This year marks a special milestone for one of London’s most iconic landmarks, the London Eye.
Standing tall on the South Bank of the Thames, this “Millennium Wheel” is celebrating 25 years of offering breath taking views and unforgettable memories. From its origins as a daring idea to its establishment as a symbol of the city’s skyline, the London Eye’s story is one of ambition and innovation.
Originally conceived to commemorate the turn of the millennium, the London Eye was envisioned as a temporary attraction. Designed by the husband-and-wife architect duo David Marks and Julia Barfield, the 443-foot-high structure was a marvel of engineering and design. The wheel, composed of 32 capsules representing the city’s boroughs, offers a 360-degree panoramic view extending as far as Windsor Castle on clear days.
Construction of the Eye was no small feat. Collaboration across countries brought the vision to life, with components crafted in the UK, the Czech Republic, and the Netherlands. In 1999, the wheel was famously assembled flat on floating platforms in the Thames before being carefully raised into its iconic vertical position. Despite initial delays, the London Eye officially opened to the public on March 9, 2000, capturing imaginations worldwide.
Over the past 25 years, the London Eye has evolved far beyond its original temporary status. Its unique design and popularity secured planning permission for it to remain a permanent fixture of London’s skyline. With over 85 million visitors to date – equivalent to the entire population of Germany – it has become the UK’s most popular paid tourist attraction.
Financially, the London Eye has been a resounding success. It has generated an estimated £1.5 to £2 billion in revenue since its inception. Tickets start at £29, with additional premium experiences like champagne packages contributing to its profitability. A portion of this revenue, approximately 1%, is allocated to local community charities, amounting to around £20 million over the years.
As the Eye turns 25, its legacy as a symbol of London is undeniable. To celebrate this milestone, a short film, “Turning 25: London’s Eye,” has been commissioned, featuring spoken word poetry and reflections from notable figures on the landmark’s significance.
The London Eye remains not just an architectural masterpiece but also a testament to the innovative spirit of the new millennium. Its journey from concept to cultural icon continues to inspire visitors from all over the world. As Londoners and tourists alike look forward to the next 25 years, the Eye stands tall, a perpetual reminder of human ingenuity and the enduring charm of the capital city.