Go early or late - when the crowds are reduced (London Eye)

Member Name: bucksfizz66

Product:	London Eye
Date:	23/07/09 (30 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Saves on fast-track tickets

Disadvantages: Its all over too soon that trip on the Eye

I flew in the London Eye in the year that it opened (2000) when it was only going to be there for one year but as it was decided to retain it I have been on it a few times since, my latest venture being last week.

The Eye itself obviously hasn't changed in this time, the price has and the on the ground infrastructure has in terms of open air cafes and the souvenir shop that you pass through when you exit the Eye.

This review isn't about what you can already easily ascertain yourself from looking at the attractions own web pages - this is about my experiences and observations in the hope this makes an informed experience for yourself.

Without doubt whether you go on it or not - the Eye draws crowds and with those crowds have come a number of street entertainers adjacent to the Eye. What can I say - they are very good but as always when watching acts like this in crowds in a city be mindful of your belongings.

As it was July - the Eye operates from 10am to 9.30pm. I went on at 8.30pm, however when I arrived at the hotel I was staying (Premier Inn - County Hall by the Eye) at 2pm the crowds by the Eye were unbelievable. Because of staying at this nearside location I also got to see the Eye in the morning and without doubt if you want to avoid the crowds try either an early or a late flight - its saves paying through the nose then for a fast-track ticket. (To be honest I would extend this advice for tickets for all ticket entries within London).

The crowds in the ticket office are also lengthy and seemingly slow (passed throught looking the hotel entrance in the wrong place). There's no need to hold up your visit by being in the ticket office if you can book online then do it.

Affiliated purchases are definetely more notable - last year I got a combined ticket for the Eye and The Sound of Music (a package no longer available) but for the price of the tickets to the show this represented excellent value. Also last year a combined ticket for the Eye and a Thames River Cruise - use this to go to Greenwich - a much missed out spot where there are loads of places to eat including a Pizza Express which is also affiliated with the Eye through their website.

The trip on the Eye is fabulous but over so soon that extending the experience by the cruise and a trip to Greenwich makes for a more encompassing experience.

And finally, if you are going to buy the photo (a must) make sure you have some flat to lie it in for the rest of your day out - haven't got any tips on what though.

There are the usual types of souvenirs for children at the Eye - cups, magnets etc. My favourite for my daughter (6) was the Little Lillie Visits - the London Eye book - a great story to read that doesn't get lost in the back of a drawer like most souvenirs.

Summary: Book online don't visit the ticket office, and go on the Eye early or late