London Eye
At a glance:
Access: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Booking: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Transport/nearby facilities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
More in depth:
Access:
Step-free boarding available; staff stop the wheel and deploy a portable ramp.
Smooth, level access into the pod; spacious interior suitable for turning.
Priority queue available for wheelchair users.
Booking:
Dedicated wheelchair time slots on the official London Eye website.
Carer discounts available.
Tickets can be rescheduled a limited number of times via the confirmation link.
Experience:
Audio commentary included.
Seating available on a central bench.
Views may be partly obscured by the central rail depending on eye level, but leaning forward helps.
Transport and nearby facilities:
Closest Tube stations: Waterloo (step-free to the South Bank exit) and Westminster.
Premier Inn County Hall located very close by.
I first visited the London Eye when it opened in 2000, back when the Millennium Dome, now known as the O2 Arena, was brand new. I remember very little from that original trip, and after years of saying I’d return, on a rainy day in London I finally went back, mainly to get undercover.
The London Eye opened on 9 March 2000 and stands on the South Bank of the River Thames, 135 metres above the water, it gives panoramic views across London. The structure has 32 observation pods, each capable of holding up to 25 people. One full rotation takes approximately 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery from all angles.
The booking process was simple. Using the official London Eye website, I purchased a multi-attraction ticket that included the London Aquarium (other options include London Dungeon and The Shrek Experience). The website allows you to choose your date and time, and importantly, book a dedicated wheelchair slot if required. Carer discounts are also available. After completing the booking, I received an email confirmation containing a link to amend the time if needed, was quite handy, though changes are limited.
Staying in the nearby Premier Inn meant I arrived early. When I approached a staff member to confirm where I needed to be, they kindly allowed me to board immediately. I used the priority queue, which merged into the main line about halfway through, and only waited around five minutes before reaching the front. Photographers offered souvenir photos along the queue, but I chose to skip. Once I reached the loading area, staff were already alerted by the team member I’d spoken to earlier, guided me past the final section of the queue. They paused the wheel, put down a small portable ramp, and helped me board smoothly. Access was level and easy, and once inside the pod I found there was plenty of space to manoeuvre.
Our pod had around 12 people, so it felt spacious and comfortable. Everyone was friendly, taking pictures and chatting. The Eye has signposted spots inside for taking photos with specific backdrops one side Westminster, the other side The City. Audio descriptions played throughout the ride, giving history to the views.
A central railing does run around the pod, which could be an obstruction depending on height, but I was able to lean forward slightly to see beneath it. There is also a central bench, offering seating for several people. The rotation itself was smooth, stable, and surprisingly calming. After completing the full loop, staff undertook the same accessible procedure in reverse, making disembarkation just as straightforward as boarding.
If you’re in London and want a unique perspective of the city, especially with good accessibility support, the London Eye is absolutely worth visiting. My experience was smooth, inclusive, and genuinely enjoyable. Friendly staff, easy boarding, and stunning views made it a memorable part of my trip. Highly recommended!