Timeline

It’s hard to believe, but when The EDF Energy London Eye was launched as The Millennium Wheel, it was only going to be standing for a few years. But today, the London Eye has become a symbol of modern Britain; it is the UK’s number one paid-for visitor attraction and film set for TV shows and movies.

Along the way, there have been plenty of milestone moments, have a look on our timeline below.

January 2011

The London Eye enters a new partnership with EDF Energy and becomes the EDF Energy London Eye.

November 2010

The London Eye lauches the first ever open air ice rink on the south bank, in the shadow of the London Eye.

December 2009

We continue to make history with the 36 million flights on the London Eye..

August 2009

The London Eye launches a spectacular new 4D Experience.
The London Eye goes through a re-branding.

May 2009

the London Eye launches its capsule upgrade programme with removal of the first capsule
London.

June 2008

We made history with the 30 million flights on the London Eye..

May 2008

The London Eye River cruise celebrated its millionth guest.

March 2007

The 25 millionth visitor was welcomed to the London Eye

March 2007

The London Eye became part of the Merlin Entertainment’s Group, the world’s number two visitor attraction operator.

February 2006

The London Eye was finally granted a 25 year lease agreement.

December 2005

The first civil partnership was performed on the London Eye. To mark the occasion, the London Eye was turned pink.

March 2005

The London Eye had its fifth birthday - 7,000 quarter bottles of Laurent-Perrier Champagne and 3,000 bottles of orange juice were given away so customers could join in the party .

February 2004

The London Eye kept turning until midnight for the first time to give lovers a romantic moment on St. Valentine’s Day.

September 2002

Our 10 millionth flight took place.

August 2002

The London Eye River Cruise was launched, quickly becoming a favourite way to see London from the River Thames.

February 2002

A new idea for Valentines Day and lovers - wedding packages allowing people to get married on the London Eye were introduced .

January 2002

The Euro was accepted at the London Eye

March 2001

The London Eye celebrated its first official birthday. During the first year alone, more than 3.5 million people came on board to fly above London.

March 2000

The London Eye officially opened to the public

October 1999

The London Eye was raised over the River Thames

Late 1998

Construction started on The London Eye, a huge international effort involving hundreds of people.