Towering over the South Bank of the River Thames, the London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, stands proudly at 135 metres tall. Boasting over 85 awards for its contribution to tourism, architecture, and engineering, it has become the UK's most popular paid visitor attraction. Not just the world's largest cantilevered observation wheel, the London Eye offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of London, from the iconic Houses of Parliament to the winding River Thames.
As a trip to London isn’t complete without taking a ride on the London Eye, let’s break down the London Eye tickets, and what the London Eye at night is all about.
Important information about the London Eye
Opening times: Monday to Thursday 11 AM- 6 PM, Friday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, UK.
London Eye Tickets: Standard Tickets are £30 if you buy them online and £45 if you buy them from the booth, so make sure you check their online website for full details on all the prices.
Duration: One rotation will take around 30 minutes.
How to reach the London Eye?
The London Eye, also called the Millennium Wheel in London stands proudly on the South Bank of the River Thames. Directly opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, it offers breathtaking panoramic views.
So, we have many options when it comes to transportation:
By metro: Waterloo Station is the closest tube station to the Millennium Wheel in London, just a short walk away. It's well-connected by 4 lines (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Waterloo & City) and sits in Zone 1 for easy access.
By train: The closest stations are Waterloo (5 min walk, exit 6 for South Bank) and Charing Cross (15 min walk, cross Hungerford Bridge).
By bus: Several buses connect you to the Millennium Wheel in London: 1, 12, 59, 68, 76, 77, 139, 148, 159, 168, 176, 188, 211, 243, 77 and 381, 507, 521. Most London sightseeing tours and the RV1 bus route (linking the Eye to Tate Modern and Covent Garden) include a stop there.
By boat: The London Eye Pier, located beside the landmark itself, offers convenient access by riverboat from these piers: O2, Bankside, Embankment, Blackfriars, London Bridge, Tower, Canary Wharf, Hilton Docklands, Masthouse Terrace, Greenwich, Royal Arsenal Woolwich, St. Katherine's or Westminster Pier.
By coach: If you are planning to go to the London Eye with a group then a coach can be a great choice. Please note that you have 15 minutes for both dropping off and picking up your group. Coach parking is not allowed.
By car: If you plan on going by your private car, the London Eye offers a 10% discount at the Q-Park Westminster car park, which is just a short walk, on all pre-bookings.
How do you book London Eye tickets online?
Just make your way to the official London Eye website and follow these steps:
Click “Book Now”
Pick your preferred ticket type
Choose your date
You will then need to choose how many tickets you need if you need tickets for children (2 - 15 Years), and if you want mini-binoculars for a better viewing experience.
Click “Next”
Pick your preferred time slot
You will then be prompted to choose if you want to add any package to your standard ticket. If you don’t want any, just click “Not now thanks”.
And, once you have arrived at check-out, just link your preferred payment method. Congratulations! you are now the proud owner of a London Eye ticket.
What to do in the London Eye?
The London Eye aka the Millennium Wheel in London's main attraction is the panoramic view it provides as you slowly rotate around the wheel. You can see famous landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the River Thames sprawling across the city.
Best Time To Visit the London Eye
The best time to visit the London Eye varies depending on what you are looking for, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
Peak times at the London Eye are 11 AM to 3 PM during school holidays. If you want peace of mind, aim to go at the beginning or end of their opening hours.
The London Eye occasionally hosts special events like Christmas Day or New Year's Eve celebrations, offering a unique way to experience the attraction.
If you are looking for a more romantic experience, then taking a ride during the sunset will be a magical experience. Arrive around an hour before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the gradual transformation of the cityscape.
If you are looking for a more intimate experience, then visiting the London Eye at night will be ideal, as you will be able to avoid the crowds and the scorching sun.
London Eye at Night: A Sight to Behold
Immerse yourself in the magic of the London Eye at night. This mesmerising landmark transforms into a beacon of light, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city's illuminated skyline. Witness the dazzling display of landmarks like the Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament, each sparkling against the backdrop of the night sky.
To get the best experience, plan your visit around sunset to witness the city's transition from day to night. Clear nights offer spectacular panoramas, while foggy evenings create a more atmospheric ambience.
Remember to dress warmly, as temperatures at higher altitudes can be chilly, especially at night.
If you are interested in more activities to do during your time in London, then why not read about the things to do in London
London Eye l FAQs
Q. Are London Eye tickets refundable?
A. Tickets are purchased on a non-refundable and non-transferable basis, but you can change the date and time of your visit (up to three times) through the official website.
Q. What attractions are near the London Eye?
A. The main attractions are the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the River Thames
Q. What are the opening times for the London Eye?
A. Monday to Friday 11 AM- 6 PM, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Q. Does the London Eye operate at night?
A. Yes, the London Eye at night is a sight to behold, so make sure to check it out.
Q. What is the best Time To Visit the London Eye?
A. 11 AM-3 PM during school holidays. Aim for early/late hours or off-peak periods for shorter queues. Sunset rides offer breathtaking views. Opening hours vary, so check their website before your trip.
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