London Eye and SEA LIFE Aquarium Tickets

Things to know before booking London Eye and SEA LIFE tickets

• Book in advance: Prices often fluctuate and are generally cheaper when booked online and in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking ahead also guarantees your preferred time slots.
  
• What's included: The ​London Eye aquarium ticket includes a 30-min rotation in a climate-controlled capsule at the London Eye and access to the SEA LIFE London Aquarium’s 14 themed zones and thousands of marine creatures.
  
• Fast-track access: To bypass potentially long queues at the London Eye, consider upgrading your tickets for fast-track entry. This can save you 30-60 mins or more.
  
• Proximity: Both attractions are conveniently located next to each other on the South Bank, making it easy to visit them on the same day.
  
• Flexible visit: A major benefit of ​combo tickets is the flexibility to visit the attractions on separate days. Your SEA LIFE London Eye tickets are valid for 90 days from your London Eye visit. This allows you to plan your itinerary without rushing.
  
• Timed entry: While the combo ticket offers flexibility in terms of visiting days, you will usually need to book a specific date and time slot for your entry to the London Eye and SEA LIFE Aquarium. Follow the instructions on your booking confirmation to reserve your time slots.
  
• Check opening hours: Always verify the latest opening and closing times for both attractions on their official websites before your visit, as these can vary seasonally or due to special events/maintenance. The London Eye, for example, closes for maintenance for a period in January each year.
  
• Accessibility: Both the London Eye and SEA LIFE are fully wheelchair accessible. Each London Eye pod can accommodate up to two wheelchair users, with a total of eight allowed on the Eye at any given time. The aquarium is spread over three floors, all accessible via lifts. Both attractions offer free entry to a carer for disabled guests upon presentation of valid documentation. Guide dogs and other assistance animals are also welcome at both attractions.
  
• Age restrictions: Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times at both the London Eye and SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
  
• Cashless: Be aware that many attractions, including SEA LIFE London, are now cashless, so be prepared to make on-site payments using a contactless bank card.

Want to dive into just the SEA LIFE London Aquarium?

Ready to swap the bustling city for an underwater adventure? Come face-to-fin with sharks, watch penguins waddle and dive, or gaze in awe at sea turtles gliding by. From the UK's largest coral reef to jellyfish displays, every turn brings a new discovery.

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Location

Both the London Eye and SEA LIFE Aquarium are located right next to each other on the South Bank of the River Thames. This means you'll spend less time traveling between attractions and more time enjoying London's sights.

Here’s how easy it is getting between them:

The exit from the London Eye leads directly onto the South Bank promenade, and the entrance to SEA LIFE London Aquarium is a few steps away – often less than a 1-min walk!

​Getting to the London Eye

Local tips

Insider's guide to the area

• Pre-London Eye/Aquarium fuel up: A short walk east along the South Bank, ​Gabriel's Wharf offers independent cafes and eateries that are better value and less crowded than the immediate vicinity of the Eye. If you're an early bird and don't mind a 15-20 min walk across London Bridge (or a short tube ride), ​Borough Market offers an array of breakfast options, pastries, and coffee for a more local feel.
  
• Post-visit wind down: Wander slightly away from the South Bank tourist hub towards the Waterloo station area. You'll find a wider range of independent restaurants, pubs, and coffee shops that cater more to locals. The Cut offers a selection of pubs, theatres, and restaurants, perfect for a post-sightseeing meal or drink. Keep an eye out for the street performers along the South Bank for free entertainment.
  
• Escape the crowds: Located right beside the London Eye, ​Jubilee Gardens offers benches and a slightly less intense atmosphere than the main promenade, perfect for a quick breather. Duck into the foyers of the ​National Theatre or ​Southbank Centre for a moment of quiet, use their facilities, or grab a coffee away from the crowds.

Optimizing your experience

• Fast-track is worth it: While an extra cost, if you're visiting during peak seasons (school holidays, weekends, summer), the London Eye fast track ticket can save you significant queuing time, up to an hour or more. This allows you more time to enjoy the attractions themselves and less time waiting in line.
  
• Photography tip: For the best photos, try to time your London Eye ride around "golden hour" (the hour just before sunset) for soft, warm light. During the ride, try to avoid reflections by positioning your camera as close to the glass as possible and using a lens hood if you have one.
  
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium flow: Don't rush through the aquarium. Many exhibits, especially the larger tanks, reward patient observation. Look up the schedule for animal talks and feeding times upon arrival. These are incredibly informative and engaging experiences.
  
• Allow ample time: While the proximity is great, don't underschedule. A London Eye rotation is 30 mins, and you'll want at least 1.5 to 2 hours (or more if you're very keen on marine life) to fully explore the aquarium. Factor in queueing, even with timed tickets, and transition time. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 3-4 hours for both attractions combined, not including travel to and from the area or lunch breaks.

Avoiding common mistakes

• Don't overschedule: Trying to squeeze in too many activities in one half-day will lead to rushing and stress. These two attractions offer plenty to see and do.
  
• Book your preferred time slot: Even with a ​London Eye and SEA LIFE combo ticket, you will almost certainly need to book a specific date and time slot for both the London Eye and SEA LIFE Aquarium. Do this well in advance, especially during busy periods.
  
• Check for annual maintenance: The London Eye typically closes for a period in January for annual maintenance. Always check their official website for precise dates if you're planning a winter visit.

​Plan your visit to the London Eye