Since its inauguration 25 years ago, the London Eye has become one of the city’s most popular attractions, offering tourists panoramic views of landmarks such as Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Buckingham Palace.
Originally intended to be dismantled after five years, the observation wheel’s overwhelming success led to it becoming a permanent feature on the River Thames last year. The 30-minute ride in a glass pod provides visitors with breathtaking sights, including Windsor Castle, 40 kilometers away, on a clear day. For many Britons, the London Eye has also become synonymous with the city’s New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Designed by husband-and-wife architects David Marks and Julia Barfield to mark the millennium, the wheel symbolizes the cycle of life. “A circle has no beginning and no end. It represents the passage of time,” Barfield told Reuters, noting that when it first opened, it was one of the few ways to experience London from above.
Over the years, the city’s skyline has evolved, with skyscrapers like The Gherkin (2004), the Shard (2013), and the Cheesegrater (2014) now visible from the wheel. Each year, around 3.5 million visitors pay at least £29 for a ride on the London Eye.
Despite inspiring similar attractions worldwide, the London Eye remains the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel at 135 meters. It was also envisioned as a way to rejuvenate the South Bank, with 1% of its annual revenue contributing to the upkeep of the surrounding public spaces.
Over the years, the London Eye has become an iconic part of the city’s skyline, drawing both tourists and locals eager to experience its stunning aerial views. It has also played a role in major national celebrations, serving as a backdrop for royal events, sporting victories, and cultural festivities.
The attraction has undergone various technological upgrades to enhance visitor experience, including improved lighting for special occasions and interactive digital guides inside the pods. During significant events, such as the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics, the wheel has been illuminated in themed colors, further cementing its role in the city’s cultural fabric.
Beyond tourism, the London Eye has contributed significantly to the local economy, generating jobs and increasing foot traffic in the South Bank area, which has since flourished with restaurants, entertainment venues, and arts spaces. Its presence has also influenced urban development along the Thames, with the area becoming a key cultural hub.
Despite its enduring popularity, the London Eye faces occasional challenges, including maintenance closures and competition from newer observation decks atop London’s skyscrapers. However, its historical significance, unique design, and prime location ensure that it remains one of the city’s most treasured attractions.
As it celebrates its 25th anniversary, the London Eye continues to offer millions the chance to see the city from a fresh perspective, standing as a testament to visionary architecture and London’s ever-evolving landscape.
