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Updated August 2025
Standing tall on the South Bank, the London Eye has been Britain’s most popular paid attraction for over two decades. Since opening around the millennium, this 135 m cantilevered marvel carries over 3.5 million visitors each year. A full rotation takes 30 minutes, offering sweeping vistas from Big Ben to Windsor Castle when skies are clear. But with its popularity comes waiting—unless you plan with intention.
At a Glance
How Early to Book:
Most time-slots will be available until about 1-2 days before the visit.
Tickets Released:
About 16 months in advance
Best Times to Book:
Weekday mornings right after opening, or late afternoons after 5pm. Sunset slots will be surprisingly peaceful and offer best lighting for photos.
Ticket price:
£29 to £39 for adults depending on time of day. Additional for fast-track entry.
Where to Book:
Your best move is to book your ticket online in advance. Standard adult tickets start around £29, rising to £39 when purchased the same day. Opting for Fast Track entry—at about £44 online and £54 on the day—lets you skip the general boarding queue and typically reduces wait time to around 20 minutes, compared to 45 minutes or more for standard tickets.
Timing is everything. The longest waits fall between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., especially during school holidays and weekends. To avoid the rush, visit during weekday mornings (right after opening) or late afternoons (post-5 p.m.), when lines shrink significantly. Sunset slots are surprisingly peaceful and often offer stunning lighting for photos.
Note: the time on your ticket is when you enter the queue, not when you board. Security checks are in place, so travel light and arrive 10–15 minutes early. Booking ahead also helps avoid horse-trading over the weather—tickets are non-refundable, so check forecasts carefully before choosing your slot.
Accessibility is excellent. Each capsule is wheelchair-friendly, and special slots and carer tickets are available free of charge. Aid devices like induction loops and tactile models are provided for hearing and visually impaired visitors.
There are strategic ways to save too—look for combo deals with nearby Merlin attractions, or 2-for-1 offers via National Rail. Though rare, these can cut significant costs, especially if you're doing multiple sites.
In short: book early, go early or go late, consider Fast Track upgrades, travel light, and be mindful of weather. Do this, and your ride on the Eye becomes unforgettable—not just for the view, but for the seamless, stress-free experience beneath the London sky.
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