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Exploring Dazaifu: A Perfect Day Trip from Fukuoka
Looking for a day trip from Fukuoka? Explore Dazaifu, home to the historic Tenmangu Shrine, delicious local food, and unique cultural experiences.
January 10, 2025
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If you’re planning a London trip, one of the most iconic landmarks you absolutely cannot miss is the London Eye. Located along the River Thames, this massive observation wheel offers breathtaking 360-degree views of London, making it one of the best ways to take in the city’s skyline.
Many travelers wonder whether the London Eye is worth it, especially considering the ticket prices. Having visited London twice—once in 2019 and again recently—I finally decided to experience this world-famous attraction. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about how to book London Eye tickets, the best time to visit, and what to expect during your ride.
Booking your London Eye tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Tickets are available on the official London Eye website and through third-party platforms like KKday or Klook, which sometimes offer discounts.
There are two main ticket types:
Standard Ticket (£42) – General admission with a designated time slot.
Fast Track Ticket (£53) – Skip-the-line access, reducing wait times significantly.
I opted for the standard ticket since I visited in the evening when crowds were lighter. Surprisingly, I only waited about 10 minutes before boarding, making the fast-track option unnecessary. However, if you’re visiting during peak hours, fast-track tickets can be worth the extra cost.
The London Eye is located on the South Bank, right next to Westminster Bridge and Big Ben. It’s easily accessible by public transport:
Tube: Westminster (Jubilee, Circle, and District Lines) or Waterloo (Northern, Bakerloo, and Jubilee Lines).
Bus: Several routes, including 12, 53, 148, and 159, stop nearby.
Riverboat: The Thames Clipper also stops at the London Eye Pier.
Since it’s right next to other major attractions like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament, it’s best to plan your itinerary so that you visit multiple sites in one day.
Upon arrival, ticket holders can proceed directly to the entrance queue. If you haven’t booked in advance, there’s a ticket office nearby, but purchasing same-day tickets often comes with higher prices.
Before boarding, there’s a photo booth where staff take souvenir photos, which you can purchase after the ride for £20. The London Eye itself is much larger than it appears from a distance, with each capsule accommodating around 10-12 people.
Once inside, the ride lasts about 30 minutes, moving at a slow and steady pace, allowing you to take in the incredible views at leisure. Unlike traditional Ferris wheels, the capsules are securely attached to the wheel’s frame, meaning there’s no swinging or sudden movement, making it comfortable even for those with a fear of heights.
One of the highlights of the London Eye experience is the stunning panoramic view of the city.
Big Ben & Westminster Palace: As the capsule ascends, you’ll see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament directly across the Thames. Since the recent renovations on Big Ben have been completed, the golden details on the clock tower gleam beautifully in the sunlight.
St. Paul’s Cathedral & The Shard: As you reach the highest point, you’ll have a clear view of St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of London’s most historic landmarks. Looking further east, you’ll spot The Shard, the tallest building in the UK.
River Thames & Tower Bridge: The winding River Thames offers fantastic photo opportunities, and on clear days, you can even see Tower Bridge in the distance.
Since I visited in the late afternoon, I got to experience both daylight and sunset views, which made the ride feel even more special.
For first-time visitors, riding the London Eye is a fantastic experience. While the ticket price might seem steep, the opportunity to see London from above in a peaceful, spacious capsule makes it worth considering.
However, if you’re looking for alternative viewpoints, here are a few options:
The Shard: A luxurious experience with an open-air skydeck.
Sky Garden: A free indoor observation deck with lush greenery and a café.
Primrose Hill: A great outdoor spot for panoramic city views.
Personally, I think the London Eye is the best option for those who want a relaxing ride with postcard-worthy views of Big Ben and Westminster. If you’re traveling to London for the first time, this should be one of the top attractions on your list.
Looking for a day trip from Fukuoka? Explore Dazaifu, home to the historic Tenmangu Shrine, delicious local food, and unique cultural experiences.
Looking for a premium lounge at Incheon Airport? Matina Lounge in Terminal 1 offers hot meals, comfortable seating, and shower facilities before your flight.