lastminute.com London Eye
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline from the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel.
The London Eye, standing 135 metres tall on the South Bank of the River Thames, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline. This giant cantilevered observation wheel, built to celebrate the millennium, provides a slow 30-minute rotation in glass pods, perfect for spotting landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St Paul’s Cathedral. Open daily except Christmas Day and January maintenance, it features special festive experiences and fast-track entry options.
A brief summary to lastminute.com London Eye
- Riverside Building, County Hall, London, SE1 7PB, GB
- +442079678021
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time and avoid long queues.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for quieter boarding and better light for photos.
- Consider upgrading to Fast Track tickets for priority access and shorter waiting times.
- During the festive season, enjoy special experiences like Santa in the Sky and Festive Afternoon Tea.
- Combine your London Eye ride with a Thames River cruise for a fuller sightseeing experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, approximately a 10-minute walk to the London Eye. Trains run frequently on the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines. Ticket prices vary by zone but typically range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on travelcard or contactless payment.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the South Bank area, including routes 211, 381, and RV1. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Single bus fares are around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card. Buses stop within a short walk of the London Eye.
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Riverboat
Riverboat services operate from Westminster Pier to London Eye Pier, offering a scenic 10-15 minute journey along the Thames. Tickets cost approximately £7-£10 one way. Services run regularly during the day but may be limited in the evening or winter months.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking along the South Bank is a pleasant option. The terrain is flat and accessible, with well-maintained paths and plenty of signage. Walking times vary but expect 10-20 minutes from major nearby landmarks like the Houses of Parliament.
lastminute.com London Eye location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Low-Visibility Conditions
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about lastminute.com London Eye
A Modern Icon on London’s Riverside
The London Eye is a landmark of modern engineering and design, rising 135 metres (443 feet) above the South Bank of the River Thames. Constructed to mark the millennium in 2000, it has since become a symbol of London’s skyline and a must-visit attraction. Unlike traditional Ferris wheels, it is a cantilevered structure, supported on only one side, which gives it a sleek and futuristic appearance. Its 32 high-tech glass capsules offer panoramic views, allowing visitors to see many of London’s famous landmarks from a unique vantage point.Unrivalled Panoramic Views and Experience
Each rotation takes approximately 30 minutes, providing a leisurely journey that reveals an ever-changing perspective of the city. From the top, you can spot the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, and on clear days, even further afield. The pods are spacious, accommodating up to 25 people, and are fully enclosed to ensure comfort in all weather. The gradual rotation allows ample time for photography and sightseeing, whether by day with clear skies or at night when London is illuminated.Seasonal Events and Festive Magic
The London Eye embraces the seasons with special events, especially during the Christmas period. From late November through December, the wheel features festive flights with decorated pods, immersive narrations, and even a ‘Santa in the Sky’ experience where children can meet Santa during the ride. The wheel is also lit up with spectacular LED displays to mark special occasions and holidays, adding sparkle to the London skyline. Extended opening hours during the festive season allow visitors to enjoy the city’s lights late into the evening.Planning Your Visit and Accessibility
The London Eye operates daily from 11am to 6pm in winter, with extended hours up to 8:30pm or 9pm during peak summer and festive seasons. It is highly recommended to pre-book tickets online, with options for standard entry, fast-track access to skip queues, private capsules for groups, and champagne experiences for special occasions. The attraction is fully accessible, offering assisted wheelchair access, ramps, and flat routes from nearby transport hubs. Visitors can combine their ride with a Thames River cruise for a broader sightseeing adventure.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Beyond its function as a tourist attraction, the London Eye is a feat of engineering and a cultural icon. Its LED lighting system, upgraded to energy-efficient LEDs in 2006, allows it to change colors for events such as coronations, film premieres, and community celebrations. It is also the focal point of London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks, underscoring its role as a centerpiece of city life and festivities.Immersive Views and Lasting Memories
Whether visiting for the first time or returning, the London Eye offers a unique way to appreciate London’s vast urban landscape. The slow rotation combined with the height creates a tranquil yet exhilarating experience. From the gentle breeze at the top to the sweeping cityscapes below, it is a moment of reflection and awe, capturing the essence of London’s blend of history, culture, and modernity.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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Futuristic Looks
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly