The London Eye is a cantilevered observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, stands as an iconic symbol of modern London. Conceived as part of a competition to design a new landmark for the millennium in 1998, the project materialized as a collaboration between several architects and engineers, including David Marks and Julia Barfield. The wheel offers stunning panoramic views of London, and its construction was a feat of engineering and architectural innovation.

With a diameter of 120 meters and a height of 135 meters, it was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel when it opened on March 9th 2000. Its 32 sealed and air-conditioned ovoidal passenger capsules are symbolic, representing each of London’s 32 boroughs, yet they are numbered from 1 to 33, skipping number 13 for superstitious reasons.

Is “The View from the Top” any good?

A ride on the London Eye offers a unique perspective on London’s landscape. On a clear day, the visibility can extend up to 40 kilometers, offering views of Windsor Castle and other distant landmarks. The slow rotation of the wheel, taking about 30 minutes for a full turn, allows ample time for visitors to soak in the city’s panoramic vistas.

How long does it take to go round on the London Eye?

The full turn of the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. But remember there is queuing and waiting time to board, so you should schedule at least an hour for your visit, and longer if you haven’t booked a ticket in advance.

What city is the London Eye in?

The London Eye is in London, England, United Kingdom. It’s in the Borough of Lambeth, nearest the junction of Belvedere Road and Chichelay Street, with the nearest postcode to the London Eye being SE1 7PB.

The nearest Tube Station to the London Eye.

The nearest tube station to the London Eye in London is Westminster Station. This station is served by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines. From Westminster Station, it’s just a short walk (approximately 10 minutes) across Westminster Bridge to reach the London Eye. Another nearby station is Waterloo Station, which is a bit farther but still within walking distance (approx 11 minutes walk). Waterloo Station is served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines.

By alighting (a fancy word for getting off) the tube at Waterloo you can walk along the South Bank taking in various sights, rather than exiting at the crowded Westminster Station and crossing the always crowded Westminster Bridge.

What is the best time to ride the London Eye

Undoubtedly the best time to ride the London Eye is at sunset. Unfortunately these tickets are always in high demand. We think the best time is anytime, but certainly the later in the daytime you go is better so that if you hang around you can also see it lit up with lights at night time.