The London Eye - Champagne Experience
On our first night in London, we had planned on taking a trip up the London Eye for a champagne toast at sunset. Unfortunately we had a rather chaotic travel day and we ended up missing our reservation for the London Eye. They were kind enough to let us reschedule for the next morning. Who says you can't drink champagne for breakfast??
Quick Tips for the London Eye
Get your tickets online!
You will thank me later. The line to purchase tickets was completely insane - you'll waste hours and hours of your day standing around staring at the back of a strangers head. Not fun. Plus, the prices online are a little cheaper!Upgrade to one of their "VIP" options!
We went with the Champagne Experience because ... Champagne! When it's all said and done you only pay maybe an extra £10, but you get so many perks! What perks you ask??
When you arrive you check in at a counter that is totally separate than the regular ticket lines - which means it has significantly less of a line! In fact, we had absolutely no line at all. That by itself is worth the extra £10 to me.
- You get to skip yet another LONG line by going straight to security and onto your pod in seconds.
- The Champagne Experience has less people per pod. I believe it was a maximum of 15 people per pod - instead of 21 in a regular pod. The extra 6 people really make a difference in feeling less crowded.
- Since it costs extra and includes champagne, you can assume that majority of people in your pod will be 18 or older - so that means no screaming kiddos running around your pod. No offence to those out there with kiddos!
- Lastly, but certainly not least, it comes with a glass of chilled champagne to sip while you enjoy the beautiful views of London and beyond.
Now that my random tips are out of the way, I can continue with my story...
The area around the London Eye is pretty hectic and just overloaded with tourists, but once you're in your pod it is quiet and super relaxing. It was a very hot day so the AC was absolutely blissful! One trip around takes about 30 minutes and it's really the perfect amount of time. Not too long that you feel cramped or bored, but long enough for you to enjoy the views and get some really great photos.
Our guide as super friendly and fun. When we were at the top she had people take turns getting photos in front of the the "best" corner of the pod. That way everyone got a chance for a nice picture in front of Parliament & Big Ben without having to step all over each other.
Overall, the London Eye might be the one of the more commercialized tourist attractions you see in London, but it is absolutely worth it! Definitely a must-see on my list!
Check out my other suggestions for things to see in London!
Also check out my Ultimate U.K. RoadTrip Itinerary for more info on my epic 17 day adventure through England & Scotland!
Adventure Always.
Mary Kate