London Eye

While the London Eye stands open year-round, advance planning can sharpen the experience and help avoid long waits. Arriving early, especially in spring or late autumn, allows for a smoother entry and better city views, with softer light shining off Westminster and the dome of St. Paul’s. Tickets are best bought online to sidestep the ticket-office crowd. Situated along the lively Queen’s Walk, the landmark is a short stroll from Waterloo Station, where trains, buses, and the Underground meet. Expect busy riverside paths, families with strollers, and impromptu street performances.

• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings or evenings (spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and milder weather)
• How to get there: Short walk from Waterloo Station; also accessible via Embankment and Westminster stations for a scenic approach over the bridge
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible; staff offer assistance; family and group options available
• Average visit duration: 30 minutes for the rotation; allow 1–2 hours total including entry and exploring the riverside

The main attraction is, of course, the ride itself—a seamless ascent over London’s rooftops, where each pod frames the city’s layers old and new. Yet, beneath the famous curve of the wheel, the South Bank area buzzes with theaters, galleries, and shaded gardens. Step beyond the obvious and fresh discoveries await, from riverside sculpture to historic bridges within sight.

• The main rotation: Panoramic skyline with iconic landmarks—Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, The Shard, and sweeping parks
• 4D Cinema Experience: Short film before boarding brings London to life with sound, wind, and even mist
• Private pods and Champagne trips: Upgrade options for small groups, proposals, or those marking a special day
• Photo hot spots: The highest point of the ride (especially facing east at golden hour); street-level shots looking up capture dramatic reflections on the pods
• Fun fact: The London Eye was Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel when it opened in 2000 and, though now overtaken, remains the most popular paid tourist attraction in the UK
• Nearby gems: The Jubilee Gardens for a relaxed picnic, Leake Street Arches for vibrant street art, and bookstalls under Waterloo Bridge selling vintage finds