Get that camera rolling! (London Eye)

Member Name: ninacolada86

Product:	London Eye
Date:	19/05/09 (38 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Stunning views, and relaxing enviroment.

Disadvantages: A bit too expensive I think.

This year for my birthday I found myself in London for work, and after a long hot day,my coworkers surprised me by letting me know that we were going on the London Eye to celebrate my 23rd!

The London eye or millennium wheel as it is also known, was launched for the millennium in March 2000 and has now become one of the most famous attractions in London. It is a giant 135 meter high Ferris/Observation wheel, with instead of open seats, has glass pods, that can hold around 20 people.

It is situated over the Thames, and gives one a birds eye view of London, most noticeably Westminster Abby and Big Ben.

We got to the London eye around six in the evening, and because we didn't book our tickets on the internet, had to wait in a very long line. This was in April so in the summer you can expect waits of over 1 hour. There is a fast track desk, which saves you the queues but which costs about 10 pounds more per person as well.
We paid 17 pounds each, but if you book online you can get a discount, so I would recommend going to their website to order, as not only do you get up to 20% off but you will be able to go straight to the London eye queue and not the ticket queue which is separate.

After waiting in queue to pick up our tickets we then had to walk over to the London eye and wait in another queue to get on the pod. This queue didn't take more then 7 minutes, but in the Summer expect longer waits.
There is a short security check, and then you are waiting to enter the moving pod.
The Pod moves pretty slowly but you still have to be fast to get in, as it is a moving object, and wont wait for you. But unless you have a disability this shouldn't be any problem. The London eye does offer disability and wheelchair assistance, but I didn't see it in operation.

After entering our Pod, we were silently on our way. The pod slowly began its ascent and besides the obvious crowding at certain sections of the windows, where the more famous landmarks are on display, there was plenty of room to see the whole picture.
The entire ride took us about 30 minutes, and the evening was fantastic and let us see as far as 40 kilometers away!
The only downside was because of the setting sun the glare would sometimes constrict the view, but it wasn't enough to ruin this voyage.

I would highly recommend bringing a camera and binoculars as there are some great views and shots to be had from the top. It is also recommended to take this "flight" at night when the lights of the city provide a stunning and alternate view.

All too soon the rotation was over and we were back on firm ground again, but it was a experience I will never forget!

One thing I particularly liked was that you were alone with your thoughts, there was no running commentary about the different landmarks but rather just the hushed atmosphere in the Pod, and the beautiful view.
A nice break from the usual touristy barrage of information.

Prices:

Adult (16 plus) £17.00
Child (4-15 years) £8.50
Child under 4 FREE
Senior (60 plus) £14.00
Disabled £14.00


Opening times:

May and June: 10.00am - 9.00pm daily
July and August: 10.00am - 9.30pm daily
September: 10.00am - 9.00pm daily
October to April: 10.00am - 8.00pm daily

http://www.londoneye.com

Summary: A nice birthday present!