Visit the London Eye: Complete Guide to London’s Iconic Millennium Wheel (Tickets, Prices, Hours, Access)

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It’s impossible to visit London without noticing its modern icon: the London Eye, the giant Ferris wheel standing proudly on the South Bank of the Thames, right across from Big Ben.

At 135 metres high, the London Eye offers a 360° panoramic view of the British capital and welcomes millions of visitors every year who come to experience this unforgettable ride.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before booking your ride on the London Eye:

• The latest London Eye ticket prices and how to book online at the best rates
• The official London Eye opening times in 2025 and the best time to visit without the crowds
• The different types of London Eye tickets available (standard, fast-track, VIP, and combo passes)
• Which London passes include the London Eye (London Pass Plus, Merlin Magical London Pass, etc.)
• The best places to visit near the London Eye, such as Big Ben, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and Westminster
• My insider tips to enjoy the ride, take stunning photos, and make the most of your visit

If you’re wondering how much does it cost to visit the London Eye, how to book London Eye tickets easily, or when is the best time to visit the London Eye, you’re in the right place. Follow this guide and get ready to enjoy one of the most memorable views in London.

👉 And make sure to read until the end: I’ll also share exactly where and how to buy your London Eye tickets at the lowest guaranteed price.

Why Visit the London Eye?

Few landmarks are as instantly recognisable as the London Eye. This futuristic Ferris wheel, also known as the London Millennium Wheel, has become one of the city’s most iconic symbols, right up there with Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. And unlike what some people think, it’s not just a pretty postcard backdrop.

Riding the London Eye is a full experience in itself, one you shouldn’t miss if it’s your first time in London.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Soar 135 metres above the city, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views over London
• Understand the layout of the city at a glance, from Buckingham Palace to the City, with the Thames and Tower Bridge winding below
• Enjoy a calm and quiet moment in a fully glazed, air-conditioned capsule – a welcome break from the busy streets
• Capture amazing London Eye photos for your album or Instagram, with the skyline as your backdrop

It’s an attraction that is at once iconic, accessible, and spectacular. Families, couples, and photography lovers all find something special here. And let’s be honest, you don’t often get the chance to see a European capital from the sky without hopping on a plane.

London Eye Tickets: Prices, Options and Booking

There are several types of London Eye tickets, depending on whether you want to skip the lines, treat yourself to a VIP experience, or combine your visit with other attractions.

General admission Eye Tickets: A Panoramic Experience at Your Own Pace

If you’re visiting London, the general admission London Eye tickets are perfect for enjoying the ride at your own pace while keeping your budget under control. Whether you want to secure a specific time slot, skip the queue, or have a little more flexibility, there are several options available.

Here are the main types of tickets:

Standard London Eye Ticket – The Most Affordable Option

If you don’t mind queuing, the Standard London Eye ticket is the cheapest way to ride (see details here). Keep in mind though that waiting times can sometimes reach up to two hours during peak periods. To avoid the crowds, I recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

• 30-minute rotation in a fully glazed capsule, 135 metres above the Thames
• Perfect to discover London’s most famous landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace
• Guaranteed entry on your chosen date

👉 From £29 online (compared to £39 at the ticket office) >>

London Eye Fast Track Ticket – Skip the Queue

If you hate waiting in line or are only in London for a short stay, the London Eye Fast Track ticket (see details here) is the best choice. It lets you bypass the long queues and save precious time for other activities in the capital.

• Priority entry at your selected time slot through a dedicated Fast Track line
• Ideal if you’re in a hurry or visiting during peak season when queues are longest

👉 From £44 online (compared to £54 at the ticket office) >>

Flexi Fast Track Ticket – Total Freedom

If you want maximum flexibility, the London Eye Flexi Fast Track ticket is your best option. With this ticket, you can ride the London Eye at any time on your chosen day in London – no need to worry about sticking to a fixed schedule.

