Published on 14 October 2024 Last updated on 10 August 2026
Would you like to visit the London Eye? The Ferris wheel on the River Thames is one of London’s most famous attractions and attracts millions of visitors every year. But is a ride on the London Eye really worth it?
In this blog, I share my experiences and tell you what you can expect during a visit. I also give practical tips, so you can decide for yourself whether the London Eye is a good choice for your city trip to London.
What is the London Eye?
The London Eye is a large observation wheel on the south bank of the River Thames. The wheel was designed by architects David Marks and Julia Barfield and was built to celebrate the new millennium. Construction began in 1998, and in March 2000, the London Eye opened to visitors for the first time.
The observation wheel is 135 metres high and has 32 glass capsules. Each capsule can accommodate several visitors. During a full ride, the wheel slowly makes one complete rotation, which takes about 30 minutes. Because the capsules are largely made of glass, you have a clear view of London along the way.
On a clear day, you can see far across the city from the London Eye. You can see famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. How far you can actually see, of course, depends on the weather and visibility.
The London Eye was originally intended to be a temporary attraction. However, its success was so great that the observation wheel remained in place and has since become one of London’s most famous landmarks. In its early years, the attraction was also often called the Millennium Wheel.
Is the London Eye Worth Visiting?
Over the past fifteen years, I have visited London several times. During several of these visits, I also took a ride on the London Eye. I especially enjoy the view over the city. From high above, you look out over the River Thames and get to see London from a completely different perspective.
I will be honest: a ride on the London Eye is not cheap. Nevertheless, I think the attraction is particularly worthwhile on your first visit to London. You see the city in a way that you cannot experience from street level. For me, a ride on the London Eye is therefore part of a first introduction to London.
That does not mean I would recommend the attraction to everyone. If you have little interest in viewpoints, are travelling on a limited budget, or the weather is bad, you can easily skip the London Eye. You can, of course, still see the attraction from the outside.
What makes the London Eye worth visiting?
The biggest advantage, in my opinion, is the view. During the slow rotation, you have plenty of time to look at different parts of London. You can see the River Thames, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, among other landmarks. The glass capsules give you a wide view in all directions.
The London Eye is also interesting for photography. The capsules move slowly, and a full rotation takes about 30 minutes. This means you do not have to rush to take photos.
When would I skip the London Eye?
The price is the biggest disadvantage for many visitors. Especially when travelling with several people, a visit can become quite expensive. It can also take a long time before it is your turn during busy periods.
The weather also plays a major role. On a clear day, you can see much more of London than on a rainy or foggy day. In dense fog, the view can even be so limited that you can barely see the famous buildings on the other side of the River Thames.
My advice is therefore to check the weather forecast if you are unsure and not necessarily plan your visit for a fixed day. If the weather is poor, you may be better off spending your time and money on another attraction.
Cheaper alternatives for views of London
Would you mainly like to enjoy the view over London but find the London Eye too expensive? There are also other options.
A well-known option is the Sky Garden. This is an indoor garden high above the city with views over London. Admission is free, but you need to book in advance.
Horizon 22 is another interesting option. This free viewing platform offers panoramic views of London. Here too, you need to reserve a time slot in advance.
These alternatives are particularly interesting if you are mainly visiting for the view and place less value on the experience of taking a ride on the London Eye.
What can you expect during a ride on the London Eye?
A ride on the London Eye is calm and involves no sudden movements. During the rotation, you have plenty of time to look around, take photos and enjoy the view over London.
Boarding the London Eye
Before you enter the London Eye, you will go through a security check where your bag is inspected. You then wait until it is your turn to board.
The capsules continue to move slowly while passengers are boarding. You therefore do not have to wait for the entire wheel to come to a stop. Boarding is calm, and the capsules are large enough for you to move around freely during the ride.
What is the ride like?
A full rotation on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. The wheel moves so slowly that you barely notice that you are going up and then back down.
Inside the glass capsule, you can walk around and look outside from different sides. There are also seats if you would rather sit down for a while. The capsules are enclosed and climate-controlled, so you can remain comfortable in both cooler and warmer weather.
Because the London Eye moves so slowly, you have plenty of time throughout the entire ride to enjoy the view. You therefore do not have to worry about having only a few minutes to take photos.
