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.

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Hotels in London England UK.

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A view from the London Eye.View of London From The 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Accessibility: The London Eye is accessible for wheelchairs and those with disabilities, with dedicated capsules available.
  4. 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.
  5. Duration of ride: The London Eye ride lasts approximately 30 minutes.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Dress code: There is no formal dress code for the London Eye, but visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
  9. Photography: Photography and videography are allowed on the London Eye, making it a great opportunity to capture memorable moments.
The London Eye Wheel.London Eye Ferris Wheel

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.

by bus

  • 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.

Bicycle

  • Free parking spaces are available right next to the attraction.

Car Parks

  • 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.
Queuing area to the London Eye.London Eye Entrance

10 facts about the london eye

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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. 
  9. 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.
  10. 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.

Sea Life Aquarium London.

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

Shrek Adventure London.

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

Madame Tussauds London Beatles.

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

Westminster Bridge London.

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.

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.

London Eye Capsule on the Ferris Wheel.London Eye Capsule

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.

What Tube line is the London Eye on?

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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The Eye of London.

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