• Come at any time you like on the selected date
• Priority entry via the Fast Track line with no time restrictions

👉 From £55 online (compared to £59 at the ticket office) >>

Deluxe Package – An Enhanced London Eye Experience

For something extra special, the London Eye Deluxe Package combines convenience with exclusive perks:

• Fast Track entry with no waiting in line
• An official printed London Eye guidebook with photos and details of the landmarks you’ll see
• A printed souvenir photo of your visit to take home

👉 From £70.40 online >> (only available on the English version of the official site, reservation required)

Important: Online London Eye tickets are always cheaper than buying at the counter. On top of lower prices, you’ll also get an instant e-ticket you can show on your phone, free rescheduling if your plans change, and guaranteed entry at your chosen time.

VIP London Eye Tickets: For an Exclusive and Unforgettable Experience

Want to make your London Eye visit even more special? The VIP tickets (check all options on this page) are designed for just that. Whether you dream of a romantic moment for two, a glass of champagne with a view, or even hiring an entire capsule for yourself, there are premium options that let you experience London in a unique way.

⚠️ Tip: Always keep the booking page in English when selecting VIP services, as some packages are not fully listed on other language version of the site.

Champagne Experience – Drinks with a View

If you want to add a touch of sparkle to your ride, this package lets you enjoy the London skyline with a glass of bubbly in hand.

• A glass of Moët & Chandon served onboard by a dedicated host
• Priority access via the Fast Track line
• VIP check-in and a 30-minute rotation in a shared capsule

👉 From £49 per person online (£59 at the ticket office) >>

Eye Lounge Experience – The Lounge + Capsule Combo

For an even more indulgent visit, start (or finish) your ride with a glass of Champagne in the Eye Lounge before boarding your capsule.

• A glass of Champagne in the exclusive Eye Lounge before or after your ride
• A second glass of Champagne served during your 30-minute rotation above London
• Fast Track entry included for seamless boarding

👉 From £75 per person online >>

Cupid’s Pod – For a Marriage Proposal or a Romantic Evening

If you’re looking for the ultimate romantic gesture, nothing beats the London skyline as the backdrop to your special moment.

• Private capsule for 2 people with a dedicated host on board
• A bottle of Moët & Chandon Rosé to share
• VIP check-in, Fast Track entry, and an intimate 30-minute ride above London

👉 From £775 for two people >>

Private London Eye Capsule – For Groups or Special Occasions

Want the capsule all to yourself? Whether it’s with family, friends or colleagues, a private pod makes the experience truly unforgettable.

• Exclusive hire of a capsule for 2 to 25 people
• VIP check-in, Fast Track entry and a private 30-minute rotation with panoramic views
• Option to pre-order alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks in advance

👉 From £850 per capsule >>

Proposal Pod – Say “Yes” Above London

Thinking about popping the question? The Proposal Pod turns the London Eye into one of the most unforgettable engagement spots in the world.

• A 30-minute private rotation for 2 guests
• Choice of three proposal packages, tailored to your style
• Personal London Eye host on board to make sure everything runs smoothly
• A bottle of Moët & Chandon Rosé to celebrate
• VIP check-in, Fast Track entry, and an official souvenir photograph of your special moment

👉 From £1,390 per capsule >>

These premium experiences are highly sought after and only available with prior booking. They’re perfect for celebrating a birthday, a proposal, or simply treating yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime moment above London.

London Eye Combo Tickets: The Best Options

If you want to enjoy several of London’s top attractions while saving money, go for a London Eye combo ticket. You can save up to 40% compared to buying separate tickets, and you’ll have 90 days to use your entries. Here are the most popular bundles:

London Eye + Madame Tussauds

A classic combo that mixes panoramic views with celebrity glamour.

• Access to the London Eye: a 30-minute rotation in a panoramic capsule with views of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and, on a clear day, even Windsor Castle.
• Entry to Madame Tussauds London: over 150 incredibly lifelike wax figures, from Harry Styles and Beyoncé to the Royal Family and Marvel superheroes.
• Tickets are valid for 90 days, so you can visit both attractions at your own pace.

