London Eye Information

Discover interesting facts and history about the London Eye

Introduction

The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is a majestic emblem of London’s skyline, giving the best views in London. Standing tall on the South Bank of the River Thames, this stunning structure has been an unparalleled vantage point offering some of the finest views in London since its grand opening at the start of the new millennium. The London Eye is not just a Ferris wheel; it’s a symbol of innovation and a testament to the architectural prowess that went into its creation.

Facts About The London Eye

  1. A Record-Breaking Design
    When it opened in 2000, the London Eye was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel. Standing at a height of 135 meters (443 feet), it held this record until 2006, when the Star of Nanchang in China surpassed it.

  2. A Unique Construction Process
    The London Eye was built horizontally on the ground before a crane lifted it into its vertical position. This intricate process took over a week and was considered a significant engineering feat.

  3. A Popular Attraction
    The London Eye is one of the most popular paid tourist attractions in the United Kingdom. It attracts over 3.75 million visitors every year who come to experience the breathtaking panoramic views of London. For information about London Eye availability and London Eye tickets price, it’s best to check the official website or reputable ticket vendors.

  4. A Revolving Art Piece
    The London Eye is not just an observation wheel; it’s also a piece of rotating modern art. Each of the 32 capsules represents one of the London boroughs, numbered from 1 to 33, skipping the number 13 for superstitious reasons.

  5. A Slow but Steady Ride
    A complete rotation on the London Eye takes about 30 minutes. The wheel moves at a speed of 26 centimeters per second, which is slow enough for passengers to step on and off without stopping the wheel. Experiencing the London Eye at night offers a different perspective as the city lights up beneath you, creating a beautiful spectacle.

History Of The London Eye

A Landmark for the Millennium
 The birth of the London Eye is a tale as intriguing as the panoramic view it offers. The idea for this unique landmark was sparked by a competition organized by The Sunday Times and the Architecture Foundation in 1993. This competition aimed to design a landmark that would mark the approaching millennium in a significant way.

The Visionary Winning Design
 Amongst numerous entries, one daring and innovative design stood out. This winning design, which proposed a gigantic observation wheel on the banks of the River Thames, was both audacious and visionary. This design would eventually materialize into one of the most distinctive structures on the global stage – the London Eye.

Construction Of The London Eye

7 Years of Triumphs and Trials
 The journey from the blueprint to the reality of the London Eye was filled with fascination and challenges. It took a thorough seven years to construct this architectural marvel. These years were marked by numerous hurdles, from intricate engineering conundrums to complex financial issues. However, each obstacle was meticulously overcome, resulting in a structure that was as robust as it was aesthetically pleasing.

The Grand Unveiling
In March 2000, the wait was finally over. The doors of the London Eye were opened to the public, who had been eagerly anticipating its completion. The lengthy anticipation culminated in an experience that was nothing short of extraordinary.

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