🎡 Three Generations, One Giant Wheel: Our Family Day on the London Eye
- alanjohnjeffery
- Sep 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 22
They say London is best seen from above—and we decided to test that theory with a full family expedition to the London Eye. Not just a couple of us, mind you. Oh no. We went full Brady Bunch meets Big Ben: my wife and I, our 17-year-old son and his girlfriend, and my father-in-law with his wife. That’s three generations, one capsule, and zero escape routes.
As we boarded the Eye, I had a moment of reflection (and mild panic): six people, one rotating pod, and 30 minutes of uninterrupted family bonding. What could possibly go wrong?
Spoiler alert: absolutely nothing. It was brilliant.
From the top, London stretched out like a Monopoly board—Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s, the Shard, all looking like they’d been placed there by a very stylish urban planner with a flair for drama. My son tried to impress his girlfriend with fun facts he’d Googled five minutes earlier. My father-in-law pointed out landmarks with the authority of someone who’s lived through most of them being built. And I just stood there, soaking it all in, thinking: This is pretty special.
There’s something magical about seeing the city from 135 metres up, especially when you’re surrounded by people you love (and who occasionally drive you mad). It wasn’t just a ride—it was a reminder that London has a way of bringing people together, whether you’re 8 or 80.
So if you’re planning a day out in London and wondering whether the Eye is worth it—trust me, it is. Especially if you can cram three generations into one capsule. It’s like a family reunion, but with better views and fewer arguments.
Because nothing says “family bonding” like being trapped in a giant glass pod 135 metres above London with nowhere to hide and everyone pretending not to be afraid of heights.
Highlights from the Sky
From our capsule, we saw:
• Big Ben, standing proud despite its scaffolding
• St Paul’s Cathedral, gleaming in the distance
• The Shard, slicing through the skyline
• Buckingham Palace, nestled among the trees
• And even the winding path of the Thames, guiding our gaze across the city
Tips for a Multi-Generational Visit
If you're planning a family trip with grandparents and kids, here are a few tips:
• Book a time slot that avoids peak hours—late morning or early afternoon is ideal.
• Choose a private capsule if you want a quieter, more intimate experience.
• Bring snacks and water, especially for younger children or older adults.
• Pair the visit with a riverside walk or lunch at one of the nearby restaurants—there’s plenty to explore around the South Bank.
Why the London Eye Works for All Ages
The London Eye is gentle, accessible, and visually stunning. It doesn’t require stamina or speed—just curiosity. Whether you're 7 or 70, the experience is equally awe-inspiring. It’s one of those rare attractions that truly brings people together, offering a shared view of the city and a shared moment in time.
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