👉 From £49 per adult online (instead of £78 if purchased separately) >>

London Eye + Madame Tussauds + SEA LIFE

The most complete package for a full day out in London, especially with kids.

• Access to the London Eye: a 30-minute ride on the iconic Ferris wheel with spectacular views of London from 135 metres up.
• Entry to Madame Tussauds London: strike a pose with your favourite stars and explore interactive zones like the Marvel 4D Experience.
• Entry to SEA LIFE London Aquarium: discover 14 themed zones and over 500 marine species, including sharks, rays and jellyfish.
• Perfect if you’re travelling with children or want to experience several sides of London in just one day.

👉 From £54 per adult online (instead of £117 if purchased separately) >>

London Eye + River Thames Cruise

The ultimate London experience: the city seen from the sky and the water.

• Access to the London Eye: soar above London with panoramic views over the capital.
• 40-minute circular sightseeing cruise on the Thames: admire Big Ben, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and Shakespeare’s Globe from the river.
• Audio guides available onboard to help you learn more about London’s fascinating history.
• Important: the reserved time slot applies to the cruise. You’ll need to book your London Eye ride separately.

👉 From £49 per adult online >>

London Eye + SEA LIFE London Aquarium

A perfect family combo, where the sky meets the sea.

• Access to the London Eye: a 30-minute ride with breathtaking 360° views over London.
• Entry to SEA LIFE London Aquarium: dive into one of Europe’s largest aquariums and explore an underwater world filled with wonder.
• Discover interactive tanks, walk through the glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, and learn more about marine conservation.
• An ideal duo if you want a mix of fun and discovery, especially popular with families travelling with children.

👉 From £49 per adult online (instead of £78 if purchased separately) >>

These London Eye combo tickets are perfect if you’re visiting London for 3 days and want to see as many attractions as possible without blowing your budget.

Which Website to Book Your London Eye Tickets?

Yes, you can buy your London Eye tickets directly at the ticket office… but I really don’t recommend it. It’s more expensive, you’ll face long queues, and you’re not guaranteed to find a free time slot on the day.

👉 The best option is always to book your London Eye tickets online, through one of these trusted platforms:

• The official London Eye website – reliable, easy to use, and often the cheapest option
• GetYourGuide – super convenient if you want to combine your ticket with other London attractions
• Tiqets – occasionally offers great promotions and discounts
• Headout – another trusted partner selling official London Eye tickets

🔐 Most of these platforms allow you to cancel or reschedule your booking up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to double-check the conditions when you book.

London Eye Ticket Prices in 2025: Comparison Guide

Here are the main types of London Eye tickets available, with their key benefits and the price differences between booking online (always the best option) and buying on-site (not recommended).

Tip: Always book online. Not only is it cheaper, but you’ll also get an instant e-ticket, guaranteed entry at your chosen time, and free rescheduling if your plans change.

Is the London Eye Included in London Sightseeing Passes?

Wondering if you can access the London Eye with a tourist pass? That’s a very good question, especially if you’re planning to visit several attractions during your stay. The answer is yes: some London passes do include (or let you add) London Eye tickets. Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice and get the best value for your sightseeing budget.

The London Eye in the Merlin Magical London Pass

If you’re looking for a pass that naturally includes the London Eye, the Merlin Magical London Pass is the one to go for.

Why? Because it’s built around the top attractions operated by Merlin Entertainments, the company behind the London Eye. With this pass, you also get access to:

• Madame Tussauds – the world-famous wax museum
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium – one of Europe’s largest aquariums
• Shrek’s Adventure – perfect for kids and families
• The London Dungeon – for thrill-seekers and history lovers

👉 With this pass, you can freely choose 2, 4 or all 5 attractions, saving up to 40% compared to buying separate tickets.

