The Coca-Cola London Eye is Totally Worth the Lines and Money – Voluntourist Review
Coca-Cola London Eye- London is one of my all-time favorite cities to visit. I’ve probably been 12-13 times now, and I can’t wait to go back when I have the chance.
I have a list of things to do there, like have tea at the Shard, shop at Fenwick department store on Bond St. and Top Shop at Oxford Circus, and about a million other things including the Coco-Cola London Eye.
While it’s not something you have to do every time you’re in the city, it’s absolutely something you should do at least once.
It’s a spectacular and cool way to see breathtaking views of London. Located on the South Bank of the River Thames, the Coco-Cola London Eye was launched in 2000 and is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel, which means it’s supported by an A-frame on only one side.
As someone who has a fear of heights and gets motion sickness easily, I haven’t freaked out once yet, and I’ve been on the London Eye a few times. The capsule moves slowly and takes about 30 minutes to go completely around. And while there are other people with you, they surprisingly don’t pack the capsule too full, so you’ll get a great view and not feel overly crowded.
Heather Newgen with her nephew Austin
Here’s some fun facts about London’s most iconic attraction:
– Kate Moss has been on the Coco-Cola London Eye 25 times, which is the record for a U.K. celebrity.
– More than 3.5 million visitors ride the Eye every year.
– There are 32 capsules, one for each borough of the city. However, they’re numbered from 1-33 because there isn’t a number 13. It skips from 12 to 14 for superstitious reasons.
– A ride takes 30 minutes to go around completely, and travels at a speed of 0.6 miles.
– More than 5,000 people have gotten engaged on the Eye.
Since it’s one of the most popular things to do, the lines to get on the ride are out of control.
So I suggest you get there early or book your tickets online in advance, and consider the fast track option. There is always an insane amount of people waiting in line, so to avoid spending hours here, pay a little more to jump the queues (roughly $42). It’s worth it!
Also check out the other cool options like the champagne or chocolate experience, or booking a private capsule. In addition, there are fun events like yoga on the Coca-Cola London Eye, a ballet inspired workout class or story time for kids.
There’s usually deals online, so check out their website before you purchase tickets.
To read about all of the cool things you can do with the London Pass click here.
To see my experience in London click here.