Top London Experience (London Eye)

Member Name: sherry284

Product:	London Eye
Date:	08/01/09 (115 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Unique perspective of London

Disadvantages: queues in summer can be long

I went to the London Eye on New Years Day. I had been on it a few years back (and enjoyed it then) but was taking a friend around and so this was my second visit. I booked my tickets through lastminute.com and got it along with the river cruise for just under £25. You can get similar deals and some good value tickets where you can see about 4 other attractions for £45. I just wanted these two so was happy with what I got.

Customers can pay a higher price to ensure a private capsule and champagne and such deals. These are available on various websites including The London Eyes official website.

The London Eye is located near Westminster, nearest station being Waterloo. It is on the South bank and a quick stroll away from the station and National Theatre.

After the river cruise we queued for the London Eye. Th first time I went was in the summer and the weather was clear and sunny. This meant that there were LOTS of tourists queuing however going in the winter the queue was still longer than I expected but it goes pretty fast. The fact that the wheel is always turning ensures that the queue is always going down, if only a little. We waited about 15-20mins which wasnt bad at all. It was quite cold but there are stalls for refreshments should you need something to keep warm!

Getting on the wheel can be tricky but the staff are always at hand. The wheel is constantly moving so you need to be quite quick. I did notice the wheel stop to let someone with a wheelchair on so this experience is wheelchair accessible.

Once inside there is room to sit and walk around. They fill up each pod so there are about 20-25 people which can be tight in some parts where theres a good view but everyone moves around and I found were quite aware to let others have their turn for pictures.

The London Eye gives you the opportunity to see London from a unique perspective. Its quite fun watching the famous landmarks appear as you rise higher and higher. Some sightings include Buckingham Palace, Battersea Power Station, Big Ben and the meandering River Thames.

The experience also offers is a photo opportunity at 2 different parts of the pod so that everyone can fit in. An announcment into the pod is given on the way down and you are told to stand on the floor areas with the camera on them. You are then told to look out and smile so you can get a picture with yourself and your friends/family inside the pod. A great idea and a very popular souvenir at the gift shop. It wouldve been cool if the backdrop of London was in it but everyone seemed to be satisfied with getting themselves in the pod.

I really enjoyed the London Eye and recommend this for every London tourist. It is a top London landmark and great spectacle even at night where it is lit to its full advantage.

Summary: One of London's best tourist attractions!