The View from the London Eye
The view is one of the main reasons for me to ride the London Eye. From the highest point, you are about 135 metres above London, looking out over the River Thames and the city’s buildings. Because the London Eye is located on the South Bank, you get a different view throughout the rotation.
On the opposite side of the River Thames are the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. You have a particularly good view of them from the higher parts of the wheel. Westminster Abbey is also located just behind the Houses of Parliament and is easy to recognise by its large towers.
When conditions are good, you can see further across central London. To the west, you can see Buckingham Palace and St James’s Park, among other landmarks. Trafalgar Square and Nelson’s Column can also be seen from the London Eye.
On the other side of the River Thames, the view changes and you get to see more of London’s skyline. The dome of St Paul’s Cathedral stands out among the city’s buildings. The Shard is also clearly visible from the London Eye. On a clear day, you can even spot the Tower Bridge further away.
Exactly what you can see depends heavily on the weather. On a clear day, the view is much more impressive than when there is fog, rain or low cloud. This is something to keep in mind when you want to book a ticket for the London Eye.
London Eye Tickets and Prices
There are several different tickets available for a visit to the London Eye. You can choose a standard admission ticket, but there are also combination tickets with other activities in London. For example, you can combine a London Eye ticket with a hop-on hop-off bus tour or a boat trip on the River Thames.
I usually buy a standard ticket for the London Eye. However, if you are visiting London for the first time and only have a limited amount of time, a combination with a bus tour or boat trip can be interesting. This allows you to see a large part of the city in a short amount of time.
I have also taken these tours myself. I especially enjoy a boat trip on the River Thames as a way to see London from the water. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is particularly useful if you want to see several attractions without spending too much time using public transport.
Don’t want to spend too much time waiting during your city trip to London? Then you can choose a ticket with priority access. This means you don’t have to wait in the regular queue for visitors with a standard ticket.
On busy days, the regular waiting time at the London Eye can be between 30 and 60 minutes, and sometimes even longer than an hour. With priority access, you can significantly reduce this waiting time. However, you do pay more than for a standard ticket.
Priority access can be particularly useful if you are only spending a few days in London and already have a busy itinerary. If you have enough time and would rather save money on your ticket, a standard ticket is probably the better choice.
Would you like to make your visit to the London Eye a little more special? Then you can choose the Champagne Experience. During the ride, you can enjoy a glass of champagne while looking out over London from the capsule.
This option is particularly suitable for a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, but it can of course also be fun if you want to do something extra during your city trip.
The time of day you visit the London Eye can make a big difference. Not only because of how busy it is, but also because of the view. Personally, there are two times I enjoy most: early in the day and around sunset.
To avoid the crowds
Want to avoid the biggest crowds as much as possible? Then I would visit the London Eye early in the day. Especially on weekdays, you generally have a better chance of a shorter waiting time than in the middle of the day.
Visiting in the morning has another advantage. You then have the rest of the day to explore other attractions in London. However, make sure to check the current opening hours in advance, as they can vary by day and season.
For the best view
My favourite time is around sunset. You can see London in daylight and gradually watch the city light up. Especially on a clear day, this can be a beautiful experience and provides opportunities for some great photos.
Keep the season in mind. In summer, the sun sets much later in London than in winter. A visit around sunset therefore takes place much earlier in the day during winter. So check the sunset time and the final boarding times for the day you want to visit.
What is the best season?
A good time to visit London is spring or early autumn. During these periods, it can be pleasant to walk around the city, and it is often less busy than during the most popular summer months.
However, I would not choose the season as the main reason for planning your visit to the London Eye. The weather remains the most important factor when it comes to the view. A clear day during a busy summer period can provide a much better view than a foggy day during a quieter period.
Visiting the London Eye with Children
Yes, in my opinion. When I visited the London Eye with my own children, they also thought it was a fun experience. The large Ferris wheel immediately made an impression, but they were especially interested in the view. From high above, they could try to recognise famous buildings and places in London.
The London Eye moves very slowly, so the ride is calm. Even for young children, the movement does not feel fast or frightening. The spacious, enclosed glass capsules also allow children to walk around and look outside from different sides.
A fun idea is to turn it into a small game during the ride. Who can spot Big Ben, Buckingham Palace or the River Thames first? This way, children are actively engaged with the view instead of simply looking outside.