It’s especially interesting for families, since all these attractions are located close together around South Bank, near the London Eye. That means you can easily combine them in one or two days without wasting time on transport.

Merlin Magical Pass Prices in 2025 (per adult):

• 2 attractions: £49
• 4 attractions: £54
• 5 attractions: £59

You can order it directly on the official London Eye website via this page >>

👉 Tickets are valid for several weeks, so you don’t need to do everything on the same day.

⚠️ Insider tip: the best deals only appear on the English version of the official website (they’re not always shown on other language versions). So make sure your browser is set to English when booking.

The London Eye in the London Pass Plus

The London Pass by Go City is probably the most famous sightseeing pass for London visitors. With it, you can access more than 90 attractions, including must-sees like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and even a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour.

👉 But here’s the catch: the London Eye is NOT included in the standard London Pass.

If you want to ride the iconic Ferris wheel, you’ll need to upgrade to the enhanced version: the London Pass Plus (check the latest price here).

The London Pass Plus includes everything from the standard pass, but also adds four highly popular premium experiences:

• The London Eye (of course 😉)
• The View from the Shard – another incredible panoramic spot in London
• Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off – here valid for a full 2 days instead of 1
• Madame Tussauds – the city’s legendary wax museum

When it comes to pricing, the standard London Pass starts at £79 for 1 day, while the London Pass Plus begins at £109 for 1 day. That’s roughly a £30 difference but it quickly pays for itself if you were already planning to do at least two of these “premium” attractions.

👉 You can book your London Pass Plus directly on the official Go City website >>

London Eye Opening Times and the Best Time to Visit

When planning your trip to the London Eye, two common questions always come up: “What time does it open?” and “When is the best time to go to avoid the crowds and get the best view?”

Spoiler alert: yes, there are better times to visit. And no, you don’t want to find yourself stuck in a two-hour queue on a Saturday at 2pm.

London Eye Opening Hours in 2025

Opening hours vary slightly depending on the season and school holidays, but here are the standard times:

• Open every day of the year except Christmas Day (25 December)
• Standard hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (last entry at 5:45 pm)
• During summer and school holidays: extended opening from 10:00 am – 8:30 pm
• Special hours apply on New Year’s Eve

👉 Always double-check the exact London Eye hours on the official website before your visit, especially if you’re planning to book a late afternoon or evening slot.

Best Times of Day to Visit the London Eye

Want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a spectacular view of London from 135 metres up? Here are the best time slots for visiting the London Eye:

Morning, right at opening time

• Fewer people and shorter queues
• Soft morning light that makes the city glow
• Perfect if you want to continue your day with Big Ben, Westminster, or a walk along South Bank afterwards

Late afternoon or at sunset

• The most magical moment of the day
• London bathed in golden light, with the Thames shimmering below
• In winter, you can even watch the city light up as night falls
• Without a doubt, the most romantic time to ride the London Eye

Times to avoid

• Between 1:00 pm and 3:30 pm, especially in July–August and on spring weekends
• This is peak visiting time, meaning longer queues, fuller capsules, and a less relaxed experience

Visiting the London Eye at Night

Riding the London Eye at night is a completely different experience—and one that many visitors overlook.

Once the sun goes down, London transforms into a sea of glittering lights. From the top of the wheel, you’ll see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament beautifully illuminated, the Thames reflecting the city’s lights, and landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard glowing against the night sky.

It’s less crowded than during the day, which means a calmer atmosphere and more space in the capsules to move around and take photos. If you’re travelling as a couple, this is hands down one of the most romantic ways to see the city.

Tip: book a late slot in advance, especially in winter, when the ride after dark coincides perfectly with the extended London Eye opening hours.

Where Is the London Eye and How to Get There Easily?

Good news: the London Eye is super easy to reach. Whether you’re already in central London or coming from another part of the city, there are plenty of quick and affordable ways to get there without getting lost.

