The London Eye is a huge Ferris wheel in London, next to the River Thames. It’s really tall—135 meters high! It opened in March 2000 and is one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world. Lots of people visit it because it’s so popular. When you ride it, you can see amazing views of the city. It’s close to a famous bridge called Westminster Bridge.
Table of Contents
History, Design & Construction
The London Eye was designed by two architects named Julia Barfield and David Marks. It’s a special Ferris wheel because it’s held up on just one side by a big, strong A-shaped frame.
The wheel was built in pieces and brought to the site by boats on the River Thames. Then, all the pieces were put together like a giant puzzle.
The steel for the wheel came from the UK, the cables came from Italy, and other parts came from different countries in Europe. The wheel is held up by strong steel cables, which make it look like a huge bicycle wheel.
In 2006, they added colorful LED lights so the wheel can light up in different colors. Lots of experts from all over the world helped build the London Eye!
Inauguration
The London Eye was officially opened by the Prime Minister, Tony Blair, on December 31, 1999. At first, it was only supposed to stay for five years as a temporary attraction
But in 2002, the local council decided to keep it forever, and it became one of London’s most famous landmarks. By 2008, over 30 million people had ridden the London Eye, making it one of the most popular and well-known attractions in the city!
London Eye experience
The London Eye has 32 egg-shaped capsules for passengers. Each capsule is really heavy—10 tonnes!—and can fit up to 25 people.
Inside the capsules, people can walk around and enjoy amazing views of London. The wheel moves very slowly, so people can get on and off while it’s still turning.
The capsules are numbered from 1 to 32, but there’s no number 13 because some people think it’s unlucky.
In 2009, the capsules were improved with new equipment after spending £12.5 million. In 2013, one capsule was named the Coronation Capsule to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s 60th anniversary as queen.
On the London Eye’s 20th birthday in 2020, some capsules were turned into fun, themed experiences for visitors to enjoy!
Ownership History
At first, the London Eye was owned by its designers and two big companies: The Tussauds Group and British Airways.
In 2005, Tussauds bought British Airways’ part, so they owned it all. Then, in 2007, a company called The Blackstone Group bought Tussauds and took over the London Eye.
In 2009, the London Eye got a new name: The Merlin Entertainments London Eye. They also added a fun 4D cinema experience for visitors.
In 2015, Coca-Cola became the official sponsor of the London Eye. Then, in 2020, a company called lastminute.com became the new official sponsor.
Visiting Hours
- Friday: 10 AM–8:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–8:30 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Monday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–6 PM
Conclusion
The London Eye is a huge Ferris wheel that lets you see all of London in every direction—360 degrees! It’s located at Riverside Building, County Hall, in London, UK.
This awesome attraction gives visitors a chance to see how beautiful London looks from high up in the sky. That’s why it’s a place everyone wants to visit when they come to London!
London Eye ticket prices
London Eye offers various ticket options
Ticket Details
| Ticket Option | Online Price |
| Standard Ticket | £29 per adult |
| Flexi Fast Track | £49 per adult |
| Fast Track | £44 per adult |
| River Cruise + London Eye | £46 per adult |
| London Eye + Madame Tussauds + SEA LIFE | £60 per adult |
| London Eye + Madame Tussauds | £50 per adult |
| Champagne Experience | £62 per person |
| London Eye + Big Bus Tour | £50 per adult |