Tips for visiting with children
Book your tickets in advance. Especially on busy days, the waiting time can become quite long. With a ticket booked in advance, you know when it is your turn and avoid having to wait at the ticket office first.
Consider priority access. If you are travelling with young children who do not like waiting for a long time, a ticket with priority access can be useful. However, you do pay extra for this.
Combine the London Eye with other attractions. There are several attractions near the London Eye that are great for families. SEA LIFE London Aquarium is nearby, and you can also visit Shrek’s Adventure! London. A playground nearby can also be useful if the children need to burn off some energy after the ride.
What is the London Eye 4D Experience?
When visiting the London Eye, you can also experience the 4D Experience. This is a short film of around four minutes that introduces you to London in a unique way. The film is shown at the cinema at County Hall, close to the London Eye.
You see London from the perspective of a bird flying over the city. The images are in 3D, and various sensory effects are used during the film. This means you are not only watching the images but also experiencing the film in other ways.
What makes the London Eye 4D Experience special?
When you enter, you are given 3D glasses. Various effects are added during the film. For example, you can feel wind and experience light splashes of water. In some scenes, mist, snow and soap bubbles are also used.
The film ends with a fireworks display. Sensory effects are also used during this scene to make it feel even more realistic.
Is the 4D Experience included with your ticket?
The 4D Experience is included with your London Eye ticket. You therefore do not need to buy a separate ticket.
You can watch the film before or after your ride. Most visitors choose to experience the 4D Experience beforehand, so they can then continue directly to the London Eye.
Where is the London Eye located?
The London Eye is located on the South Bank of the River Thames, opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. The Ferris wheel is part of County Hall, the former town hall of London.
The location is convenient if you want to visit several attractions during your city trip. From the London Eye, you can walk to Westminster Bridge, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey in a short time. Other famous places along the South Bank are also nearby.
The London Eye is also located directly beside the River Thames. This means that during the ride, you not only have views of London’s skyline but also look out over the river and the Westminster area.
How do you get to the London Eye?
The London Eye is easy to reach from different parts of London. The Underground is the most convenient option for many visitors. From Waterloo Station, it is about a five-minute walk to the London Eye.
You can also easily reach the attraction from other Underground stations. Westminster Station is located on the opposite side of the River Thames. From there, you can walk across Westminster Bridge to the South Bank. Along the way, you also have a direct view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
If you are travelling by train to Waterloo Station, you can also walk from the station to the London Eye in about five minutes.
Is the London Eye safe?
De London Eye is ontworpen als een grote toeristische attractie en een ritje verloopt rustig. De capsules bewegen langzaam en zijn volledig afgesloten, waardoor je tijdens de rit niet het gevoel hebt dat je in een snel bewegend reuzenrad zit.
Zelf heb ik de London Eye meerdere keren bezocht en ik heb een ritje nooit als eng ervaren. Wel kan de hoogte voor sommige mensen spannend zijn. Heb je last van hoogtevrees, dan kan het even wennen zijn wanneer je steeds hoger komt.
Ook de glazen capsules kunnen voor sommige bezoekers een aandachtspunt zijn als je niet graag in een afgesloten ruimte zit. De capsules zijn echter ruim en je kunt tijdens de rit gewoon rondlopen.
Voor de meeste bezoekers is een ritje met de London Eye vooral een rustige manier om Londen van grote hoogte te bekijken.
Practical Tips for Visiting the London Eye
Would you like to visit the London Eye? With these practical tips, you can plan your visit in advance and avoid any surprises on the day itself.
1. Book your ticket online in advance
Want to make sure you get a spot at your preferred time? Then it is a good idea to book your ticket online in advance. You choose a time slot and do not have to buy a ticket at the ticket office first.
2. Consider a Fast Track ticket
Do you have limited time during your city trip? Then a Fast Track ticket can be useful. You get priority over visitors with a standard ticket, meaning you spend less time in the regular queue.
3. Arrive on time
Allow enough time for your visit. Make sure you arrive about 30 minutes before your booked time slot. This gives you enough time for the security check and boarding. If you have not yet experienced the 4D Experience, make sure to allow some extra time for this as well.
4. Arrange your luggage in advance
There is no cloakroom at the London Eye where you can leave large pieces of luggage. Are you travelling with a large suitcase or other luggage that you do not want to take with you? Arrange luggage storage in the area in advance, for example near Waterloo Station.
