London Eye — About, History, Tours & Visitor Info (2025)

Plan your ride on the London Eye. Learn key facts and history, compare standard vs. fast-track tickets, see top combos, and get clear tips on timings, queues, accessibility, and the best photo spots.

About the London Eye

The London Eye is a 135-meter observation wheel on the South Bank of the Thames. Each sealed, air-conditioned capsule offers sweeping views across Westminster, the City, and beyond. A full rotation takes about 30 minutes, making it one of the easiest ways to see London’s skyline in a single experience.

What You’ll See

Landmarks include Big Ben & Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the Shard, St Paul’s, and on clear days even Wembley. Night rides show a lit-up skyline; golden hour is perfect for photos.

Why It’s Special

The Eye’s 32 high-visibility capsules (numbered 1–33, skipping 13) move continuously, so boarding is smooth. Choose Fast-Track to skip the main queue, or bundle with nearby attractions to save time and money.

Brief History & Timeline

  • 1998–1999 — Built for the millennium; designed by Marks Barfield Architects.
  • March 2000 — Officially opens as the “Millennium Wheel,” quickly becoming a modern London icon.
  • 2006–2015 — Upgrades to lighting and operations; sponsorship changes; renamed “The London Eye.”
  • 2010s–2020s — Becomes one of the world’s most-visited paid attractions; improves step-free access and guest flow.

Note: The Eye operates in most weather. It may pause in high winds or for routine checks—staff will advise on rescheduling or refunds according to your ticket policy.

Tickets, Fast-Track & Combos

Standard or Fast-Track Entry

Standard lines suit flexible schedules. Fast-Track uses a shorter line—ideal on weekends, holidays, and peak hours. Both include the same 30-minute rotation and skyline views.

Champagne Experience

Upgrade your flight with a glass of bubbly. Same skyline, fewer people per capsule, hosted service, and a special treat feel.

Eye + Madame Tussauds

Popular money-saving combo with flexible dates. Great for families or first-timers pairing two classic London sights.

Thames Cruise + Optional Eye

Add a 40–60 minute river cruise for commentary on bridges and landmarks. Pair with the Eye for an easy half-day plan.

Good to know: Most tickets are mobile-friendly. Many products offer free cancellation up to 24 hours—confirm on the booking page.

What You’ll Experience

On the Eye

Step into a large, climate-controlled capsule with 360° glass. The Eye rarely stops; it moves slowly so boarding is smooth. Interactive maps highlight what you’re seeing as you rise over the river and rooftops.

  1. Full rotation ~30 minutes.
  2. Great for sunrise/sunset and after-dark photos.
  3. Fast-Track reduces queuing at busy times.

Around the Eye

The Eye sits by County Hall (SEA LIFE London) near Westminster Bridge. Walk the South Bank for street performers, cafés, and riverside views to Big Ben and beyond.

Photography: tripods are not allowed in capsules. Clean your lens for crisp night shots; avoid reflections by shooting close to the glass.

Insider Tips

Best Time

For fewer crowds, choose weekday mornings. For dramatic light, book golden hour or after dark when the skyline glows.

Families & Accessibility

Step-free access and staff assistance are available. Wheelchair users should pre-book a time. Strollers are allowed (staff may ask to fold at busy times).

Plan Ahead

Check live hours—they vary by season and holidays. Fast-Track is worth it on weekends and school breaks. Arrive 15–20 minutes before your slot.

Visitor Cheatsheet

Location

Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB (South Bank).

Nearest Stations

Waterloo (closest), Westminster, Embankment.

Opening

Typical daily hours with seasonal variations; extended hours in peak seasons and holidays.

Duration

Allow 60–90 mins including security and boarding; rotation itself ~30 mins.

Tickets

Mobile tickets accepted. Fast-Track available. Combos with Tussauds/SEA LIFE save time and cost.

What to Bring

Charged phone (e-tickets/photos), light layers, and patience on peak days; light rain jacket if needed.

Ready to Ride the London Eye?

Pick Standard or Fast-Track, add Champagne or a river cruise, and enjoy London’s skyline from the South Bank’s most iconic viewpoint.