Looking to experience the best of London in a day with the family in tow? Try a fun-packed outing at the London Eye paired with a River Thames cruise!
Imagine gazing out from high above the city on the iconic London Eye, taking in sights like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben from a fresh new angle. Then, wind down with a leisurely river cruise that glides you by centuries-old landmarks and gives everyone a close-up view of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and more.
With a combination of thrilling heights and relaxing water views, it’s the ultimate way to explore the beauty and history of London in one unforgettable day. Intrigued? Let’s read on!!
Start with a Smooth Arrival
Getting to the London Eye is easy, but planning your arrival time and booking in advance is key to a smooth experience.
The best way to avoid the crowd is to get an early start; morning hours tend to be less busy, allowing you to skip long lines and enjoy the sights before it gets crowded. Plus, kids usually have more energy early in the day, making exploring even more fun.
Similarly, booking your London Eye and Thames river cruise ticket online beforehand allows you to use smartphone tickets for hassle-free entry. This means there is no need to worry about printing. And with the “fast-track” option, you can skip most of the line—perfect if you have young kids or just want to make the most of your time.
Planning ahead not only saves time but also ensures your family has a relaxing and enjoyable day right from the start.
Enjoy the London Eye: 30 Minutes Above the City
The London Eye is one of the world’s largest observation wheels, standing over 440 feet tall. It’s big, impressive, and offers a unique view of the city below. As your capsule rises, you’ll start spotting landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and even Buckingham Palace if the skies are clear. It’s a slow, smooth ride that takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, so you’ll have plenty of time to snap some family photos.
To make the most of this experience, get everyone involved in spotting landmarks. The kids will love pointing out things they recognize, and you can even make a mini “I Spy” game out of it. If it’s not too busy, you might even snag a seat in the capsule.
Relax and Recharge at the Eye Lounge
Before or after your time on the Eye, take a moment to relax at the Eye Lounge. It’s a nice, quiet spot where you can catch your breath, grab a snack, or go over the next part of your adventure. Little things like this make the day feel less hectic and give everyone a chance to recharge. You’ll be glad to have a cozy spot to rest, especially if you’re doing this full-day experience with kids.
Set Sail on the Thames River Cruise
After seeing London from above, it’s time to enjoy it from the water! The Thames River Cruise gives you a chance to sail right by many of London’s historic landmarks. You can pick a one-way trip or go for a round-trip cruise; either way, you’ll pass famous sights like the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and Tower Bridge.
One great perk of this cruise is the audio guide. It’s available in multiple languages, so everyone can listen in a language they’re comfortable with. The guide shares fun facts and historical details about each landmark, which can turn sightseeing into a mini-history lesson for the kids.
Pack a few snacks or grab some from a vendor near the pier to enjoy during the ride. It keeps everyone happy and occupied as you sail down the river.
Fun Activities for Kids on the Cruise
Keeping kids engaged on a boat can be tricky, but there are plenty of ways to make the cruise fun. Have a small sketchpad or a travel journal where they can draw the landmarks they see, or bring along a pair of small binoculars. Point out interesting features, like the high towers of Tower Bridge or the modern skyscrapers in the financial district.
If they’re old enough, encourage them to take photos. Kids love snapping their own pictures, and they may surprise you with some great angles!
Tips for Making the Most of Your Day
With these handy tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy a smooth and memorable adventure:
- Plan for the Weather: London’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring a light rain jacket just in case.
- Timing Is Everything: Try to get to the London Eye early, then enjoy a late-morning cruise. This can help you avoid the biggest crowds, making the experience more enjoyable and less rushed.
- Bring Essentials: Pack a few essentials like snacks, water, and maybe a small game or toy to keep younger kids occupied during the waiting periods.
- Restroom Breaks: Restrooms are available at the London Eye and near the pier, so take advantage of them before you start each part of your adventure.
- Be Flexible: Sometimes plans change, or things don’t go as expected. Remember, the tickets come with flexible rescheduling options, so you can make adjustments if needed.
- Capture the Views, Not Just the Selfies: While a selfie or two is fun, remember to take in the views together without screens. This little mindfulness tip makes the day feel even more special.
- Plan a Fun “Treasure Hunt”: Make a list of famous landmarks to spot, like Big Ben or Tower Bridge, turning it into a mini “treasure hunt” for everyone.
A Day to Remember: Wrapping It Up
As you wrap up your day, take a few minutes to relax by the river or grab a snack from a nearby café. Reflect on all the sights you’ve seen, from the historic Houses of Parliament to the modern skyscrapers that shape London’s skyline today. The memories you make here, high above the city and down along the Thames, will be ones you’ll cherish for years to come.
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