• Search what's on:

  • Advanced

  • Greenwich Observation Wheel

  • Until Sep 28
    • Critics' Choice
  • Greenwich Observation Wheel, College Approach, London, SE10 9LW
  • Rating:
  • Greenwich Observation Wheel

    © Anthony Ing

  • By Anthony Ing

    Posted: Mon Jul 7

  • 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?
Add your comment to this listing

2 comments

  1. Posted by none on 10 Aug 2008 18:12

    £7 for adults I think

    Report this comment as inappropriate
  2. Posted by Ashwin on 18 Jul 2008 13:11

    Tell us the cost brother, tell us the cost!

    Report this comment as inappropriate

Have your say






Advertisement

  • Map

Date of the day

BeautifulDay101

After a few years of thoroughly enjoying my new career (ask me later), I have just realised that, though I have made some fantastic friends in my...

Travel Supermarket
Flights to London
Hotels in London
London Car Hire
Venere.com
London hotel deals
hotel.info
Guest reviews of London hotels
Expedia.co.uk logo
hotels in London
Great travel deals
Hotels.com
hotels in London

More ways to enjoy Time Out