5. Use the toilet beforehand
A full ride on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. There are no toilets inside the capsules. It is therefore a good idea to use the toilet before boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the London Eye
Can you bring food and drinks into the London Eye?
Small amounts of food and drinks for personal use are allowed, but you are not supposed to eat an entire meal during the ride. If you bring something with you, make sure you can carry it neatly and do not cause any inconvenience to other visitors.
Can you take photos in the London Eye?
Yes, you can take photos and videos during the ride. Because the capsules move slowly, you have plenty of time to take photos of the view over London.
Can you visit the London Eye if you have limited mobility?
The London Eye is accessible to visitors with limited mobility. The capsules are accessible at ground level, and staff take into account visitors who need additional assistance when boarding.
What happens if it rains?
The London Eye normally remains open when it rains. Rain mainly affects the view. In bad weather, fog or low cloud, you will be able to see less far across London. If you have a choice, a clear day is therefore a better option.
Is the London Eye suitable if you are afraid of heights?
This varies from person to person. The capsules are spacious and move very slowly, making the ride feel calm. However, the height can still be intimidating if you are afraid of heights. You are not standing directly at the edge during the ride, but looking down through the glass windows.
Can you visit the London Eye without booking in advance?
Yes, but booking in advance is usually a better option. With a ticket booked in advance, you choose a time slot and avoid having to go to the ticket office first on the day itself. During busy periods, it can also be more difficult to find a suitable time at short notice.
How long does a visit to the London Eye take in total?
The ride itself takes about 30 minutes. You also need to allow time for the security check, waiting and boarding. How much extra time you need depends on how busy it is and the type of ticket you have chosen. Therefore, do not only consider the duration of the ride when planning your day.
Special offers for London
Are you planning your trip to London? Below you will find more articles with useful tips and practical information for your trip.
Hi, I’m Edward, a passionate city break enthusiast with over 15 years of travel experience. During that time, I’ve explored dozens of cities across Europe and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share my firsthand experiences and practical travel tips to help you plan the perfect city break—from must-see attractions and day-by-day itineraries to hotel recommendations and transportation advice for every destination.
Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
Visiting the London Eye: Is It Worth It?
Would you like to visit the London Eye? The Ferris wheel on the River Thames is one of London’s most famous attractions and attracts millions of visitors every year. But is a ride on the London Eye really worth it?
In this blog, I share my experiences and tell you what you can expect during a visit. I also give practical tips, so you can decide for yourself whether the London Eye is a good choice for your city trip to London.
What is the London Eye?
The London Eye is a large observation wheel on the south bank of the River Thames. The wheel was designed by architects David Marks and Julia Barfield and was built to celebrate the new millennium. Construction began in 1998, and in March 2000, the London Eye opened to visitors for the first time.
The observation wheel is 135 metres high and has 32 glass capsules. Each capsule can accommodate several visitors. During a full ride, the wheel slowly makes one complete rotation, which takes about 30 minutes. Because the capsules are largely made of glass, you have a clear view of London along the way.
On a clear day, you can see far across the city from the London Eye. You can see famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. How far you can actually see, of course, depends on the weather and visibility.
The London Eye was originally intended to be a temporary attraction. However, its success was so great that the observation wheel remained in place and has since become one of London’s most famous landmarks. In its early years, the attraction was also often called the Millennium Wheel.
Is the London Eye Worth Visiting?
Over the past fifteen years, I have visited London several times. During several of these visits, I also took a ride on the London Eye. I especially enjoy the view over the city. From high above, you look out over the River Thames and get to see London from a completely different perspective.
I will be honest: a ride on the London Eye is not cheap. Nevertheless, I think the attraction is particularly worthwhile on your first visit to London. You see the city in a way that you cannot experience from street level. For me, a ride on the London Eye is therefore part of a first introduction to London.
That does not mean I would recommend the attraction to everyone. If you have little interest in viewpoints, are travelling on a limited budget, or the weather is bad, you can easily skip the London Eye. You can, of course, still see the attraction from the outside.
What makes the London Eye worth visiting?
The biggest advantage, in my opinion, is the view. During the slow rotation, you have plenty of time to look at different parts of London. You can see the River Thames, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, among other landmarks. The glass capsules give you a wide view in all directions.
The London Eye is also interesting for photography. The capsules move slowly, and a full rotation takes about 30 minutes. This means you do not have to rush to take photos.
