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While the London Eye* is a fixture in London, it is a relatively recent addition to the city skyline compared to most surrounding buildings. However, since its installation, the London Eye has become a world-famous observation wheel and a top-rated tourist attraction.
Whether you’re in London for a short break or a more extended visit, why not make the most of your time at one of the top hotels nearby by taking a ride on the London Eye* yourself? Here’s everything you need to know about one of London’s most famous new landmarks.
An attraction for the new millennium
The London Eye opened in 2000 and was intended as an attraction for the start of the new millennium. The iconic Ferris wheel* was meant to celebrate the new year and be a modern addition to London’s historic districts. With 32 capsules surrounding the central wheel, each seating 25 people, the London Eye* can carry around 15,000 visitors daily. It stands 135 meters tall and towers far above some of the city’s older landmarks. From there, tourists can enjoy breathtaking views of iconic structures like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
The London Eye* takes about 30 minutes to ride and is designed to move continuously. Construction was completed in 2000 after the wheel’s components were shipped up the Thames* and assembled flat before being erected. The London Eye weighs about 1700 tons in total. The attraction has won many awards for tourism and architecture and is still popular today. There is no denying that a trip to the London Eye is a must for anyone planning a vacation in London.
The owners of the London Eye
The London Eye* has changed hands over the years. It was initially owned by a consortium of the Tussauds Group, British Airways, and members of the Marks Barfield family. Still, in 2006 the Tussauds Group became the sole owner. The following year, it was bought out by Merlin Entertainment, which remains the sole owner of the London Eye* today. Even though it has changed hands several times, the London Eye has always remained a city landmark. It remains one of the most popular attractions.
Unveiling and current use
The London Eye was inaugurated in 1999 as part of the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Still, it was opened to the public after technical glitches in March 2000. Since 2005, the London Eye has played an important role in London’s New Year celebrations. Today, the London Eye* attracts numerous tourists and is estimated to have hosted more than 30 million visitors since its opening, making it a significant symbol of the modern London skyline.
About the London Eye
The London Eye was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects. Centrally located in the heart of the capital, the London Eye gracefully rotates above the River Thames* opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. At 135m, the London Eye* is the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in Europe; a masterpiece of design and engineering, it has become a modern symbol of the capital and a global icon. The experience offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the capital and its famous landmarks. It has been the number one attraction for ten years. The constant and graceful movement of the London Eye offers visitors an ever-changing perspective of the world’s most beautiful city. A London Eye experience lifts you high enough to see up to 40km. However, it keeps you close enough to see the spectacular details of the city unfold below you.
Review
Oh, the sheer exhilaration of this delightful escapade on the London Eye! I was enamored with this adventure, and I can now wholeheartedly endorse this as a must-visit London attraction for kids and adults alike.
The jaw-dropping panoramas of London that unfolded before our eyes were nothing short of extraordinary, making every penny spent worth it.
During your time in this majestic city, you will undoubtedly be captivated by the breathtaking perspective from above. In addition, you’ll find yourself yearning for more opportunities to take in the sights from this vantage point.
You could easily immerse yourself in the countless angles and views of the city, snapping priceless family photos and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
So, is the London Eye worth it? Absolutely YES! Just as you would visit the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, the London Eye is an essential stop in England’s bustling capital.
The only negative point was that the Champagne Experience service could have been better. Unfortunately, there was no information or a schedule on-site. But you quickly converse with other guests who already took the London Eye Experience, not for the first time.
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