Exact Location of the London Eye

The London Eye (also known as the London Millennium Wheel) is located on the South Bank of the River Thames. You’ll find it right across from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament—so trust me, you can’t miss it.

📍 Full address: Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB

To help you get your bearings:

• Just west of Westminster Bridge
• Right next to SEA LIFE London Aquarium and The London Dungeon
• Facing the Palace of Westminster, offering one of the most iconic views in the city

Photo tip: For the best London Eye photos, head to Westminster Bridge or the Victoria Embankment on the north side of the Thames. You’ll get postcard-perfect shots of the wheel and the river.

By Tube

The London Underground (Tube) is your best ally to reach the London Eye quickly.

Closest stations:

• Waterloo (Jubilee, Bakerloo, Northern, Waterloo & City lines) → 5 minutes’ walk
• Westminster (District, Circle, Jubilee lines) → 7 minutes’ walk across the bridge

👉 If you want to combine your visit to the London Eye with a stop at Big Ben or Westminster Abbey, get off at Westminster station. You’ll enjoy a mini city tour on your way to the wheel.

By Bus

Several bus routes stop close to the London Eye. It’s a handy option if you want to avoid the Tube or if your accommodation isn’t well connected to the Underground.

Nearby lines:

• 211, 77, 381 → stop at County Hall
• RV1 (sightseeing bus) → goes directly to South Bank
• 453 → great option if you’re coming from Marylebone station

Quick Tip: take a seat on the upper deck of a red double-decker bus for a great view of the Thames and London landmarks.

On Foot or by Bike

• On foot: If you’re already in central London (Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, Westminster…), you can easily walk to the London Eye in 15–25 minutes. The walk along South Bank is particularly enjoyable, with street performers and beautiful views over the city.
• By bike: Use a Santander Cycles bike (London’s public bike hire scheme). There are several docking stations around South Bank. You can ride right up to the area, but you’ll need to walk the last few metres.

By Train

The nearest mainline station is London Waterloo, well connected with both regional and national trains. If you’re arriving from another English city for a day trip, this is the simplest way to reach the London Eye.

How Long Does the London Eye Ride Take and What to Expect?

Worried you might spend half your day on London’s giant wheel? Don’t worry, the London Eye experience is short, smooth, and very well organised. Here’s what you need to know so there are no surprises.

Duration of a Full London Eye Rotation

A complete ride on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. That’s how long it takes for one of the 32 glass capsules to make a full 360° rotation at an ultra-slow pace, roughly 26 cm per second.

This calm rhythm means you have plenty of time to:

• Admire breathtaking panoramic views of London at 135 metres high
• Take as many London Eye photos as you like, both of the wheel itself and from inside the capsule
• Get a better sense of London’s layout by spotting the city’s main landmarks from above

🎯 Good to know: The wheel doesn’t stop for boarding. It moves slowly enough for visitors to get on and off while it keeps turning. The only exceptions are for guests with reduced mobility or families with very young children, in which case the staff may temporarily pause the capsule.

Allow Extra Time for Queues

Even though the ride itself lasts just 30 minutes, you should always plan a bit of extra time for:

• Security checks (bag inspection before boarding)
• Waiting for your time slot (depending on how busy it is)
• Queuing, especially if you haven’t booked in advance

With a Standard ticket, expect around 30 to 60 minutes of waiting time during peak season.

With a Fast Track ticket, you’ll use a dedicated priority line, usually no more than 15 minutes of waiting.

What Happens During the London Eye Ride

Once inside your capsule, you’ll enjoy:

• A breathtaking view over London : up to 40 km into the distance on a clear day
• Interactive panels and tablets in each pod to help you spot and identify landmarks
• A calm, awe-inspiring experience, whether you’re visiting with family, as a couple, or on your own

Can You Get Off and Back On?

No. Once you’re inside the capsule, you stay on board for the full 30-minute rotation. There’s no stop at the top or midway break. But with views like this, time really does fly!