When would I skip the London Eye?
The price is the biggest disadvantage for many visitors. Especially when travelling with several people, a visit can become quite expensive. It can also take a long time before it is your turn during busy periods.
The weather also plays a major role. On a clear day, you can see much more of London than on a rainy or foggy day. In dense fog, the view can even be so limited that you can barely see the famous buildings on the other side of the River Thames.
My advice is therefore to check the weather forecast if you are unsure and not necessarily plan your visit for a fixed day. If the weather is poor, you may be better off spending your time and money on another attraction.
Cheaper alternatives for views of London
Would you mainly like to enjoy the view over London but find the London Eye too expensive? There are also other options.
A well-known option is the Sky Garden. This is an indoor garden high above the city with views over London. Admission is free, but you need to book in advance.
Horizon 22 is another interesting option. This free viewing platform offers panoramic views of London. Here too, you need to reserve a time slot in advance.
These alternatives are particularly interesting if you are mainly visiting for the view and place less value on the experience of taking a ride on the London Eye.
What can you expect during a ride on the London Eye?
A ride on the London Eye is calm and involves no sudden movements. During the rotation, you have plenty of time to look around, take photos and enjoy the view over London.
Boarding the London Eye
Before you enter the London Eye, you will go through a security check where your bag is inspected. You then wait until it is your turn to board.
The capsules continue to move slowly while passengers are boarding. You therefore do not have to wait for the entire wheel to come to a stop. Boarding is calm, and the capsules are large enough for you to move around freely during the ride.
What is the ride like?
A full rotation on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. The wheel moves so slowly that you barely notice that you are going up and then back down.
Inside the glass capsule, you can walk around and look outside from different sides. There are also seats if you would rather sit down for a while. The capsules are enclosed and climate-controlled, so you can remain comfortable in both cooler and warmer weather.
Because the London Eye moves so slowly, you have plenty of time throughout the entire ride to enjoy the view. You therefore do not have to worry about having only a few minutes to take photos.
The View from the London Eye
On the opposite side of the River Thames are the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. You have a particularly good view of them from the higher parts of the wheel. Westminster Abbey is also located just behind the Houses of Parliament and is easy to recognise by its large towers.
When conditions are good, you can see further across central London. To the west, you can see Buckingham Palace and St James’s Park, among other landmarks. Trafalgar Square and Nelson’s Column can also be seen from the London Eye.
On the other side of the River Thames, the view changes and you get to see more of London’s skyline. The dome of St Paul’s Cathedral stands out among the city’s buildings. The Shard is also clearly visible from the London Eye. On a clear day, you can even spot the Tower Bridge further away.
Exactly what you can see depends heavily on the weather. On a clear day, the view is much more impressive than when there is fog, rain or low cloud. This is something to keep in mind when you want to book a ticket for the London Eye.
London Eye Tickets and Prices
There are several different tickets available for a visit to the London Eye. You can choose a standard admission ticket, but there are also combination tickets with other activities in London. For example, you can combine a London Eye ticket with a hop-on hop-off bus tour or a boat trip on the River Thames.
I usually buy a standard ticket for the London Eye. However, if you are visiting London for the first time and only have a limited amount of time, a combination with a bus tour or boat trip can be interesting. This allows you to see a large part of the city in a short amount of time.
I have also taken these tours myself. I especially enjoy a boat trip on the River Thames as a way to see London from the water. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is particularly useful if you want to see several attractions without spending too much time using public transport.
London Eye Admission Ticket
London Eye: Priority Access
Don’t want to spend too much time waiting during your city trip to London? Then you can choose a ticket with priority access. This means you don’t have to wait in the regular queue for visitors with a standard ticket.
On busy days, the regular waiting time at the London Eye can be between 30 and 60 minutes, and sometimes even longer than an hour. With priority access, you can significantly reduce this waiting time. However, you do pay more than for a standard ticket.
Priority access can be particularly useful if you are only spending a few days in London and already have a busy itinerary. If you have enough time and would rather save money on your ticket, a standard ticket is probably the better choice.
The London Eye Champagne Experience
Would you like to make your visit to the London Eye a little more special? Then you can choose the Champagne Experience. During the ride, you can enjoy a glass of champagne while looking out over London from the capsule.
This option is particularly suitable for a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, but it can of course also be fun if you want to do something extra during your city trip.
