Introduction
The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is a cantilevered observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames in London, England. With over three million people a year, it is the most visited paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom and the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in all of Europe.
The History of the London Eye
The London Eye was designed by Marks Barfield Architects and was built by Hyundai Engineering and Construction. It was opened to the public on December 31, 1999, as part of the millennium celebrations. The wheel was originally intended to be a temporary structure, but it was so popular that it was granted a permanent license in 2005.
The Structure of the London Eye
The London Eye is 135 meters (443 ft) tall and has a diameter of 120 meters (394 ft). It comprises 32 capsules, each of which can hold up to 25 people. The wheel rotates at a speed of 26 centimeters (10 in) per second, meaning it takes about 30 minutes to complete one full rotation.
What to See from the London Eye
You can see some of London’s most iconic landmarks from the London Eye, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London. You can also see the River Thames, the London skyline, and the surrounding countryside.
Additional Information
- The London Eye is open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm daily.
- Standard tickets cost £25.50 for adults and £19.50 for children aged 3-15.
- Fast Track tickets cost £48 for adults and £37 for children aged 3-15.
- Multi-attraction tickets are also available, which allow you to save money on entry to the London Eye and other popular London attractions.