London Eye

Lonely Planet review

It takes a gracefully slow 30 minutes and, weather permitting, you can see 25 miles in every direction from the top of the world's tallest Ferris wheel. To the west lies Windsor, while to the east the sea. In between, you have the chance to pick out familiar landmarks. A ride in one of the wheel's 32 glass-enclosed gondolas holding up to 25 people is something you really can't miss if you want to say you've 'done' London.

It's difficult to remember what London looked like before the landmark London Eye began twirling at the southwestern end of Jubilee Gardens during the millennium year. Not only has it fundamentally altered the skyline of the South Bank but, standing 135m tall in a fairly flat city, it is visible from many surprising parts of the city (eg Kennington and Mayfair).

You can save 10% on standard 'flight' - as sponsor BA likes to call it - prices and avoid the queues to buy tickets by booking online (minimum two hours before your chosen time). Be sure to arrive 30 minutes in advance.