While it stands tall as a timeless symbol of the city, there’s a treasure trove of facts lurking behind those spinning capsules at the London Eye.
Buckle up for a ride through the lesser-known side of this beloved attraction, where we’ll uncover surprising secrets and untold stories of the London Eye.
The London Eye is the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in the world
Media from londoneye
What’s a cantilevered observation wheel anyway? It’s not your ordinary wheel on a stick. A cantilevered wheel is supported on one side only, like a diving board sticking out over a swimming pool. And that’s exactly what makes the London Eye so special.
This engineering marvel rises 443 feet into the sky, offering a panoramic view of London that’ll make your jaw drop. But here’s the kicker – no unsightly support structures are blocking your vista.
Unlike most observation wheels that have spokes or arms attached to a central hub, the London Eye has none.’
The wheel was initially constructed to celebrate the turn of the millennium and was only intended to be a temporary structure
Media from londoneye
The London Eye was meant to be a fleeting marvel, a temporary fixture on the city’s landscape. It was designed to stand tall for just five years, giving Londoners and tourists alike a chance to see the world from a whole new perspective.
But here’s where it gets even more intriguing. This “temporary” structure captured hearts, minds, and camera lenses around the globe. People fell head over heels for those panoramic views of London.
They loved the idea of floating in a glass capsule above the River Thames, gazing at the city’s iconic landmarks. And so, the decision was made to keep the London Eye spinning.
There are 32 sealed and air-conditioned passenger capsules on the London Eye, one for each of the 32 London boroughs
Media from londoneye
You see, London is a sprawling metropolis made up of 32 distinct boroughs, each with its unique character and charm.
From the hipster haven of Shoreditch to the regal elegance of Kensington and Chelsea, London’s boroughs are like puzzle pieces that come together to create the magnificent mosaic that is the city.
So, when the brilliant minds behind the London Eye designed this iconic attraction, they decided to pay homage to London’s boroughs. Each capsule represents one of the 32, making it not just a giant Ferris wheel but a moving symbol of unity in diversity.
Each capsule can hold up to 25 passengers, allowing for a total capacity of 800 passengers at one time
Media from londoneye
That 800-passenger capacity means the London Eye is like a well-orchestrated ballet in the sky. It keeps the queue moving and ensures that everyone gets their chance to soak in those jaw-dropping views without feeling cramped.
So, you won’t be stuck in line for hours, missing out on all the London magic.
The London Eye was designed by architects David Marks and Julia Barfield
Media from londoneye
These architects envisioned a massive wheel with a circular, skeletal structure, allowing for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. It’s like they turned a childhood dream into a symbol of London’s ever-evolving skyline.
But the London Eye wasn’t just a straightforward project. It required a hefty dose of creativity and innovation. Marks and Barfield had to navigate bureaucratic hurdles and engineering challenges to bring their vision to life. And boy, did they succeed!
The wheel was once called the “EDF Energy London Eye”
Media from londoneye
Back in 2011, the London Eye struck a deal with EDF Energy, a major electricity supplier in the UK. Money talks, and in exchange for some financial love, the wheel got a new moniker. For a while, it was the “EDF Energy London Eye”.
This name change wasn’t just about corporate shenanigans. EDF Energy was on a mission to make the London Eye a beacon of sustainability. They adorned it with energy-efficient LED lights, transforming it into a sparkling eco-friendly marvel by night.
While the “EDF Energy London Eye” may have been a mouthful, it also served as a reminder that even iconic landmarks can take a step towards a greener future.
The wheel’s rotation is so slow that it moves at a speed of about 0.9 kilometres per hour
Media from londoneye
This snail’s pace rotation lets you soak in London’s skyline like a fine wine – slowly, with all your senses engaged.
Imagine being 135 meters above the ground, floating gracefully in a glass bubble, and taking in 360-degree views of one of the world’s most captivating cities. You’re not rushed and you’re not racing against time. You’re simply experiencing London at its relaxed rhythm.
Each capsule on the London Eye weighs approximately 10 tons
Media from londoneye
You see, safety comes first, and when you’re hoisting people 135 meters above the ground, you want to make sure they’re as secure as the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London.
So, these capsules are designed to be ultra-sturdy and stable, ensuring that you can enjoy your bird’s-eye view of London without a care in the world. It’s like floating in a cocoon of safety, high above the bustling city.
The London Eye has been featured in several movies including “Doctor Who” and “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”
Media from londoneye
In “Doctor Who”, the Tenth Doctor and his companion, Rose Tyler, found themselves on a thrilling adventure as they dangled from the London Eye in a dramatic episode. It was a backdrop for their time-travelling escapades.
And then there’s “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”. Remember that breathtaking scene where Harry and Dumbledore embark on a perilous journey to retrieve one of Voldemort’s Horcruxes?
