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  • Greenwich Observation Wheel

  • Until Sep 28 2008
  • This event has finished
  • Greenwich Observation Wheel, College Approach, London, SE10 9LW
  • Rating:

  • By Anthony Ing

    Posted: Mon Jul 7 2008

  • Greenwich Council had concerns that its new attraction would be garish and out of place, but these have proved misplaced. Despite its height (60 metres), the construction remains hidden among the trees. Architecturally it’s certainly not a patch on the  London Eye, and the refreshments stall next to the entrance reinforces fairground connotations. It does have some sophisticated features: suspended from  a white structure peppered with bright LED lights, the closed pods have tinted windows, padded seats and air conditioning.

    Once aboard, I realise just how compact each gondola is. Great if shared with friends or family, otherwise the experience could resemble an uncomfortable elevator ride. As the wheel turns, the view is initially unimpressive. Apart from the stunning Old Royal Naval College behind me, all I can see of London are cranes and very ordinary-looking office towers. But as we rise, a unique view of the capital is revealed, with the O2 (the former Dome) in the foreground. Other iconic buildings are also visible from this unusual perspective, including the Tower of London and the Gherkin. The buildings surrounding the South Bank are seen from an angle that makes me feel as if I’m looking into London from outside. As the wind whistles past the pod – rocking it back and fourth – I’m nagged by vertigo and nausea, although this is mitigated by the  air conditioning.

    The Greenwich Wheel is undoubtedly an addition to the local attractions. But as it’s peaking I can’t help but gaze at its rival in the distance and ask myself: Wouldn’t I rather be on the Eye instead?
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