Experience the Iconic London Eye: A Panoramic View of the City
Discover breathtaking views and iconic landmarks from the London Eye, a must-visit attraction on the River Thames.
The London Eye stands as a monumental symbol of modern London, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. This giant Ferris wheel is not only an engineering marvel but also a must-visit attraction for tourists seeking to capture the essence of London from above. A ride provides a unique perspective on the River Thames and iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, making it a perfect spot for photography and unforgettable memories.
A brief summary to lastminute.com London Eye
- Riverside Building, County Hall, London, SE1 7PB, GB
- +442079678021
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to skip the lines and save time.
- Visit around sunset for stunning views and a magical atmosphere as the city lights come alive.
- Consider a private capsule experience for a more intimate outing with added perks.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure clear views and a pleasant experience.
- Explore the surrounding area after your ride for dining and other attractions along the Thames.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start your journey on the A40 from Middlesex and follow it until you reach the M25. Take the M25 towards Heathrow Airport and exit at Junction 15 onto the M4 towards Central London. Continue on the M4 until it turns into the A4 and follow signs for the A3212 towards Westminster. Look for signs to the London Eye as you approach Westminster Bridge. There are several parking facilities near the London Eye, but be aware that parking can be expensive and limited. Expect to pay around £4 - £5 per hour.
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Train
From Middlesex, take a train from your nearest station to London Waterloo. You can check the train schedules and buy tickets at National Rail or the train operating company. Once you arrive at London Waterloo, exit the station and walk towards the South Bank. The London Eye is approximately a 15-minute walk from the station, following signs towards the River Thames. You will pass the Southbank Centre and other attractions along the way.
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Bus
You can also take a bus to reach the London Eye. Check local bus services for routes that connect Middlesex with central London. Routes such as the 77 or 211 might be available. Once you arrive at Westminster or Waterloo, look for signs directing you to the London Eye. The journey can take around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Remember to have an Oyster card or contactless payment ready for bus fares, which typically cost around £1.55 per ride.
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Tube
To reach the London Eye via the London Underground, travel to either Westminster Station (on the Jubilee, District, or Circle lines) or Waterloo Station (on the Bakerloo and Jubilee lines). From Westminster, it's about a 10-minute walk along the riverbank to the London Eye. From Waterloo, the walk is slightly shorter, taking around 5 minutes. Make sure to check the Tube maps and plan your journey ahead, as tickets can range from £2.40 to £5, depending on the time of day and your journey.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
County Hall
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Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Lion
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Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Chindit Memorial
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A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
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A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
The Cenotaph
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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
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A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
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A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
King Charles Street
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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
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A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Dover House
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Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Westminster Hall
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Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
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A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Palace of Westminster
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Discover the grandeur of the Palace of Westminster, an iconic symbol of British democracy and a must-visit landmark in London.
Parliament Sq
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Where Britain's democratic institutions converge, history breathes, and voices are heard.
10 Downing Street
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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
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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
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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
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Create your own cuddly companion in this vibrant, family-friendly toy workshop by the Thames at County Hall.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
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A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
The London Dungeon
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Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
Jubilee Gardens
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A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
Shrek's Adventure London
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
Memorial wall
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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
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Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
Westminster Bridge
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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
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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
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Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Archduke
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Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ping Pong Southbank
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Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
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Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
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Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
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Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
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Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
The Garden
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A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
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Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Bustronome London
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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
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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
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Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Rules
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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
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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
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Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Browns of London
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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
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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
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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)
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Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Gifts of London
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
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Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
The Giftree London
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Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Westminster Abbey Shop
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j-me original design ltd
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London Transport Museum - Shop
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Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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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
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A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Waterloo
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Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
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The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
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Bar @ 26 Leake Street
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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
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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
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Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
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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
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The Red Lion, Parliament Street
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A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
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Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Gordon's Wine Bar
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Old Shades
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Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Understudy
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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
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Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
