The London Eye, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, is celebrating its 25th anniversary today. Originally conceived as an entry to a competition organized by The Sunday Times in 1993, the giant observation wheel has since become a global symbol of London’s skyline and a top attraction for millions of visitors from around the world. Officially opened to the public on March 9, 2000, the London Eye has grown into a beloved monument, offering some of the best panoramic views of the city and beyond.
The London Eye’s story began with a bold vision, to create a modern landmark for the new millennium. It made its first full rotation on New Year’s Eve 1999, an event marked by the presence of Prime Minister Tony Blair, who set the wheel in motion, symbolizing the turning of the century. The wheel’s opening in March 2000 was the beginning of what would become one of the most famous attractions in the world, drawing visitors from across the globe and offering a unique experience with its 360-degree views of London.
Since its opening, the London Eye has welcomed over 30 million visitors. It has become a symbol of innovation, design, and a celebration of the city’s transformation as a global hub of culture, art, and tourism. The attraction is celebrated not just for its views but for its engineering marvel. At 135 meters tall, it was the world’s largest observation wheel until 2006. It is still the tallest structure in London and offers visitors an unparalleled perspective of the capital, including famous landmarks such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard.
Over the years, the London Eye has garnered a reputation for being a romantic and memorable location for special moments. More than 5,000 marriage proposals have taken place within the iconic glass-enclosed pods, making it a sought-after venue for couples from around the world. The wheel’s pods, which are numbered 1 to 33 (skipping the number 13 to cater to superstitious visitors), provide a unique experience for each passenger, with views that change with every rotation.
The London Eye is also a hub of innovation and technology. The wheel rotates 7,668 times annually, covering a distance equivalent to 2,300 miles—the same as traveling from London to Cairo. Each rotation lasts approximately 30 minutes, offering a serene and unforgettable journey for all who ride. In addition to its role as a landmark, the London Eye plays a significant part in London’s tourism industry, contributing millions to the local economy every year.
The London Eye has also attracted numerous celebrities, with many choosing to take a ride for a unique perspective on the city. Supermodel Kate Moss holds the record for the UK celebrity who has enjoyed the most rotations, with an impressive 25 rides on the wheel over the years.
Dominique Sidley, Global VP Indirect Sales – Merlin Entertainments, shared her thoughts on the London Eye’s global reach: “India is a key market for the London Eye. With a good mix of the traditional group series travellers and the young and vibrant new-age FIT traveler, we at Merlin Entertainments look forward to welcoming our Indian visitors at the London Eye in 2025. The global appeal of the attraction continues to grow, and we are excited about the future. We hope the next 25 years bring even more memories for visitors from all over the world, especially those from India, who have a deep connection to the UK.”
Shannon Bailey, Regional Director – APAC, Merlin Entertainments, added, “India is a strategic focus market for Merlin. On my recent visit to India, I had the opportunity to meet with several Trade Partners who were present at the London Eye in the year 2000 and still vividly remember the opening day of the London Eye and the festivities around it. These long-lasting relationships that Merlin shares with our Indian trade partners are incredibly special, and we’re excited to continue growing this bond and welcoming more visitors from India in the years to come.”
As the London Eye looks forward to its next 25 years, it remains a beacon of innovation and a cherished part of London’s cultural fabric. Here’s to many more years of unforgettable views, moments, and experiences.
