London Eye
London's iconic observation wheel offering 360-degree panoramic views from 135 meters above the Thames.
The London Eye is an iconic 135-meter tall observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of London's skyline and landmarks. Each of the 32 sealed glass capsules accommodates up to 25 people, providing an unforgettable 30-minute rotation that showcases Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and beyond. A must-visit attraction for first-time visitors and those seeking a unique perspective of the capital.
A brief summary to lastminute.com London Eye
- Riverside Building, County Hall, London, SE1 7PB, GB
- +442079678021
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to save up to 30 percent and secure your preferred time slot. Pre-booking also allows you to skip the on-site queue and proceed directly to your designated boarding time.
- Visit early in the morning on a weekday outside school holidays for the shortest queues and clearest skies. Alternatively, visit later in the day toward closing time for a quieter experience with beautiful sunset or night views.
- Consider upgrading to a fast-track ticket to reduce queue times from 20-30 minutes to just 5-10 minutes, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the views and exploring nearby attractions.
- Plan your visit for a clear day to maximize visibility of London's landmarks. On clear days, you can see up to 40 kilometers, revealing Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey.
- Combine your London Eye visit with nearby attractions using multi-attraction passes that bundle entry to Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE, The London Dungeon, and other South Bank venues for better value.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground (Tube)
Waterloo station is the closest tube stop, located approximately 400 meters (5-minute walk) from the London Eye. The Northern, Bakerloo, Jubilee, and Waterloo & City lines all serve this station. Journey times from central London vary from 5-15 minutes depending on your starting point. Standard adult fares range from £1.75 to £3.00 per journey using contactless payment or Oyster cards.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the South Bank area near the London Eye, including routes 1, 26, 76, 77, 87, 88, 91, 109, 139, 159, 168, 171, 188, 211, 381, and 507. Journey times from central London typically range from 15-30 minutes depending on traffic and your starting location. Adult fares are £1.75 for a single journey or £2.80 for a daily cap using contactless payment.
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River Boat
Thames river boats operate from various piers including Westminster, Tower, and Embankment, providing scenic journeys to Waterloo Pier near the London Eye. Journey times range from 15-40 minutes depending on departure point. Fares typically range from £6.00 to £12.00 per person for single journeys, with various pass options available for multiple journeys.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Black cabs and ride-sharing services (Uber, Bolt) operate throughout London and can deliver you directly to the London Eye entrance on County Hall. Journey times from central London vary from 10-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Fares typically range from £8.00 to £25.00 depending on your starting location and time of day.
lastminute.com London Eye location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about lastminute.com London Eye
A Modern Icon on the Thames
The London Eye stands as one of the world's most recognizable observation wheels, dominating the South Bank of the River Thames since its opening in 2000. Rising 135 meters into the London sky, this architectural marvel was originally called the Millennium Wheel and has become an inseparable part of the city's identity. Located opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the wheel offers visitors an unparalleled vantage point from which to survey the entire capital. The structure's elegant design—a massive cantilevered observation wheel supported by a single pylon—has made it a symbol of contemporary London, blending seamlessly with the historic landmarks that surround it.The Experience of a 30-Minute Rotation
Each journey aboard the London Eye takes approximately 30 minutes for a complete rotation, during which passengers ascend gradually to the wheel's highest point. The 32 sealed glass capsules rotate continuously at a gentle pace, allowing visitors to move freely within their pod and capture views from every angle. On clear days, the visibility extends up to 40 kilometers, revealing landmarks such as Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey. The experience is designed to be leisurely and contemplative rather than thrilling, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The glass construction of each capsule ensures unobstructed 360-degree views, while the slow rotation means there is no sensation of height or movement that might cause discomfort.Seasonal Variations and Optimal Visiting Conditions
The London Eye operates year-round with seasonal variations in opening hours. During peak season (April to August), the wheel typically opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 8:30 PM, while winter months (November to February) see hours from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The experience varies dramatically depending on weather and time of day. Early morning visits offer soft, clear lighting ideal for photography, with minimal crowds and the city bathed in gentle sunlight. Sunset visits provide a magical transition as London transforms from daylight to darkness, with the city's landmarks illuminated against the twilight sky. Night rides showcase the capital's famous lights and create a romantic atmosphere, with the London Eye itself illuminated as part of the spectacle. Clear skies are essential for maximizing views, making weather a crucial consideration when planning your visit.Navigating Crowds and Queue Times
As one of London's most popular attractions, the London Eye attracts substantial crowds, particularly during weekends, school holidays, and summer months. Standard queue times typically range from 20 to 30 minutes on quiet days, though peak periods can see waits exceeding one hour. Fast-track tickets reduce queue times to approximately 5 to 10 minutes, allowing visitors to bypass the standard queue and board more quickly. The quietest times to visit are weekday mornings outside school holidays and later in the day as closing time approaches. Advance online booking is strongly recommended and often provides savings of up to 30 percent compared to purchasing tickets on-site. Timed entry slots are mandatory, with visitors required to join their designated queue at the time indicated on their ticket.Accessibility and Practical Considerations
The London Eye is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring assisted wheelchair access, automatic doors, flat routes from the parking area to the entrance, and temporary ramps available upon request. Each glass capsule requires a minimum of two adults for operation, though private pod options are available for those seeking a more exclusive experience. The attraction is closed only on Christmas Day and for a few days in January for annual maintenance. Visitors should note that the time printed on their ticket represents when they should join the queue, not when they will board. The facility offers various amenities and is located within easy reach of public transportation, with Waterloo station just a short walk away.Combination Experiences and Extended Visits
