It’s time to wish the London Eye happy birthday as the iconic structure in the centre of our capital city turns quarter of a century – but it’s so much more than just a pretty sight to see
It’s hard to believe that the London Eye is celebrating 25 years today [9 March]. The structure was only ever meant to be a temporary marker of the millennium but has now cemented its place as an iconic London landmark standing shoulder to shoulder with Big Ben, Tower Bridge and St Pauls Cathedral.
Now, it stands proud, overlooking the Thames and welcoming tourists from around the world, desperate for a glimpse of the London skyline from 442ft in the air.
Built for the year 2000, the London Eye is an icon with celebration in the fabric of its DNA. The home of London’s annual New Years Eve fireworks and situated in the heart of the city, the London Eye is at the forefront of London’s most spectacular landmarks.
Designed by the Marks Barfield Architects, it is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel and London’s only moving view of the city. the gradual rotation and breath-taking 360-degree views of the capital, allows visitors to spectate the hustle and bustle of London life unfolding beneath them.
Since 2000, over 85 million people have journeyed across London’s skyline. It’s in postcards, it’s in selfies, it has cemented its place in pop-culture as a modern icon, frequently featured in movies and instantly recognisable worldwide. From first dates to ‘I do’, Hollywood royalty to actual royalty, the 32 capsules – one for every London borough – have seen it all over the years.
Julia Barfield, of Marks Barfield Architects who designed the London Eye, said: “The wheel started off as a landmark to celebrate the Millennium, but has now become a permanent feature of the London Skyline.
“It was David, my husband, who thought of the wheel, and I located it in the very centre of London. It’s a symbol of time, and a great way to get people up high efficiently – to offer people the chance to see London from a new perspective and raise spirits.
“It’s incredibly moving to see so many enjoying the structure – I’ve been going back and looking at it for the first time for ages. And it just shows, if you have a dream you’ve got to just go ahead and do it.”
But did you know there’s special treats for both parents and children on the London Eye? For parents make sure to book the VIP champagne experience. Try for a sunset slot depending on the time of year for the best snaps you’ll ever take, and enjoy a glass of Pommery Champagne, served to you by a personal host. This also includes a VIP check in and 30 minute rotation for £62 per person.
And for the children, book the Afternoon Tea package – complete with sweet tea, cakes, pastries and sandwiches. Leave with a special box of macaroons, too. Just make sure to add your London Eye ride on too when booking, it’s not automatically included.
Most holidaymakers assume experiencing the London Eye is a simple round-trip but there are so many options to choose from including a Proposal pod which includes champagne, truffles, music, videographer and lots more depending on what you fancy, there’s a wine tasting pod too and a Cupid’s pod for those in love and looking for some quality time together.
Robin Goodchild, Senior General Manager of the London Eye, said: “To be celebrating a quarter of a century standing proud on London’s Skyline is no mean feat when you think it was never in the plan for the London Eye to be more than a temporary structure. That we are, is testament to the way Londoners and the world have embraced the London Eye as more than its parts –establishing it to become the symbol of London. As London’s Eye.
“We are really excited for all those that have been on the Eye over the past 25 years to revel in their amazing memories of their visit when watching the short film. And for those who are yet to enter one of our 32 pods, we hope it inspires them to take a journey across the London skyline and fall in love with the incredible city we are proud to call home.”
www.londoneye.com