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London Eye - Flying over the London City |
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London Eye Location
The futuristic London Eye which helped to herald in the new Millennium stands on the South Bank of the River Thames and is one of London’s more modern attractions. Jubilee Gardens is right in front of the London Eye, while also close by are the London Aquarium and Westminster Bridge which leads to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
History
The brainchild of husband and wife team David Marks and Julia Barfield, the London Eye was the world’s largest observation wheel at the time of its creation. The undertaking of bringing to life this colossal structure was no mean feat and the project spanned a total of six years and involved the assistance and resources of 5 other European countries. In total the London Eye required 1,700 tons of steel, while once completed it became the largest structure to be raised (to a vertical position) in a single operation. Opened in 2000, the London Eye’s 32 innovative and air conditioned capsules take up to 15,000 visitors a day on an unforgettable journey 135 metres above the London landscape.
Things to see and do
The London Eye’s 32 capsules can each accommodate up to 25 people as it takes them on a magical 30 minute (wheel rotates at 0.26 metres per second)o;flight” of a lifetime. Due to the special design of the capsules, passengers have unrestricted 360 degree views of London stretching up to 25 miles. While attractions such as the Palace of Westminster, Windsor Castle and St Paul`s Cathedral are easy to spot, not to be missed is an opportunity to take in London at night or during sunset when the city is spectacularly set ablaze with the fading rays of the sun.
The London Eye also has several special packages which give visitors a chance to book certain capsules which are ideal for a children’s party, private function, romantic getaway or even an intimate and extra special wedding ceremony. Visitors can additionally take the 40 minute London Eye River Cruise Experience along the River Thames.
Getting there / tickets
Tickets can be purchased at the County Hall South Bank building which is located right next to the London Eye. While those looking to beat the queue have the option of booking online or by phone (credit card and booking reference number need to be brought in order to redeem tickets), passengers are advised to arrive half an hour before the time of departure (the queue to board the London Eye takes about 30 minutes). Disabled passengers also have full access to the London Eye. Visitors looking to take the London Eye River Cruise Experience can buy tickets at the County Hall building, while boats depart from the Waterloo Millennium Pier which is situated below the London Eye.
Nearest Tube Stations to the London Eye
Waterloo London Underground Station (5 minute walk) Westminster London Underground Station (5 minute walk) Embankment London Underground Station (7 minute walk)
Other close by Public Transport Services
Waterloo Train Station (5 minute walk) Charing Cross Train Station (15 minutes) Bus services: Numbers 211, 24 and 11
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