The London Eye and River Cruise

Best View of Thames, Parliament and Big Ben from Capsules and Boats

May 8, 2009 Kathleen Curry

The London Eye gives visitors a bird's eye view of the city while cruising on the Thames allows one to get a closer look at some of the city's landmarks.

Some of the best views of London by day or night are of the River Thames and the historic architecture of some of London’s most famous landmarks. The best place to see some of these sights is on the London Eye and during a river cruise on the Thames. The London Eye is situated on the South Bank of the Thames across the river from the Houses of Parliament. It was developed for the millennium celebration in 2000 and took seven years to complete. It is the fourth tallest structure in London.

While some refer to the structure as a “ferris wheel,” the London Eye Web site points out, “This is not the case: first, the passenger capsules are completely enclosed and are climate controlled; secondly, the capsules are positioned on the outside of the wheel structure and are fully motorized; and third, the entire structure is supported by an A-frame on one side only.”

As one of Europe’s most popular attractions, the London Eye schedules “flights” for an average of 10,000 passengers a day and is the world’s tallest observation wheel. Standing at 135m (443ft) it boasts excellent views of the city. On a clear day one can see as far as Windsor Castle. While on a flight, the view to the south shows Westminster Abbey, The Clock Tower (Big Ben) and The Houses of Parliament. While looking east, St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge come in to view. Sunset is the perfect time to set out on a “flight” as the sights begin to light up to create a beautiful nighttime skyline.

Each rotation takes 30 minutes and the capsule rotation is slow enough to allow people to walk on and off without the rotation coming to a complete stop.

Private and Romantic

The London Eye offers privates launches for those who want a capsule to themselves. This is a great idea for romantic evenings and marriage proposals, particularly when adding extras like champagne toasts and chocolate tastings. One package offered is Cupid’s Capsule, which starts at £299 and allows a couple to enjoy champagne and truffles.

The London Eye River Cruise

After viewing the River Thames from above, a great way to get a closer look below, is to take the companion London Eye River Cruise after arriving back on the ground. Tickets for this cruise can be purchased when booking a London Eye flight. The cruise leaves from right next to the London Eye and provides a 40-minute ride with live commentary. The cruise offers up-close views of famous landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the Tate Modern museum.

Booking a Cruise and Flight

London Eye

Riverside Building

County Hall

Westminster Bridge Road

London

SE1 7PB

44 (0) 870 5000 600

The ticket office is located inside County Hall. Customers can save 10% by booking online. The London Eye is open year round, except for Christmas Day and for annual scheduled maintenance. The London Eye is open from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. in the summer months and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. the rest of the year.

There is much to see in London, and two of the best ways to see it are from the London Eye followed by a cruise of the Thames.

The copyright of the article The London Eye and River Cruise in U.K./Ireland Travel is owned by Kathleen Curry. Permission to republish The London Eye and River Cruise in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

London Eye