For some years the London Eye in London was considered the largest Ferris wheel in the world. Its construction took approximately 7 years to complete and coincided with the arrival of the year 2000. For this reason it acquired the distinction of “Millennium Wheel“.
This millennium wheel measures 135 meters and although it was installed provisionally, given the great impact and public acceptance, it was decided that it should stay permanently. Since then, thousands of locals and tourists line up daily to climb this imposing wheel of fortune.
But where is it located? Exactly in the vicinity of the River Thames right next to Westminster Bridge. A privileged place because its location makes it possible to visit other monuments of great importance to the city.
If you want to know more about the London Eye London, here we tell you all about it. Read on and discover some curious facts, tickets and schedules in which you can get on the best Ferris wheel in Europe. Let’s start
London Eye: curiosities you should know
If you want to know London from the heights, your first choice should be to climb this giant Ferris wheel. Where much of its appeal is linked to some curiosities of the London Eye that will leave you impressed and here we show them to you.
1. It was the largest in the world until 2008.
At the time of its inauguration, the London Eye London had become the largest wheel in the world. In 2008, the inauguration of the “Singapore Flyer” was announced with 165 meters, a title it did not keep.
Then the “High Roller” of Las Vegas was built, which measures 167 m. However, to this day it is still the largest Ferris wheel in Europe.
2. 800 people can get on it
Undoubtedly, the most impressive thing is its capacity. Since it is built so that 800 people can climb it. So every day it shows a full view of London to thousands of people who want to enjoy a walk on the heights.
3. 32 Cabins listed and #13 is not included.
Each booth on the London Eye in London represents a district of the city. They are all numbered but the number 13 does not exist. Apparently the decision was made to ward off bad luck and any consequences linked to superstition.
4. State-of-the-art technology and architecture were used for its construction.
Each cabin weighs 10 tons and together with the final structure, its weight is more than 2,000 tons. The interesting thing is that inside the cabins the latest technology has been incorporated. For example, screens that transmit in 4D and wifi connection. In short, a ride with all the comforts.
5. The London Eye London never stops
That’s right, from the moment the London Eye London opens its doors in the morning, it spins non-stop for a full 30-minute ride. When you reach the top, you can see London in a radius of 40 km2.
But the best thing is that it rotates so slowly that it makes it possible for people to go up and down. The approximate calculation for the ride is 0.26 meters per second.
6. It is the most visited tourist attraction in the world.
Neither the pyramids in Egypt nor the Taj Mahal in India receive as many visitors as the London Eye in London. Although they are great World Heritage Sites, the number of visitors does not exceed in the slightest what was the first colossal Ferris wheel on the planet.
7. It is in the middle of the most emblematic places in London.
The London Eye is not only a tourist attraction, but also one of the most important sights to see in London. As well as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the National Gallery and the Palace of Westminster. All these places are located a few meters from the Ferris wheel, so you can not fail to include them in your itinerary for the day.
London Eye London’s London Eye the best attraction for all ages
Undoubtedly, London Eye London is an attraction for the whole family and much better if accompanied by children. It is a safe Ferris wheel and since it does not spin at such a high speed, there is no space or time to entertain fear. From the moment you get on it you will enjoy a unique experience.
However, given the number of people who board daily, the hours of waiting to buy tickets can be tedious. It is best to book in advance or do other activities while waiting for your turn to get on.
Where to buy tickets?
There are two ways to purchase tickets for the London Eye in London. The first option is to buy your tickets at the ticket office. Currently, tickets cost £31, with children between the ages of 3 and 15 paying £27. Minors and senior citizens get in for free.
The second option is to purchase tickets online from the official website of the London Eye. Its price is a little higher and usually depends on the season. However, you can also book your tickets at the ticket office.
If you do it more than 7 days in advance, you can benefit from a discount of up to 20%. Resulting in £24.5 for adults and £22 per ticket for children.
From what time can I get on the London Eye London?
The opening and closing times of the London Eye London vary according to the time of the year, and are defined by month as follows.
- From January to March the Ferris wheel is open to the public between 11 am and 6 pm.
- For the months of April and May the schedule is the same except for some special days, until 20:30 hrs.
- From June to August it is open from 10:00 to 20:30 hrs.
- Finally, from September to November from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Now you know, in London you can live one of the best experiences of your life, you just have to get organized, plan your itinerary and if you like, go up every day to see the city from the London Eye.