What Is the Lastminute.com London Eye?

History and Construction of London’s Millennium Wheel

Officially called The London Eye, this giant Ferris wheel is also known as the Millennium Wheel, because it was inaugurated on 31 December 1999 to mark the start of the new millennium.

The name wasn’t chosen at random: the wheel was designed as a symbol of the year 2000 celebrations. It was conceived by the husband-and-wife architect team David Marks and Julia Barfield (Marks Barfield Architects), who imagined this extraordinary structure. At the time, it was nothing less than the tallest observation wheel in the world.

Today, the attraction is sponsored by Lastminute.com, hence its full name: the Lastminute.com London Eye.

The London Eye sits proudly on the South Bank of the Thames, right in the heart of the city. Directly opposite the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben.

Its construction was an engineering feat. The wheel was first assembled in sections on floating barges, then carefully raised upright across the Thames. While the official inauguration took place in December 1999, the first capsules didn’t open to the public until March 2000.

Since then, the London Eye has become one of the UK’s most visited attractions, drawing over 3 million visitors every year. Not bad for what was originally designed as a temporary structure!

How Tall Is the London Eye? Height and Dimensions

Wondering just how big the London Eye really is? Hold on tight: the wheel stands at 135 metres (443 feet) tall and has a circumference of 424 metres (1,391 feet).

When it first opened, it was the tallest observation wheel in the world. It has since been overtaken by the Singapore Flyer (165 m) and the High Roller in Las Vegas (167 m). But the London Eye remains one of the most iconic and impressive in the world.

What You Can See from the London Eye

What makes the London Eye truly special is the 360° panoramic view over London. On a clear day, you can see up to 40 km (25 miles) into the distance. Not bad, right?

From the top of the wheel, you can spot:

• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament (directly opposite)
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• The Shard (London’s tallest skyscraper)
• Buckingham Palace
• Tower Bridge (look east to find it)
• Wembley Stadium
• Tate Modern museum
• Windsor Castle (visible on clear days)

And if you time it right, you’ll capture incredible London Eye photos at sunset, when golden light sets the rooftops of London ablaze.

It’s also one of the best spots for iconic photos of Big Ben with the London Eye in the background, especially from the very top of the capsule. If you’re an Instagram fan, get your camera or smartphone ready, you’re going to love it!

My Opinion on the London Eye: Is It Really Worth It?

So, is the London Eye really worth it—or is it just another tourist trap like you’ll find in every big city? Spoiler alert: I absolutely loved the experience. And here’s why, with full honesty.

Why It’s an Iconic London Experience

It doesn’t get more symbolic than the London Eye. Nicknamed the Millennium Wheel, this futuristic Ferris wheel has become one of London’s most recognisable landmarks, right up there with Big Ben and the Tower of London. And unlike what some people think, it’s not just a pretty postcard backdrop.

Riding the London Eye means:

• Seeing London in all its splendour, from 135 metres (443 feet) up
• Understanding the city’s geography at a glance, from Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge
• Enjoying a calm, almost suspended moment in a silent, panoramic capsule
• Experiencing a European capital from above, without even stepping on a plane

Honestly, it’s not the kind of opportunity you get every day, which makes it all the more special.

Is the London Eye Worth the Price?

This is the big question. With a standard adult ticket costing around £29 (check the latest price here), it’s definitely an investment for a 30-minute ride.

But let’s compare it with other famous landmarks around the world:

• Eiffel Tower in Paris → €22.60 to the top
• Empire State Building in New York → $44
• Sagrada Familia in Barcelona → €26

👉 The London Eye price is actually right in line with other world-class attractions, and in some cases even cheaper, especially when you consider the combo ticket options.

So, is it expensive? Yes, a bit.

Is it overpriced? Not really.

Is it worth it? Absolutely, especially if it’s your first time in London.

