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 2022. 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.
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…
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