Blood Prince, so if you’re a Harry Potter fan looking for the Harry Potter places to see in London, be sure to get your camera out and head up onto the bridge.

Side Note – If you are a Harry Potter fan there are lots of Harry Potter Tours you can do in London, here are 3 of the best with the most reviews and they’re all a really good price:

Even if you are not interested in the Harry Potter London locations, it’s still worth going up onto the River as the view of St Pauls Cathedral at the end is one of London’s most iconic views!

Next up is the building that helped change the face of the Southbank- the Tate Modern art gallery. You can tell from the shape of the building that this used to be a power station, the decision was made to turn this building into an international modern and contemporary art gallery in London in 1994 and it opened in 2000. The Marco Polo London Guide informed me that this was a real turning point for the regeneration of the area!

If you want a free London viewpoint you have to go inside the Tate Modern, walkthrough into the back building and go up the lift, or stairs, to the 11th floor . Here you get an impressive 360 view of the City including an amazing view towards St Pauls Cathedral and the South of London.

From the Tate Modern keep walking along the river and this is where the Southbank really comes alive and becomes really good fun. During the Summer months, there are lots of pop up food stalls and bars so be sure to rest your feet enjoying one. Out of season, there’s also plenty of pubs and quintessentially English pubs if you’d rather get a drink in one of those and be inside for a bit.

Alongside the South Bank Centre which will soon appear, is the Southbank Stakepark , it’s another really popular thing to see in London because children and teenagers have been skating here for over 40 years!

Around here is also where the Southbank street performers start. People with incredible voices are singing, magic shows are happening, and if you’re lucky, or perhaps not lucky, you might get pulled in one of the performances with them! Watching the performers are one of the fun things to do with children on the Southbank, as well as the Starflyer swing swinging through the sky!

The London Eye soon comes into view!

If you want to go on the London Eye you need to book tickets in advance with a specific time, this will save you queuing on the day although note you’ll probably still need to queue anyway because it is London’s top attraction and one of the best things to do in London. I’d personally say that the London Eye is worth the wait too!

I would recommend crossing the bridge in front of the London Eye which is Golden Jubilee Bridge , I recommend this as the crowds around the London Eye and onto Westminster Bridge get ridiculously busy whereas crossing the Golden Jubilee Bridge enables you to avoid the crowds and you’ll still get an amazing view of the River, London Eye, Houses of Parliament and Big Ben from the Bridge.

If you’re still looking for a food or drink stop, you should get a drink and/or fish and chips on the Tattershall Castle Pub which is a pub on a boat on the River Thames looking directly at the London Eye.. pretty cool hey!

It’s a great spot whether you’re a tourist to London and or a local Londoner I think!

From here you can walk along the river towards the  Houses of Parliament , Big Ben , Westminster Abbey and Westminster Station or you could continue to walk straight into Covent Garden which isn’t far from the Thames at all!

Related Post:  Things To Do in Covent Garden.

Or you could see the Thames from another perspective by getting on a boat and going back to Tower Bridge where you started, or all the way down to Greenwich .

Accommodation on the River Thames.

If you want to keep your trip to London along the River Thames or you’re looking for a good location in London to stay in, I stayed at YHA Thameside Hostel . They offer dormitory rooms and private rooms making it a London hostel perfect for all budgets!

I really enjoyed staying at YHA Thameside in this South London hostel because it’s located close to Canada Water in a very local and residential area which gives guests a unique look at London away from the busy, touristic centre.

I also really loved YHA Thameside’s common areas which were light and colourful and that I had access to a self-catering kitchen which is a great way to stick to a budget when visiting London! 

Check out YHA Thameside and the other YHA London Hostels here for their availability & rates!

Marco Polo London Guide.

If you’re visiting London as a tourist I’d recommend purchasing the London Marco Polo Guide before your visit! It’s full of really great London Discovery Tours like this one which gives you a good insight into the different areas of London, as well as the chance to learn about London as it’s such an interesting and historic city, but also such a modern city at the same time!

Check out the guide on Amazon here!

• For more of my London Guides and Posts see:
• 10 Things To Do in London When it Rains!
• Walking From Tower Bridge to Knightsbridge!
• Your Complete Guide To Camden Town in London!
• The Best Places to Visit in Shoreditch in East London!
• 2 Day London Itinerary!
• 3 Day London Itinerary!
• ALL LONDON POSTS

This post is sponsored by Marco Polo Guides however all thoughts and opinions are my own. I was hosted by YHA Hostels to stay at YHA Thameside but based on my experience I truly recommend the hostel to you.

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Monday 20th of June 2022

Visiting soon and staying near the eye, this is a fantastic guide for us to take in the sights as we walk to Tower of London! Thanks for all the great tips!

Friday 2nd of July 2021

This is a great article! We are HOPING we will be able to go to London next year (depending on how that pesky pandemic behaves). It just so happens that where I want to stay (near St. Katharine's Dock) is near the Tower Bridge, so many of the stops were already on my to do list so you made it very easy for me! I wanted you to know I will be using your article for my planning, thank you!

TheWanderingQuinn

Monday 5th of July 2021

That's great to hear! Yes, let's hope next year is much better for travel! :)

Tuesday 2nd of June 2020

Ahhhh! This is my favourite walk in London! Borough Market is amazing! Great Post!

Saturday 10th of August 2019

Good to see london historic place in your blog page . Some images required close view shot . Remain all Good .