Is the London Eye the Biggest Ferris Wheel?

By Robert Palmer

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames in London, England. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.

But is it the biggest Ferris wheel in the world? Let’s find out.

The History of Ferris Wheels

Ferris wheels have been a popular attraction since their introduction at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, USA. The first Ferris wheel was built by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., an American engineer, and was 264 feet tall. Since then, Ferris wheels have become a staple at amusement parks and tourist attractions all around the world.

Is the London Eye the Biggest Ferris Wheel?

No, the London Eye is not the biggest Ferris wheel in the world. In fact, it doesn’t even make it into the top five.

The current record holder for tallest Ferris wheel is the High Roller in Las Vegas, USA. It stands at a whopping 550 feet tall – more than double the height of the London Eye.

Other Giant Ferris Wheels

But there are other giant Ferris wheels around that come close to beating out both these giants:

  • The Ain Dubai in Dubai, UAE – Standing at 820 feet tall.
  • The Nanchang Starry Sky Wheel in Nanchang, China – Standing at 525 feet tall.
  • The Singapore Flyer in Singapore – Standing at 541 feet tall.

What Makes The London Eye Special?

So if it’s not even close to being one of the biggest Ferris wheels in terms of height, what makes The London Eye so special? Well, for starters, it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world when it was first built in 1999. It held that title until 2006 when the Star of Nanchang was completed in China.

But more than just its height, The London Eye is also unique because of its location and design. It offers stunning views of some of London’s most famous landmarks, such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. And its distinctive shape – with its spherical observation capsules – makes it instantly recognizable.

Conclusion

While The London Eye is not the biggest Ferris wheel in the world, it is still one of the most iconic. Its location and design make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting London. And if you’re looking for a bigger thrill, you can always head to Las Vegas or Dubai to experience even taller Ferris wheels.