London Eye with a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour or Boat Trip
When is the best time to visit the London Eye?
The time of day you visit the London Eye can make a big difference. Not only because of how busy it is, but also because of the view. Personally, there are two times I enjoy most: early in the day and around sunset.
To avoid the crowds
Want to avoid the biggest crowds as much as possible? Then I would visit the London Eye early in the day. Especially on weekdays, you generally have a better chance of a shorter waiting time than in the middle of the day.
Visiting in the morning has another advantage. You then have the rest of the day to explore other attractions in London. However, make sure to check the current opening hours in advance, as they can vary by day and season.
For the best view
My favourite time is around sunset. You can see London in daylight and gradually watch the city light up. Especially on a clear day, this can be a beautiful experience and provides opportunities for some great photos.
Keep the season in mind. In summer, the sun sets much later in London than in winter. A visit around sunset therefore takes place much earlier in the day during winter. So check the sunset time and the final boarding times for the day you want to visit.
What is the best season?
A good time to visit London is spring or early autumn. During these periods, it can be pleasant to walk around the city, and it is often less busy than during the most popular summer months.
However, I would not choose the season as the main reason for planning your visit to the London Eye. The weather remains the most important factor when it comes to the view. A clear day during a busy summer period can provide a much better view than a foggy day during a quieter period.
Visiting the London Eye with Children
Yes, in my opinion. When I visited the London Eye with my own children, they also thought it was a fun experience. The large Ferris wheel immediately made an impression, but they were especially interested in the view. From high above, they could try to recognise famous buildings and places in London.
The London Eye moves very slowly, so the ride is calm. Even for young children, the movement does not feel fast or frightening. The spacious, enclosed glass capsules also allow children to walk around and look outside from different sides.
A fun idea is to turn it into a small game during the ride. Who can spot Big Ben, Buckingham Palace or the River Thames first? This way, children are actively engaged with the view instead of simply looking outside.
Tips for visiting with children
Book your tickets in advance. Especially on busy days, the waiting time can become quite long. With a ticket booked in advance, you know when it is your turn and avoid having to wait at the ticket office first.
Consider priority access. If you are travelling with young children who do not like waiting for a long time, a ticket with priority access can be useful. However, you do pay extra for this.
Combine the London Eye with other attractions. There are several attractions near the London Eye that are great for families. SEA LIFE London Aquarium is nearby, and you can also visit Shrek’s Adventure! London. A playground nearby can also be useful if the children need to burn off some energy after the ride.
What is the London Eye 4D Experience?
When visiting the London Eye, you can also experience the 4D Experience. This is a short film of around four minutes that introduces you to London in a unique way. The film is shown at the cinema at County Hall, close to the London Eye.
You see London from the perspective of a bird flying over the city. The images are in 3D, and various sensory effects are used during the film. This means you are not only watching the images but also experiencing the film in other ways.
What makes the London Eye 4D Experience special?
When you enter, you are given 3D glasses. Various effects are added during the film. For example, you can feel wind and experience light splashes of water. In some scenes, mist, snow and soap bubbles are also used.
The film ends with a fireworks display. Sensory effects are also used during this scene to make it feel even more realistic.
Is the 4D Experience included with your ticket?
The 4D Experience is included with your London Eye ticket. You therefore do not need to buy a separate ticket.
You can watch the film before or after your ride. Most visitors choose to experience the 4D Experience beforehand, so they can then continue directly to the London Eye.
Where is the London Eye located?
The London Eye is located on the South Bank of the River Thames, opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. The Ferris wheel is part of County Hall, the former town hall of London.
The location is convenient if you want to visit several attractions during your city trip. From the London Eye, you can walk to Westminster Bridge, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey in a short time. Other famous places along the South Bank are also nearby.
The London Eye is also located directly beside the River Thames. This means that during the ride, you not only have views of London’s skyline but also look out over the river and the Westminster area.
How do you get to the London Eye?
The London Eye is easy to reach from different parts of London. The Underground is the most convenient option for many visitors. From Waterloo Station, it is about a five-minute walk to the London Eye.
You can also easily reach the attraction from other Underground stations. Westminster Station is located on the opposite side of the River Thames. From there, you can walk across Westminster Bridge to the South Bank. Along the way, you also have a direct view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
If you are travelling by train to Waterloo Station, you can also walk from the station to the London Eye in about five minutes.
