During my visit to London for Notting Hill Carnival, I spent my last day wandering around the city and impulsively purchased a ticket to ride the London Eye. The London Eye is one of those fun tourist attractions you must experience at least once.
I heard the views once you get to the top are out of this world, and despite my semi-fear of heights, I am glad I got the chance to see the views of the Thames River, The Tower of London, and Big Ben first hand!
If you’re visiting London for the first or 5th time and have never considered checking out the London Eye, this guide is for you. This post covers everything you need to know, from how to buy tickets, the best time to go, how to save money, and more.
Ready for a fun adventure riding the London Eye while taking in the stunning views of the city? Let’s get into it!
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What is the London Eye?
The London Eye, named the Millenium Wheel initially, is a 443 ft tall (135 meters) cantilevered observation wheel or ferris wheel. It’s considered one of London’s most recognizable and popular attractions.
Unlike your typical ferris wheel, which usually seats four people, the London Eye has 32 capsules or pods that can hold up to 25 passengers. This means 800 people can be on the London Eye at one time per half an hour or 1600 per hour.
Where is the London Eye?
The London Eye is perfectly situated in Central London along the south bank of the Thames River in front of London’s County Hall building and just opposite the Houses of Parliament.
The official address is Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB.
How do you get to the London Eye?
Given the London Eye’s central location to many other main attractions, I recommend walking, especially if you are coming from Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. The walk is a 10-minute walk and a 5-minute walk from the Tower of London.
Alternatively, Waterloo is the closest tube and train station. The Waterloo is served by the Bakerloo, Jubleem Northern and Waterloo, city lines, and overland trains. From the Waterloo station, it’s about a 3-5 minute walk over to the London Eye.
Another great way to get to the London Eye is by the Hop on and Hop off buses in London or the hop on and off sightseeing cruises. These popular stops drop you a few minutes from the London Eye.
When is the London Eye Open?
The opening times vary depending on the time of year. Typically the London Eye is open from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm and on the weekends 10:00 am – 8:30 pm. However, their schedule may change during the summer months, and recommend checking the website for the most up-to-date opening times.
Note: The London Eye is closed on major holidays: Christmas Day (December 25th), New Year’s Eve (December 31st), and New Year’s Day (January 1st).
How long is the ride on the London Eye?
The average ride is about 25-30 minutes but can be longer or shorter depending on how long the ride stops to allow passengers with accessibility needs to come on and off the pods.
Once you’re in the pod, prepare for the most spectacular views of London! You can see up to 25 miles across the city on a clear day.
Some of the recognizable attractions you’ll see up there include:
- The River Thames
- The Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- The Houses of Parliament/ Palace of Westminster
- Buckingham Palace
- The Shard
- BT Tower
- Canary Wharf
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
Where to buy your London Eye Tickets?
GetYourGuide is my favorite go-to for booking excursions around London. Given the popularity of the London Eye, I recommend buying your ticket online. GetYourGuide offers the best options while saving you money, flexible scheduling options, and refunds if you need to cancel.
You can also buy full-price same-day tickets at the self-service kiosk or ticket desk once you arrive at the ticket office.
If you’re visiting the London Eye and want to stick to a budget, consider buying your tickets online beforehand.
The London Eye attracts thousands of tourists and visitors daily, especially on weekends and during peak summer months. If you’re visiting during the busier times of the year, and want to save money, consider securing your tickets in advance.
If you’re like me and prefer to go the sustainable route instead of printing your ticket, you can save your ticket to your mobile device or pick up your ticket in person from the self-service kiosks.
How much does the London Eye Cost?
Depending on the time of year, ticket prices will vary. Same-day tickets and tickets during the summer and weekends are more expensive than tickets booked in advance or on less busy days during the week.
The London Eye has three main ticket options: the standard ticket, the fast-track ticket, and the family ticket.
Standard London Eye Ticket: This ticket is good for one 30-minute ride. Standard tickets allow you to choose a timeslot in advance. Remember the time on your ticket is when you can join the line.
Weekends, summer months, holidays, and rides around sunset tend to be more expensive. I recommend buying your ticket three days in advance for the best prices during off-peak times. Getting your tickets early helps to avoid disappointment in the event.
Standard ticket price:
- Adults (16 +) £30.50 – £40, I paid £38
- Children (ages 3-15) – £27.50- £36
- Children (3 and under) – Free
Fast-track ticket: This ticket allows you to skip the line, and the ride experience is the same as the standard ticket. Prices vary depending on the day you visit and when you book. If you’re visiting the London Eye during a busy time, during the summer months, during school breaks, public holidays, and on weekends, this option will save you time.
