The 32 capsules are numbered 1 to 33, but number 13 is omitted for superstitious reasons.
The wheel was assembled in sections that were floated up the River Thames on barges and lifted into position horizontally before being raised to an upright stance.
When installed, the wheel was the tallest of its kind globally; it has since been surpassed in diameter by several other structures, but remains the tallest cantilevered wheel.
Each capsule weighs approximately 10 tonnes.
The steel cables used to secure the wheel have a total length of 1,700 meters.
The London Eye is a 135-meter tall cantilevered observation wheel situated on the South Bank of the River Thames. It consists of 32 climate-controlled glass capsules, each representing one of London's 32 boroughs. The structure rotates at a speed of approximately 0.6 miles per hour, completing a full revolution in about 30 minutes. Engineered by a team including Marks Barfield Architects, it was originally intended as a temporary installation for the millennium celebrations. It holds the title of the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in the world. The wheel is supported by an A-frame on only one side, distinguishing it from conventional Ferris wheel designs. The passenger capsules use a motorized mounting system to remain level throughout the entire rotation.
From the Jubilee Gardens side to capture the full wheel in profile against the backdrop of the Houses of Parliament.
Book your time slot online in advance to avoid long wait times at the ticket office.
Visit on a clear day to take advantage of visibility that can extend up to 40 kilometers.
Consider the 'Fast Track' option during weekends and school holidays to bypass standard queues.
Avoid arriving without a pre-booked ticket, as walk-up availability is not guaranteed during peak seasons.
Maintains daily operations throughout the year except for a short period of annual maintenance in early January.
