By: Edward Grey
Submitted: 2008-11-01 19:02:26 | Word Count: 515
The London Eye is one of the most visual landmarks in London. It is formerly called the Millennium Wheel. It was opened on December 31, 1999 by Prime Minister Tony Blair and its purpose is to celebrate the Millennium. However due to some technical problems, it was only fully operational in March of 2000. But still, it quickly became one of the most popular attractions in the world as it entertains 2 million visitors each year.
Most people call the rides as flights because it was actually sponsored by the popular airline company, British Airways.
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The London Eye Ferris Wheel is 443 feet above Thames River and will take you 30 minutes before you complete one revolution. It is located just opposite the very popular Big Ben Clock Tower and is just beside the River Thames.
Riding the Capsule
The London Eye Ferris Wheel consists of capsules where people can ride on. This capsule is very comfortable as it is fully air conditioned and is designed to keep everyone in an upright position while the wheel is revolving. It can hold up to 25 people inside.
In order to ride it, of course you will need a ticket. You can visit the ticket box office to purchase one. However due its popularity, most of the time you really need to wait on a long line before you can take your turn. So, if you’re the type of person who doesn’t want to wait on a long line, then you can go online to purchase tickets in advance. The tickets may be a little more expensive than the usual though but it may be worth your penny instead of waiting on a long line under the sun.
A Good Tourist Attraction
When you go to London for a good sightseeing, you will most likely visit the Big Ben Clock Tower and the Westminster Palace or what is sometimes called the House of Parliament. Once you’re there, you will never miss the huge Ferris wheel just at the opposite side of the palace. At that moment you’ll realize how beautiful the London Eye is.
Though it is still not as popular as the Big Ben, it is becoming more and more popular over the past years as it attracts many people around the world. And besides, it opened just a few years ago and it really does not carry a deep historic background with it yet. But if you are in London, it will be really hard to ignore this beautiful site.
If you’re planning on visiting the London Eye, it will be worth your while as you’ll get to see other London attractions nearby. If you are lucky enough to ride it, you’ll have some great view of famous attractions like the Big Ben Clock Tower as it is connected to the Palace of Westminster. You will also have a great view of the long and famous Thames River. In addition to all the attractions, there are plenty of shops and restaurants around the place so you’ll have lots of options to relax and explore.
