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The London Eye

Where can you have a party while suspending in the air? At the EDF London Eye, that’s where. The London Eye stands as one of the major sights in London along with the time honored landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the Tower Bridge.

The 360 degree panoramic views offered from inside the capsules require even the gloomiest of travelers to hold their breath at the sight of the amazing London cityscape. There are just so many likeable things about this observation wheel. One is the sizeable capsules you ride in. Another is that it is the world’s largest wheel supported by a cantilever. Talk about architectural prowess. It glows whatever colour it so pleases at night and towers over the city during the day. The entire thing weighs an incredible 2,100 tonnes.

Having just opened in the new millennium, it has emerged as one of the most noticeable tourist sites in London. And it is truly one of the best family friendly activities in London. At first glance you are certain to fancy it.

A Brief History

The London Eye is owned by the London Eye Company. Designed by Marks Barfield Architects, construction on the wheel finished in 2000 and the place opened for tourism.

This spot sees millions upon millions of visitors every year. The London Eye has been awarded numerous trophies from various international and national tourist companies. Since its beginning, the London Eye Company has aimed to impress with a philosophy of simultaneously offering the best tourist customer service and best views of the city.

Tickets

There are many kinds of tickets that can be purchased. Please note that prices are subject to vary according to the time of season, inflation and events. Booking online can get you a discount of 10 to 20 percent.

The Flexi Fast Track ticket, priced at £31.50, offers a half hour ride with priority boarding and your choice of date. The Fast Track costs £25.92 but does not offer your choice of date. The Flexi Standard Ticket, priced at £19.98, does not offer priority boarding but does offer flexible date choice. A Standard Ticket and Night Experience are both priced at £17.01.

You all need to realise it. This is the perfect location for a date. Buy the Champagne Experience for £31.54. Adding an extra glass costs £9.06. The Wine Tasting Experience includes the tasting of five wines for £40.

Private Capsules

From weddings to business functions, private capsules have the capability to handle all sorts of socials.

Corporate events include wine tasting sessions, champagne parties, private dinners and more. Prices range from a few hundred pounds to over one thousand.

On special occasions, like Valentine’s Day in London, you can book Cupid’s Capsule with your partner for around £325. A children’s birthday party costs £30 per person.

Capsules can also be booked for small, romantic weddings. The package price ranges around a few thousand pounds. The London Eye capsules also can host Stag Parties and Hen Parties.

The 4D Experience

With bubbles, strobe lighting, fog and earthquake like vibration, the 4D London Eye Cinema experience totally engulfs you. It’s too bad it’s only a part of the experience. Every ticket package includes the option for a three minute and forty five second 4D show.

Getting There

Getting around London is very convenient. London transportation is both efficient and cheap. Finding the London Eye is hence a breeze.

Using the Tube in London, the stops Waterloo, Charing Cross, Westminster and Embankment all put you within short walking distance. If you are coming by rail, get off at Waterloo or Charing Cross. If you are using the London Bus System, take route 77, 211 or 381. If you want to drive, note that traffic may be bad because the wheel sits in central London at Westminster Bridge Road. If you take a boat, get off at the Millennium Pier.

Hours of Operation

From September through March, the London Eye is open from 10am to 8.30pm. From April through June, it is open from 10am to 9pm. In July and August it is open from 10am to 9pm.

Other Things of Note

The premises are handicap friendly. There is a gift shop located next to the ticket office. Zen Cafe offers a chance to relax, drink some tea and eat a sandwich.

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The London Eye