WestminsterStation.com
The London Eye beside County Hall on the south bank of the Thames

Viewpoint

London Eye

The London Eye turns slowly over the South Bank, directly opposite the Houses of Parliament. From the top of its 135-metre loop you can see the whole of central London, and on a clear day far beyond. It is a short walk from Westminster Station across Westminster Bridge.

Why visit

Built for the millennium, the London Eye was meant to stand for only a few years, but it was so popular that it became a permanent part of the skyline. Its glass capsules move so slowly that you step on while the wheel keeps turning, and one full rotation takes about half an hour.

What you can see

  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, right below you across the river.
  • Buckingham Palace and the royal parks to the west.
  • St Paul’s Cathedral, the City and the Shard to the east.
  • On a clear day, views of up to about 40 kilometres.

Choosing a time

Late afternoon and sunset are the most popular slots, so book these ahead. Mornings on weekdays are usually quietest. In winter, an early evening ride shows the city lights. Each capsule has an interactive guide to point out the landmarks.

Tips

  • Book online for a timed slot. Fast-track tickets skip the main queue at busy times.
  • There is airport-style security, so leave large bags at your hotel.
  • The capsules are step-free and wheelchair accessible.
  • Walk along the South Bank afterwards, or catch a river cruise from the pier beside the wheel.
Share this
FacebookXPinterestEmailLinkedInReddit

Book ahead

Compare all tours

Nearby

Also worth seeing

The tree-lined riverside walk outside the Southbank Centre after rain Riverside

South Bank

Theatres, galleries and riverside walks

A riverside walk from the London Eye past the Southbank Centre, the National Theatre and Tate Modern to Shakespeare’s Globe, with food markets, street performers and views.

The Palace of Westminster and the Elizabeth Tower beside the River Thames under a blue sky with clouds Landmark

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

The Palace of Westminster

The Gothic Revival home of the UK Parliament on the Thames, with the Elizabeth Tower and its great bell, Big Ben, and the medieval Westminster Hall inside.

The west front and twin towers of Westminster Abbey Abbey

Westminster Abbey

Coronations since 1066

The great Gothic church where English and British monarchs have been crowned since 1066, with royal tombs, Poets’ Corner and more than 3,000 people buried or remembered.

Explore all places