Well, they used the London Eye as their cinematic launchpad, soaring into the night sky as they embarked on their quest.
On special occasions, the London Eye is illuminated with colourful lights, creating a stunning visual display
Media from londoneye
From New Year’s Eve to national holidays and even royal events, the London Eye people know how to throw a party in the sky. The Eye’s like the city’s very own firework display, but with an artistic twist.
What’s even more fascinating is that these light shows can tell a story. They can commemorate historical events, honour special occasions, or simply add a dash of whimsy to a regular evening.
The London Eye offers a 4D cinema experience for visitors waiting in line
Media from londoneye
The London Eye’s 4D cinema is like a time machine and teleporter rolled into one. It whisks you away on a whirlwind tour of London’s iconic landmarks and attractions.
The best part? It sets the stage for your upcoming flight on the London Eye. It’s like a prelude to the main act, building anticipation and excitement. By the time you step into your glass capsule, you’ll be buzzing with enthusiasm, eager to see the city from a whole new angle.
The London Eye has its own wine, known as “The London Eye Capsule Cuvee”
Media from londoneye
This wine is exclusively available in the London Eye’s own onboard wine experience. That’s right, you can savour this unique wine while you’re soaring high above the city, taking in those breathtaking views.
Picture yourself in one of those glass capsules, sipping “The London Eye Capsule Cuvee” as you watch the Thames winding its way through the heart of London.
The wheel’s construction cost £75 million
Media from londoneye
Sounds like too much? It’s all about perspective. That £75 million was an investment in wonder, in creating memories, and in inviting millions of visitors to view the city from a breathtaking perspective.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary things come with a price tag, but the experiences they provide are absolutely priceless.
One of the capsules is named after Queen Elizabeth
Media from londoneye
Queen Elizabeth II has been a symbol of unwavering grace and dedication to the United Kingdom for decades. Naming capsule 14 of the London Eye in her honor is like a tip of the hat to the city’s rich history and its enduring link with the monarchy.
When you step into capsule 14 named after Her Majesty, you’re reminded that this city is not only about modernity but also about centuries of tradition and regal elegance.
The Wheel has hosted more than 500 weddings, and more than 5,000 proposals
Media from londoneye
Imagine saying your vows or popping the question with the city’s stunning landmarks as witnesses – the Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the Shard – all gracefully illuminated in the night sky. It’s like having your private piece of the London skyline.
The London Eye has been named one of the “Seven Wonders of the Modern World” by The Times
Media from londoneye
The Times is no pushover when it comes to making declarations about what’s truly awe-inspiring in our world. So, when they dub something one of the “Seven Wonders of the Modern World”, you better believe it carries some serious clout.
The next time you find yourself gazing up at this giant wheel on the banks of the Thames, remember that you’re in the presence of true modern-day wonder.
On a clear day, it’s possible to see as far as Windsor Castle
Media from londoneye
When we talk about seeing as far as Windsor Castle, we’re talking about a staggering distance of about 40 kilometres. On a clear day, the world unfurls before you like a grand tapestry, and there it is – the magnificent Windsor Castle, standing proud in the distance.
It has its own official app called “Eye Know”
Media from londoneye
With “Eye Know”, you can skip the lines (yes, you heard that right) and book your tickets in advance. No more standing around, twiddling your thumbs, and watching the minutes tick away – you can waltz right up to the Eye and hop on like a VIP.
Plus, “Eye Know” lets you snap jaw-dropping photos and instantly share them with your friends and followers. Because let’s face it, if you didn’t Instagram your Eye experience, did it even happen?
The capsules have transparent floors in the centre, offering a thrilling perspective of the River Thames below
Media from londoneye
For those with a hint of daredevil in their souls, it’s an opportunity to conquer your fear of heights (or embrace it with open arms). Stepping onto that clear floor is like taking a leap of faith, and the reward is a spine-tingling thrill you won’t soon forget.
If you visit during the winter months, you can enjoy a ride in a heated capsule
Media from londoneye
London’s winters can be nippy. It’s a city that knows a thing or two about rain and a brisk breeze. So, the idea of hopping onto a warm capsule as you ascend into the winter sky is nothing short of luxurious.
No need for extra layers, thermal socks, or frostbite concerns here!
The London Eye hosted the world’s highest-ever gig in 2008 when a band played at 450 feet
Media from londoneye
The city has been a cradle for musical legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Adele. So, it’s only fitting that it would be the backdrop for an extraordinary musical feat – a concert in the sky!
The band responsible for this audacious feat was none other than Razorlight, and they were there to rock the sky. The gig was part of a promotional campaign for their new album, Slipway Fires, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the whole event.
