London Eye Christmas 2025: Festive Lights, Insider Tips & More

Plan your Christmas at the London Eye

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

By Tube: Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines
Nearest station: Waterloo (5-min walk)
By train: National Rail
Nearest station: Waterloo and Charing Cross Station
By bus: 1, 12, 59, 68, 76, 77, 139, 148, 159, 168, 176, 188, 211, 243, 77, 381, 507, and 521.
Nearest stop: London Eye

Budget hotels: Travelodge London Central Waterloo (from £80 | 890 m), Premier Inn London County Hall Hotel (from £88 | 130 m), Point A London, Westminster (from £87 | 660 m)
Mid-range hotels: The Z Hotel Trafalgar (from £106 | 860 m), ibis London Blackfriars (from £116 | 1 km), Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo (from £157 | 840 m)
Luxury hotels: The Grand (from £202 | 620 m), Park Plaza County Hall London (from £231 | 330 m), The Waldorf Hilton, London (from £271 | 1 km)

Wheelchair accessibility: Both the London Eye and the London Eye River Cruise are fully wheelchair accessible. Each London Eye pod can comfortably accommodate up to two wheelchair users, and a maximum of 3 wheelchair users are permitted per river cruise.
Carer tickets: Free carer tickets are available for guests requiring accessible assistance.
Braille and visual guides: Braille guides are provided for both the London Eye and the river cruise, ensuring expert commentary is accessible to all.
Service animals: Assistance dogs are welcome on the London Eye, provided they are identifiable as service dogs.

Layer up: The key to staying comfortable. Start with a thermal or long-sleeved shirt under a sweater or fleece to regulate your body temperature.
Weatherproof outerwear: Bring a warm coat or jacket. Ensure it's waterproof or water-resistant, as London can be prone to winter showers.
Accessories are essential: Don't forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep your head, hands, and neck warm. These can also add a delightful festive touch to your outfit!
Comfortable, waterproof footwear: You'll likely be doing a fair bit of walking, and London can be wet in December. Keep your feet dry and happy with comfortable, waterproof boots or shoes.
Embrace the festive spirit: Consider adding a fun, festive touch to your outfit! This could be a Christmas sweater, holiday-themed accessories, or even a splash of red or green in your clothing.

The London Eye itself does not have dedicated parking facilities, and it falls within the Congestion Charge Zone (which operates Monday–Friday 7am–6pm, Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holidays 12pm–6pm). However, please note that the Congestion Charge is typically suspended between Christmas Day and the New Year's Day bank holiday, so check the latest TFL guidance for 2025 closer to the time.

Nearby parking options:

Q-Park Westminster Car Park
National Theatre Car Park
Parking for Blue Badge holders (disabled parking): The nearest car park with dedicated blue badge parking spaces is South Bank Parking by Apcoa.

Always be aware of any specific parking restrictions, especially during the busy holiday season, and check current charges and availability.

Insider tips for a Merry London Eye Christmas

Embrace the evening glow: Consider visiting during the evening hours when London sparkles with its Christmas lights. The panoramic views of the illuminated city from the London Eye are simply magical.
Charge your devices: Ensure your camera and phone are fully charged to capture every sparkling moment and all your festive memories.
Combine your celebrations: The London Eye is perfectly situated to be part of a larger Christmas itinerary.
- Southbank Centre Winter Market: Just steps away, this market offers delicious festive food, drinks, and unique crafts. (Runs typically from early November to late December).
- Christmas Lights Tour: Consider booking a festive bus tour to see London's most spectacular Christmas light displays after your Eye ride.
- Skating & more: Explore nearby ice skating rinks or other festive events happening across London.
Private pod for ultimate celebration: If you're celebrating with family or friends, consider booking a private pod for an exclusive and truly memorable Christmas experience. (Note: this is a significant splurge but offers a VIP experience).

Discover nearby Christmas markets & dining

Christmas market stalls with festive lights in a European city.

Festive markets

Southbank Centre Winter Market: Right on your doorstep! Indulge in mulled delicacies, hot chocolate, mince pies, and discover handcrafted gifts. It typically runs from early November until late December.
Christmas by the River at London Bridge City: A short stroll away, offering views of Tower Bridge alongside charming stalls and festive food.
Borough Market at Christmas: A foodie's paradise that gets even more magical during the holidays, offering seasonal treats and gourmet delights.
Covent Garden Christmas: Famous for its giant Christmas tree, decorations, street performers, and unique boutiques.

Tourists enjoying a three-course dinner during a small group day and night tour of Niagara.

Festive dining

Fine dining with views:
- Skylon: Modern European cuisine with Thames views, just a short walk from the London Eye. Perfect for a pre-Eye dinner.
- Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar: Located in the Marriott County Hall, offering delicious British steaks and a classic atmosphere.
Casual & cozy: Numerous pubs and casual eateries along the South Bank provide a warm respite and hearty meals. Many will offer festive specials.
Christmas market delights: Don't forget the incredible array of street food and festive treats available at the nearby Christmas markets!

Frequently Asked Questions about the London Eye Christmas celebrations

What can I expect from the Christmas celebration at the London Eye?

Christmas at the London Eye is a magical experience. The attraction is adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a Christmassy atmosphere. From the pods, you'll get panoramic views of London twinkling with its city-wide Christmas lights and decorated landmarks.

Will the London Eye pods be specially decorated for Christmas?

While the London Eye itself is typically lit up festively, and the area around it is decorated, individual pods may or may not have specific seasonal decorations. However, the overall atmosphere and the views of a festive London make every ride feel special.

Can I book a private pod for a Christmas celebration?

Yes, private pod bookings are available year-round and are a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas with family or friends in an exclusive setting. These often come with special add-ons like hosted drinks. Be sure to book well in advance, as they are very popular during the festive season.

Are there dining options at or near the London Eye during Christmas?

While the London Eye itself doesn't have full-service dining within its structure, there are various dining options available very close by. The South Bank area is teeming with restaurants, cafes, and pubs, many of which offer special Christmas menus. The nearby Southbank Centre Winter Market also provides an array of festive food and drink stalls.

Are there family-friendly activities during Christmas at the London Eye?

The London Eye itself is a family-friendly attraction. During Christmas, the festive atmosphere and the incredible views of the city's decorations make it a memorable experience for children. Additionally, the surrounding South Bank area often hosts various family-focused activities, entertainment, and Christmas markets that are perfect for all ages.

Can I purchase Christmas gifts or souvenirs at the London Eye?

Yes, the London Eye has gift shops where you can find a range of souvenirs, including some with Christmas themes. It's a great opportunity to pick up a memento of your festive visit or a unique gift for loved ones.

Is the London Eye open on Christmas Day?

No, the London Eye is closed on Christmas Day (December 25) to allow staff to celebrate the holiday. It reopens on December 26 with special Boxing Day hours.

Are the queues longer during the Christmas period?

Yes, the Christmas period is a very popular time to visit London and the London Eye. Expect longer queues than usual, especially during peak times and weekends. Booking tickets online in advance, including fast-track options, is highly recommended to minimize waiting times.