London Eye River Cruise | Duration, Best Time, & Sightseeing

Highlights of the London Eye River Cruise

Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament, officially known as the Palace of Westminster, house both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The oldest element of this neo-Gothic structure originates from the mid-19th century.

Big Ben

Elizabeth Tower, or Big Ben, is the most famous feature of the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament). This tower is the representative structure of London for the entire world.

Shakespeare’s Globe

A tour of Shakespeare’s Globe is a must for all theater and drama enthusiasts. However, viewing this Mecca of performance arts from the Thames River is also a great bet.

Shakespeare’s Globe tickets

Millennium Bridge

The Millennium Bridge, made of steel, aluminum, and concrete, connects the south bank of the Thames to the north bank at Peter's Hill. The low-slung frame is stunning to view from your ferry, especially in the evening.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern is an extraordinary modern and contemporary art gallery housed in the brilliantly renovated Bankside Power Station, and it is one of London's most stunning attractions.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul's Cathedral, which stands atop Ludgate Hill, has been a center of Christian worship and pagan devotion for over 1400 years. The huge dome is a symbol of perseverance and pride for Londoners.

St Paul's Cathedral tickets

HMS Belfast

This huge light cruiser, launched in 1938, served in WWII and the Korean War, helping sink the Nazi battleship Sand. The view of the HMS Belfast from the ferry will surely be enough to pique your interest.

HMS Belfast tickets

The Gherkin

Despite the best efforts of the engineering feats that now surround it, The Gherkin is the city's most interesting skyscraper. The view of this building from your cruise will help you understand modern English architecture.

Tower of London

Few places in the UK are as steeped in history or as encrusted with folklore and superstition as the Tower of London. This fortress is not only an architectural marvel, but also houses historically significant objects.

Tower of London tickets

Tower Bridge

It makes no difference where you first see Tower Bridge, with its two neo-Gothic towers rising from either side of the Thames, because London's iconic river crossing, with its rising road portion, is breathtaking.

Tower Bridge tickets

The Monument

This big Doric column of Portland stone, designed by Christopher Wren, is a reminder of the Great Fire of London in 1666, which destroyed 80% of the city. It is 62 meters tall — the distance from where the fire is believed to have begun.

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London Eye Admission Tickets

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Combo (Save 15%): London Eye Tickets + Thames River Cruise

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Combo: London Eye Tickets + Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Thames River Cruise

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Combo (Save 10%): London Eye + SEA LIFE London Aquarium Tickets

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Combo (Save 5%): Tower Bridge + London Eye Tickets

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Combo (Save 13%): London Eye + Thames River Cruise + Tower of London Tickets

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Visitor tips for the London Eye River Cruise

Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues, pick a clear day for stunning views, and arrive early to enjoy the area's attractions.
The London Eye ride takes about 30 minutes and rotates slowly, so it's easy to walk around the capsule and take in the view from all angles.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views of London. Be mindful of other visitors, and avoid blocking their view.
Dress appropriately for the weather, in case you have to wait in lines or are uncomfortable in the air-conditioned capsules. In case of rain, ponchos are available.
Combine a ride on the London Eye with a visit to the nearby SEA LIFE London Aquarium, or Shrek’s Adventure! London.
The London Eye is a safe attraction, but be sure to follow staff instructions, keep an eye on children, and don't lean out of the capsule.
For optimal views, consider a late afternoon or early evening cruise. The lighting around sunset adds an extra charm, and it’s generally less crowded.
There is no formal dress code, but comfortable attire and layers are recommended, as the temperature may vary on the water.
Bring essentials like a camera, sunscreen on sunny days, and a light jacket for cooler weather on the Thames.

Frequently Asked Questions about the London Eye River Cruise

Can I get off the London Eye river cruise at any stop?

No, the London Eye River Cruise starts and stops at the London Eye pier and you cannot get down at any point in the river cruise loop.

Are there any refreshments on the London Eye river cruise experience?

Yes, all London Eye River Cruise ferries are well stocked with refreshments with a bar on board for drinks and snacks.

When can I visit the London Eye with my London Eye River Cruise tickets?

You can visit the London Eye anytime on the day of the London Eye River Cruise tickets booking.

Is the cruise suitable for children and families?

Yes, families and children are welcome on the London Eye River Cruise! It’s a fun experience, making it a great family-friendly outing in London.

What if it rains? Is the cruise still operational?

Yes, the London Eye River Cruise operates in most weather conditions, with indoor seating available to keep you dry. However, in severe weather, check with staff as schedules may vary.