The London Eye serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the South Bank and can be combined with nearby attractions. Multi-attraction passes bundle the London Eye with other popular venues such as Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE London Aquarium, The London Dungeon, and Shrek's Adventure, offering value for visitors planning extended stays. River cruises departing from the same location provide an alternative or complementary perspective of London's waterfront. The location's proximity to cultural institutions, restaurants, and entertainment venues makes it an ideal hub for a full day of sightseeing and exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
County Hall
0.1 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Lion
0.3 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Chindit Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.4 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
The Cenotaph
0.5 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
The Women of World War II
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.5 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
King Charles Street
0.5 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
King Charles Street Arch
0.5 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Dover House
0.5 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Westminster Hall
0.5 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.5 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Palace of Westminster
0.6 km
Discover the grandeur of the Palace of Westminster, an iconic symbol of British democracy and a must-visit landmark in London.
Parliament Sq
0.6 km
Where Britain's democratic institutions converge, history breathes, and voices are heard.
10 Downing Street
0.6 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
Unmissable attractions to see
London Eye Ticket Office
0.0 km
Discover London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, an unmissable experience offering breathtaking views of the city's landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
The Queen's Walk
0.0 km
Explore The Queen's Walk in London for stunning river views, rich history, and vibrant culture along the iconic Thames River promenade.
Build-A-Bear Workshop - Westminster Bridge
0.1 km
Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
0.1 km
A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
The London Dungeon
0.1 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
Jubilee Gardens
0.1 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
Shrek's Adventure London
0.1 km
Step into a magical world of fairy tales and fun with Shrek and friends on London’s South Bank, perfect for families and kids aged 6 to 12.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
0.2 km
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.3 km
Experience the best of London's nightlife with laughter and drinks at The Boat Show Comedy Club, set in the unique Tattershall Castle.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.3 km
A powerful bronze and granite tribute on London’s Victoria Embankment honoring the heroic RAF pilots of the 1940 Battle of Britain.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.3 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.3 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
Memorial wall
0.3 km
A heartfelt 500-metre mural along the Thames commemorating every UK life lost to COVID-19 with over 245,000 hand-painted hearts.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.3 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
Westminster Bridge
0.3 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning views from Westminster Bridge, an iconic London landmark linking culture and architecture.
Essential places to dine
OKAN South Bank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Archduke
0.3 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.3 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
0.3 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.3 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.4 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
The Garden
0.5 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.5 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Bustronome London
0.6 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.8 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Rules
0.9 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.0 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.2 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Browns of London
0.3 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.3 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.5 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.5 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Gifts of London
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
0.7 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
The Giftree London
0.7 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.8 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Sugar And Style
0.8 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
j-me original design ltd
0.9 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.0 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
London Transport Museum - Shop
1.0 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
1.0 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Champagne Bar
0.0 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.2 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.2 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.3 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Primo Bar, London
0.3 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.3 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.4 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.4 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.6 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Old Shades
0.6 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Understudy
0.6 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Westminster Arms
0.8 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.6 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
TSQ Club
0.9 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.1 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.1 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
1.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tiger Tiger London
1.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
1.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.2 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Ivy Club
1.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.3 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Scotch of St James
1.3 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Romantic
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Futuristic Looks
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Iconic Views
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