For Families

If you’re visiting London with kids, the London Eye is a fantastic family-friendly activity:

• Stress-free: it’s calm, safe, and easy to access
• Children love the feeling of “flying like a bird” over the city
• Great opportunity for family photos with London’s skyline as a backdrop
• The ride lasts 30 minutes—just the right amount of time to keep kids engaged without boredom setting in

Bonus: it’s also a great alternative on days when the London weather looks uncertain.

For Couples

Looking for a romantic moment in London? The London Eye at sunset is unbeatable. As the light reflects off the Thames and the city’s monuments slowly light up, the mood couldn’t be more perfect.

There are even special couple experiences:

• A private capsule for two (big budget, but unforgettable)
• A Champagne Experience to toast above the city skyline

For couples, this is truly a “wow” activity, something to tick off your London bucket list at least once in a lifetime.

For Photography and Panorama Lovers

Love capturing spectacular views? The London Eye is a dream spot for photography.

• Shoot 360° panoramic photos of London’s skyline
• Enjoy completely unobstructed views. No fences or bars in the way of your lens
• Choose your time slot: bright blue skies, a golden sunset, or even a sparkling night view

And don’t worry if you don’t have a pro camera, your smartphone will be more than enough to take amazing shots from the capsule

What I Liked / What I Wish I Knew Before

What I liked:

• The unbeatable view over Big Ben, Westminster and the Thames
• The comfort and safety of the glass capsules
• The slow pace that gives you plenty of time to enjoy the moment
• The ability to book in advance and skip most of the queue

What I wish I knew before:

• There can still be a short wait, even with a timed-entry ticket
• The “Champagne Experience” is fun, but the glass is on the small side 😅
• The best time to go? Late afternoon—so you can see the city in daylight and then at sunset

👉 In short: if it’s your first time in London, the London Eye is a must-do. Yes, it’s touristy. But it’s also a unique, memorable way to see the city from above—definitely worth ticking off your list.

Things to Do Around the London Eye

Planning a visit to the London Eye during your trip? Great choice. Even better—you’ll be right in the middle of one of London’s most vibrant tourist areas, packed with attractions, museums, and iconic landmarks just a few steps away. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, or with kids, you can easily spend half a day—or even a full day—around South Bank.

Attractions Right Next to the London Eye

The London Eye is rarely visited on its own. Just next door, along the South Bank of the Thames, you’ll find several other major London attractions, each of which takes less than two hours to explore. Even better: if you book a combo ticket with the London Eye, you can save up to 40% compared to buying separate tickets. Here are the must-sees:

SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Located directly beneath the London Eye, the SEA LIFE London Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the UK. Home to more than 600 species of marine life, it features an impressive underwater tunnel, sharks, rays, jellyfish, and even penguins.

It’s a perfect family activity, especially with younger kids. A visit takes around 90 minutes, and if you book a London Eye + SEA LIFE combo ticket, you’ll save both time and money.

The London Dungeon

In the mood for some thrills and dark history? The London Dungeon takes you back into the city’s grisly past with immersive sets, live actors in costume, and plenty of special effects.

It’s not suitable for young children, but it’s great fun for teens and adults who enjoy a mix of history and scares. The experience lasts about 90 minutes, and combo tickets with the London Eye are also available.

Shrek’s Adventure! London

A little further along the same riverside walkway, you’ll find Shrek’s Adventure! London—an interactive experience inspired by DreamWorks films. Expect immersive sets, special effects, live actors, and plenty of fun references to Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Madagascar.

It’s definitely designed with families in mind, especially kids aged 4–12. And just like the others, it’s available as part of a combo pass with the London Eye.

Walks and Landmarks Near the London Eye

If you’d rather stretch your legs and enjoy the city in the open air, you’re in luck. The area around the London Eye is perfect for walking, with iconic views and symbolic landmarks all within a 10-minute walk.