Fast track prices:
- Adults (16 +) £42.50 – £55
- Children (ages 3-15) – £38.50- £51
- Children (3 and under) – Free
For more flexibility over when you ride, consider getting the flexi-fast track ticket. With this ticket, you can show up at any time on your chosen day. Flexi-fast ticket prices vary and can only be purchased online.
Family ticket: This ticket offers families a more cost-effective option. Ticket options for at least two children aged 3-15 will save you money. Children age three and under ride for free.
Family ticket prices:
- Adults (16 +) £28
- Children (ages 3-15) – £28 per child (minimum of 2 children in the age range)
- Children (3 and under) – Free
The family ticket option above is your best bet if you meet the above criteria. If you need to add another person to your family ticket or for a child under three, visit this page to book a time slot.
Pro Tip: You must include children under three as part of your reservation, even though they ride for free.
VIP London Eye Experiences
If you’re planning a romantic visit, the London Eye offers exclusive VIP experiences: Champagne Experience, the Private Pod, and the Cupid Pod.
Check the website for unique limited-time-only pod themes to see what is available when you book.
The Champagne Experience: This tour is not private, but the number is limited to 15 people per pod. This experience allows you to relax in the lounge before boarding.
The Champagne experience includes:
- An escort to your pod
- A complimentary glass of Champagne
- Fast track boarding through the fast track lane
- Exceptional 360 viewing guide
Note: The champagne experience is for ticket holders only. The standard and fast-track tickets cannot be shared with champagne experience ticket holders. If you’re going with a group, ensure everyone has the same ticket to ride together.
Private pod: This ticket allows you to reserve an entire pod for between 2 and 25 people. This option is great for group celebrations like a bachelorette or other special occasions.
The private pod includes:
- Exclusive pod access for 2-25 people
- Fast track boarding
- The option to order food and drinks (not included in the ticket price)
- This option is also cost-effective. Price: £675
Cupid Pod: For a more cost-effective yet very romantic experience, the Cupid Pod is the perfect experience for couples.
The experience includes:
- Private pod for two guests (18 years or older)
- A bottle of Champagne
- A box of fancy chocolate
- A personal host for your rotation
- Priority boarding
- Price: £ 550
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my London Eye Ticket?
Tickets purchased directly from the website are non-refundable. However, if you purchase your ticket through GetYourGuide, tickets are refundable. Make sure to check the terms and conditions before purchasing your tickets to be on the safe side.
If you bought your tickets through the official website, you can change the time online after booking up to 24 hours before your ride – standard, fast track, and family ticket.
If you booked a VIP experience, you must contact customer service, as changes aren’t managed online.
London Eye Discount Tickets
If you’re on a budget but want to enjoy a ride, purchasing your ticket online will save you money versus buying a same-day ticket.
The 2FOR1 offer from the National Rail is an excellent option for visiting London by train. This option allows you to book two standard adult tickets for £36, making it £18 each! Students can save up to 35% with the London Eye discount.
Multi-attraction passes, which include the London Eye
For those of you already planning on visiting other attractions that day, consider booking the following passes: London Eye ride with a London River Cruise or London Eye ride with a Hop on Hop off bus tour.
Other popular passes that help you save money are:
Big City Saver Pass: This pass allows you to choose up to 5 top attractions in London. These include Madam Tussauds, LIFE London Aquarium, London Dungeon, Shrek’s Adventure, and more!
London City Card: This pass is another excellent option. It includes the Tower of London, The London Eye standard ticket, a 24-Hour Hop-on-Hop-off City Cruise, and audio guided walking tour.
Merlin Annual Pass: This pass is perfect for those visiting multiple attractions across the UK. This pass includes the London Eye, Alton Towers, Warwick Castle, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, Sherk’s Adventure, and more. If you plan on staying in London for a while or, better yet, living in London, this pass is undoubtedly the most economical.
Pro tip: The London Pass does not currently include visiting the London Eye. However, GetYourGuide offers tickets.
Visiting the London Eye: Frequently asked questions
What facilities are available on site?
- Fully accessible toilets are available. There are no toilets on board the London Eye.
- Baby Changing areas
- Free WIFI
- Gift shop
- Ticketing office & self-service ticket kiosk
What can’t I bring with me?
- Large sharp objects
- Glass bottles
- Weapons of any kind
- Skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, skates
- Drones
- Animals (except service animals)
Can I store my Luggae at the London Eye?
