Emirates Air Line Cable Car in London
Emirates Air Line – Cable Car in London’s Royal Docks and Greenwich Peninsula
The first association that comes to mind when you think about the cable car is an attraction somewhere in the mountains scenic area, but London seems a little unlikely due to its location in a lowland area, without any hills or mountains. Nothing could be more wrong; it’s all about modern, simple design, which you may have not noticed against the background of the city’s great attractions.
Where to find cable car?
The cable car in London is crossing over the River Thames, or rather you could say the flight, it is really exciting way to travel. From the cable car gondola you can enjoy a 360-degree skyline over London. Most striking is the sight of huge skyscrapers drawing in the distance at Canary Wharf and the magnificent O2 Arena. Other landmarks you may spot include the Cutty Sark, The steamship SS Robin, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, modern apartment buildings in Greenwich Peninsula, Royal Observatory, The Thames Barriers, ExCel London, The Crystal, Container City II or Trinity Buoy Wharf and of course the fantastic perspective from above on the River Thames. If you’re lucky enough you may witness a plane landing or taking off at the nearby London-City Airport. Because London is also one big construction site you will see many cranes and new buildings springing up like mushrooms.
Emirates Air Line – informations
It’s truly trilling feeling when the cable car is starting to move up and finally rises to a height of 295 ft. (90 meters), allowing you to see the far horizon of the city. A very interesting option is to fly over the River Thames at sunset or just after dark. The many twinkling lights on the London skyline look extraordinary and from another perspective, the illuminated city creates a unique experience and even a slightly romantic and special atmosphere. Please note that the cable car isn’t open 24 hours a day, in summer (1 April to 30 September) opening hours are extended by 1 hour. It’s really a fantastic experience, with many breath-taking views. Adding this attraction to your list and taking your time for this memorable ride is something you should definitely do.
Prices
The Emirates Air Line is a very reasonably priced attraction compared to, for example, the London Eye. The experience and the panorama are quite similar but for the price of an expensive ticket on the Millennium Wheel you could even take the cable car few times. The ride on the London Eye lasts longer because the rotation of the wheel is very slow. We suggest you choose both attractions, because both are exciting.
Urban Cable Cars – the future of transport
This environmentally friendly solution, emits no CO2, reduces noise and pollution and uses low-energy electricity. Although there are no precise studies on the subject, it is certain that innovative urban cable cars relieve congested streets and are an alternative to classical transport.
What you need to know about the Emirates Air Line Cable Car in London?
If you are a tourist we suggest you avoid visiting during rush hour when many people choose the cable car instead of the tube on their way home or work. The cable car cabins hold a maximum of 10 people and depart every 30 seconds. At certain times when there are no queues you may be lucky enough to travel alone because the rotation is very fluent and the gondolas do not wait for passengers to fully occupy their seats.
How long does it take to cross the River Thames on the Emirates Air Line Cable Car?
A one-way journey over the River Thames usually takes 10 minutes. However, evening courses are extended by 2-3 minutes to enhance the relaxing experience and to enjoy the city lights. Unfortunately, during weekday rush hours, between 07:00-09:00 in the morning, the cable car speeds up and so the time is reduced by about 5 minutes. So keep this in mind because no one wants to end up in a crowded cabin.
Where can I find the Emirates Air Line Cable Car in London?
The London Cable Car has only two stations, which are an alternative way to travel across the River Thames. The first terminal is located in Greenwich Peninsula next to O2 Arena and North Greenwich tube station, while the second station is at Royal Docks, near Royal Victoria Tube Station.
Emirates Greenwich Peninsula
Address: Emirates Cable Car Terminal Edmund Halley Way, London SE10 0FR, North Greenwich
Emirates Royal Docks
Address: 27 Western Gateway, Royal Docks, London E16 1FA