Is the London Eye safe?
De London Eye is ontworpen als een grote toeristische attractie en een ritje verloopt rustig. De capsules bewegen langzaam en zijn volledig afgesloten, waardoor je tijdens de rit niet het gevoel hebt dat je in een snel bewegend reuzenrad zit.
Zelf heb ik de London Eye meerdere keren bezocht en ik heb een ritje nooit als eng ervaren. Wel kan de hoogte voor sommige mensen spannend zijn. Heb je last van hoogtevrees, dan kan het even wennen zijn wanneer je steeds hoger komt.
Ook de glazen capsules kunnen voor sommige bezoekers een aandachtspunt zijn als je niet graag in een afgesloten ruimte zit. De capsules zijn echter ruim en je kunt tijdens de rit gewoon rondlopen.
Voor de meeste bezoekers is een ritje met de London Eye vooral een rustige manier om Londen van grote hoogte te bekijken.
Practical Tips for Visiting the London Eye
Would you like to visit the London Eye? With these practical tips, you can plan your visit in advance and avoid any surprises on the day itself.
1. Book your ticket online in advance
Want to make sure you get a spot at your preferred time? Then it is a good idea to book your ticket online in advance. You choose a time slot and do not have to buy a ticket at the ticket office first.
2. Consider a Fast Track ticket
Do you have limited time during your city trip? Then a Fast Track ticket can be useful. You get priority over visitors with a standard ticket, meaning you spend less time in the regular queue.
3. Arrive on time
Allow enough time for your visit. Make sure you arrive about 30 minutes before your booked time slot. This gives you enough time for the security check and boarding. If you have not yet experienced the 4D Experience, make sure to allow some extra time for this as well.
4. Arrange your luggage in advance
There is no cloakroom at the London Eye where you can leave large pieces of luggage. Are you travelling with a large suitcase or other luggage that you do not want to take with you? Arrange luggage storage in the area in advance, for example near Waterloo Station.
5. Use the toilet beforehand
A full ride on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. There are no toilets inside the capsules. It is therefore a good idea to use the toilet before boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the London Eye
Can you bring food and drinks into the London Eye?
Small amounts of food and drinks for personal use are allowed, but you are not supposed to eat an entire meal during the ride. If you bring something with you, make sure you can carry it neatly and do not cause any inconvenience to other visitors.
Can you take photos in the London Eye?
Yes, you can take photos and videos during the ride. Because the capsules move slowly, you have plenty of time to take photos of the view over London.
Can you visit the London Eye if you have limited mobility?
The London Eye is accessible to visitors with limited mobility. The capsules are accessible at ground level, and staff take into account visitors who need additional assistance when boarding.
What happens if it rains?
The London Eye normally remains open when it rains. Rain mainly affects the view. In bad weather, fog or low cloud, you will be able to see less far across London. If you have a choice, a clear day is therefore a better option.
Is the London Eye suitable if you are afraid of heights?
This varies from person to person. The capsules are spacious and move very slowly, making the ride feel calm. However, the height can still be intimidating if you are afraid of heights. You are not standing directly at the edge during the ride, but looking down through the glass windows.
Can you visit the London Eye without booking in advance?
Yes, but booking in advance is usually a better option. With a ticket booked in advance, you choose a time slot and avoid having to go to the ticket office first on the day itself. During busy periods, it can also be more difficult to find a suitable time at short notice.
How long does a visit to the London Eye take in total?
The ride itself takes about 30 minutes. You also need to allow time for the security check, waiting and boarding. How much extra time you need depends on how busy it is and the type of ticket you have chosen. Therefore, do not only consider the duration of the ride when planning your day.
Special offers for London
Are you planning your trip to London? Below you will find more articles with useful tips and practical information for your trip.
City trip to London: Is London a nice city?
Read more »Attractions in London: Tips and Practical Information
Read more »Applying for ETA: Practical tips and information
Read more »These are the most popular tickets and tours for a visit to the London Eye
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Hi, I’m Edward, a passionate city break enthusiast with over 15 years of travel experience. During that time, I’ve explored dozens of cities across Europe and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share my firsthand experiences and practical travel tips to help you plan the perfect city break—from must-see attractions and day-by-day itineraries to hotel recommendations and transportation advice for every destination.
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