- There is no luggage storage at the London Eye, as large bags and suitcases aren’t allowed on board.
Is the London Eye wheelchair accessible?
- Yes, the London Eye is fully wheelchair accessible, and we recommend booking a wheelchair time slot in advance.
When is the best time to go?
- The best time to visit is in the late afternoons, right after the morning crowds. I lucked out and went on a Tuesday afternoon. There was no line, and my pod had seven other passengers on board.
- Consider the weather so that you have the best views for photo opts when you reach the top.
Is the London Eye airconditioned?
- Yes, the London Eye is airconditioned in the summer and winter months, warmed – The capsules are climate controlled.
- The line for the London Eye isn’t enclosed, so be sure to dress appropriately during your time outdoors while waiting in line.
Can I take food and drinks on board?
- Unfortunately, food and drinks are not allowed the London. You can bring a bottle of water, but that’s about it. However, if you book the Champagne Experience or the Cupid Pod experience, it will include champagne or a soda.
Is picture taking allowed on the London Eye?
- Yes! You can take loads of pictures by using your camera or smartphone. Tripods and professional video cameras are not allowed.
- Note: Two photos are taken during your experience, once standing in line and once you are in the pods. You have the option of purchasing these pictures after your ride.
Nearby attractions
After you’ve finished your ride on the London Eye, there are several popular things to do that are within walking distance from the London Eye.
The top attractions close to the London Eye are:
London Eye River Cruise: The sightseeing cruise departs under the London Eye. If you want to do both, this combination ticket includes the London Eye, or you can book your cruise separately.
The London Dungeon: Tickets can be bought individually or saved using your big city saver pass, including the London Eye.
Jubilee Park & Garden: This free, small garden is next to the London Eye, with plenty of grass along the Thames River. My favorite was walking past the cool performances like juggling and dancing. Perfect also for people-watching.
Shrek’s Adventure London: This popular family activity is a 2-minute walk from the London Eye. You can buy tickets here or, better yet, save by using your multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass, which includes the London Eye.
SEAL Life Centre London Aquarium: Located in the same area (2 minutes), it has a range of aquatic exhibits, making it perfect for families. You can buy tickets individually or use your Big City Save pass, including the London Eye.
Hop on Hop off bus: This option is perfect for an audio tour. Tickets are available here, or you can save a few coins with a multi-attraction Big City Saver Pass, which allows you to visit the London Eye.
The Graffiti Tunnel: This is a must-visit, especially if you are a street art lover. Leake Street Tunnel, also known as the Grafitti Tunnel, is a 300-meter stretch wall covered in fantastic artwork. What is even cooler about the graffiti tunnel is that anyone can paint on the walls. This is don’t miss attraction that’s only 5 mins walk away, and it’s free!
Southbank Centre: EU’s largest art center is just 6 minutes north along the river. Here you will see performances, shops with various dining options, and UK’s most well-known state parks.
Palace of Westminster: Just a 10-minute walk, this iconic building is worth visiting and admiring even if you don’t go inside. Houses of Parliament
Westminster Abbey: 15-minute walk from the London Eye, this historic cathedral is a must-visit, especially if you spend one day in London. If you’re interested in learning more, guided tours are available.
Churchill War Rooms – If you’re a history buff, take the chance to walk through and discover the top-secret coordinators of the Churchill War Rooms. During World War 2, this was home to Prime Minster Winston Churchhill.
Alternatives to the London Eye
Nothing compares to a London Eye experience, especially when it comes to the views of London and the Thames River. However, for even more views of London, then add these locations to your itinerary:
- The Shard
- Sky Garden
- The Tate Modern
- St. Paul’s Cathedral Dome
Tips for visiting the London Eye
Here are a few helpful tips to make the most out of your visit:
- Book tickets in advance to save money and select the best available option
- Make sure everyone in your group has the same ticket
- Children under three ride for free, but they still need to have a ticket
- If you plan on checking out other popular attractions in London and want to save money at the same time, consider booking a Big City Saver pass
- Be sure to arrive at the time listed on your tickets to join the line. The boarding time is different, so remember to get there with enough time to wait in line.
- Leave your luggage and big bags in your hotel room, as they aren’t allowed in the pods.
- For the best views of London, check the weather forecast ahead of time to make sure you’re visiting on a good day.
- Have fun and take lots of pictures!
Conclusion – Lady Chin’s Two Cents
Even though I was initially scared, I had a fantastic experience riding the London Eye. Once we reached the top, I was greeted by the best view of London and the Thames River. Visiting the London Eye is worth it and not to be missed!
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