London Eye

The London Eye opened in 2000 and has become one of the city's best-known sights. Its 32 glass capsules move slowly enough for you to step aboard while the wheel turns, and one rotation takes about 30 minutes, rising to 135 metres above the South Bank.

From the top you look straight across the river at the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and on a clear day far across London. Fast-track entry and private capsules are popular with families and with couples celebrating an occasion.

Late afternoon and dusk are good times to ride, as the city lights come on. Combine it with a river cruise from the pier at the foot of the wheel and a walk along the South Bank.