Big Ben & Westminster

Cross Westminster Bridge, located right in front of the London Eye, and you’ll find yourself face to face with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. This is one of the most famous panoramas in London and a must-stop for photo lovers.

Just a few steps further is Westminster Abbey, the site of royal coronations and many of Britain’s most important national ceremonies. If you’re interested in history, it’s a visit well worth making.

Thames River Cruise

At the foot of the London Eye, you can hop on a Thames river cruise, with sightseeing boats that showcase London’s landmarks from the water.

It’s the perfect activity to follow your London Eye ride, as it lets you see the city from a whole new perspective. Some tickets even combine the two (the London Eye + River Cruise option).

The boat trip lasts around 40 minutes, with English commentary. It’s calm, scenic, and a great way to rest your legs while still sightseeing. You can also check for an Hop on Hop off London Boat Tours.

Walk Along South Bank

Finally, don’t miss a stroll along the South Bank, the riverside path stretching from the London Eye all the way to Tower Bridge. It’s one of the most pleasant areas in London to explore on foot, full of street food stalls, street performers, markets, and stunning views across the river.

Along the way, you’ll pass cultural highlights like the Southbank Centre, the Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, as well as plenty of cosy spots to eat or enjoy a drink on a terrace.

London Eye FAQ – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Still have questions before booking your London Eye tickets? Here are the answers to the most common queries travelers ask me. Simple, practical, and reliable if you’re planning your trip to London.

Do I need to book London Eye tickets in advance?

Yes, it’s highly recommended, especially during weekends and high season. The London Eye welcomes over 3 million visitors a year, and without a booking you could be waiting several hours… or miss out altogether. By booking online, you secure your timeslot, skip unnecessary waiting, and avoid bad surprises. This is particularly important if you want to ride at a specific time like sunset.

Can I cancel or reschedule my London Eye ticket?

Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. However, you can reschedule the date and time of your visit up to 1 hour before arrival via the official Booking Portal.

Can I bring a stroller on the London Eye?

Yes, but strollers must be folded before boarding the capsule for safety reasons. There’s also a designated area at the entrance if you prefer to leave it. Babies are welcome and travel free if they’re under 3 years old. For toddlers, consider a baby carrier to make the experience more comfortable.

Does the London Eye close when it rains?

No – the attraction stays open in the rain. The capsules are fully enclosed, air-conditioned, and transparent, so you’ll still enjoy a 360° view of London even on a rainy day. The only exception is during extreme weather (like high winds or storms), when the Eye may close temporarily for safety – but that’s rare.

Is the London Eye suitable for children?

Absolutely. It’s one of the best family-friendly activities in London. Kids love spotting landmarks from above, the capsules are safe and stable, and the 30-minute ride is just long enough to keep them entertained without getting restless. There’s no minimum age, and children under 3 go free.

Is the London Eye suitable for pregnant visitors?

Yes. The capsules are spacious and comfortable with seating available. Toilets are conveniently located in the ticket office next door. Since the ride lasts around 30 minutes, pre-booking is recommended to avoid waiting too long. A Fast Track ticket is also a great option for quicker boarding.

Are there toilets at the London Eye?

Yes. Toilets are located inside the ticket office building near the VIP desk. You’ll find men’s and women’s toilets downstairs, plus an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities at ground level.

Why does the London Eye close in January?

The London Eye usually closes for a few days in January for annual maintenance. Always check the official opening hours page before your visit.

Is there WiFi at the London Eye?

Yes. Free WiFi is available in the main ticket hall under the name “London Eye Guest.”

Is there luggage storage at the London Eye?

Yes, storage facilities are available at £5 per item per day (items must be collected by 7 pm). Overnight storage is charged at £25 per item. Note that suitcases and large bags are not permitted inside the capsules.

What are the security rules at the London Eye?

All guests must pass through a security check before boarding. Certain items are prohibited (sharp objects, alcohol, oversized luggage, etc.). For the full list, consult the official Health & Safety page of the London Eye.