10 Fascinating Facts About the London Eye

The London Eye has been gracing the London skyline for over 25 years, but do you know how it started, or what famous faces have taken a ride? Discover fascinating London Eye facts below!

1. It was the World’s Tallest Observation Wheel

Launched in 2000, the London Eye is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel, standing at 135 meters, with views stretching out over the South Bank, offering unobstructed panoramas of London’s iconic skyline. 

It took over one hundred iterations to finalise the structure of the wheel, which today holds 32 capsules and remains a symbol of time turning. The Millennium wheel has also inspired similar structures globally, including the Singapore Flyer that soars 165 meters above ground level, and the Vegas High Roller, which is a towering 167 meters.

2. It Wasn’t Meant to Be Permanent

Initially designed to be a temporary structure to commemorate the new millennium, the London Eye’s popularity exceeded its original five-year lease and was granted permanent planning permission in 2024. 

Today, it remains a focal point of the Capital's architectural skyline, particularly during New Year’s Eve celebrations and the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, for which the Millennium Wheel became a key part of the festivities.

3. It Offers Unrivalled Views of London

Offering more than just 360-degree views over the capital, see as far as 40km in every direction, including historic sites like St Paul's Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, The Shard and Westminster Abbey. Atop the wheel, you also have views of the South Bank, which is particularly charming to visit in the evenings.

4. There are 32 Capsules but no Number 13

In recognition of western superstition surrounding the unlucky number 13, the 13th capsule was skipped entirely. Instead, the capsules run from 1 to 12, 14 through to 33.

5. The Capsules Travel at Walking Pace

The Millennial Wheel moves in a continuum, travelling at a pace of 0.9km per hour, allowing passengers to board and hop off without the wheel ever needing to come to a complete stop. 

 Travelling at a walking pace is ideal for photo opportunities with your loved ones, capturing the backdrop of the city. Want to skip the queue? Upgrade to a fast track ticket to enjoy priority entry.

The London Eye also welcomes wheelchair users and can accommodate up to two wheelchairs per pod. To ensure a smooth visit, we recommend booking a wheelchair timeslot in advance.

6. It Was Built in Pieces Across Europe

Assembled in London, built all over the continent. The London Eye required an international effort during construction, with materials and parts sourced from various places in Europe, including the Czech Republic for the spindle, Italy for the cables, Germany for the bearings and France for the capsules. Built in sections, the London Eye was then assembled on piled platforms on the Thames. Once complete, the wheel was then raised vertically, which took a day to complete.

7. It’s a Favourite for Celebrities and Royalty

Amid royal visits, New Year’s Eve celebrations and being a famed landmark for marriage proposals, many A-listers have also graced the glass capsules of the London Eye. Famous faces include Kate Moss (who has visited the monument 25 times), Angelina Jolie, Lily Allen and athlete Mo Farah, who bid farewell to his track days with a celebratory ride.

8. The London Eye Was Turned into a Giant Time Machine

In 2013, EDF Energy lit up the London Eye with its award-winning Energy of the Nation display. As the world’s first social-media-driven lightshow, it blended technology, social media and art. Changing colour in real time to reflect the UK’s mood, analysed from millions of tweets during the London 2012 Olympics. Yellow meant upbeat, green was neutral, and purple showed negativity, with emotive icons marking daily highs and lows, turning a London landmark into a glowing national mood ring.

9. It's Been in Numerous Films and TV Shows

The London Eye has become a cinematic icon, making memorable appearances in films from thrillers to rom-coms. In Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007), it’s the centre of a dramatic superhero rescue, while Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019) turns it into a backdrop for high-flying action. Much like EDF Energy’s light display, these film moments showcase the Eye not just as a landmark, but as a glowing storyteller.

10. It’s Lit Up for Major Events

The London Eye has long been a focal point for national celebrations, lighting up the skyline for events ranging from dazzling New Year’s Eve fireworks to the vibrant rainbow colours of Pride Month. During royal events, such as jubilees and coronations, the Eye often glows in regal hues to mark the occasion. 

In 2025, the London Eye celebrates its 25th anniversary, promising special illuminations and festivities to honour a quarter-century as one of the UK’s most recognisable landmarks.

Book Your London Eye Adventure Today

Want to experience the gem of London’s skyline first hand? Book now to experience a unique 360-degree view of the capital from over 440 feet in the air. Whether this is your first time aboard a capsule or your 25th, the panoramic views never get old!

From daytime bookings to bus tour packages and cruises to romantic champagne experiences at sunset, the London Eye is a great choice for family day outs, marking a special occasion with friends or a romantic evening lit up by the backdrop of London’s dazzling skyline.

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