The Emirates Air Line, also known as the "London Cable Car", has been taking its passengers in 34 gondolas from Greenwich across the Thames to the Royal Docks since 2012 and offers a fantastic panoramic flight over London.
Since 28 June 2012, a gondola lift, the "Emirates Air Line", has been running across the Thames in London, connecting the two London boroughs of Greenwich and Docklands. A British construction company was responsible for the construction of the Emirates Air Line, the technology came from the Austrian ropeway specialist Doppelmayr.
The Emirates Air Line, also known as the "London Cable Car", was opened for the 2012 Summer Olympics and is named after the airline "Emirates", which sponsored more than half of the construction costs with a sum of 46 million euros. This is the first time in London's history that a public means of transport bears the name of a private sponsor.
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IMAGES: London's Emirates Air Line Cable Car
Image collection: Emirates Air Line Cable Car in London
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Get the Most Out of Your Emirates Air Line Experience
If you're planning to take a ride on the Emirates Air Line cable car in London, be sure to check out the operating hours for a smooth and hassle-free trip. The cable car operates daily from 7am to 9pm, allowing you to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city throughout the day.
On Saturdays, the Emirates Air Line opens a bit later at 8am, giving you a chance to start your weekend adventure a little later. On Mondays, it opens at 9am, perfect for those who want to skip the early morning rush. During the winter season, the cable car closes earlier at 8pm.
It's important to note that from 10am to 3pm, the gondolas' speed is halved compared to the morning and evening rush hours. This schedule adjustment ensures a more relaxed and leisurely ride that allows you to fully soak in the breathtaking sights. Additionally, the journey time from Greenwich to the Royal Docks during these hours is extended to 10 minutes, double the usual duration. So take your time and make the most of this extended journey, capturing memorable photos and creating unforgettable experiences.
Tickets for the Emirates Air Line
To really enjoy the magnificent view of London, a 360° ticket can also be purchased at the ticket office or online, which can be used to travel back and forth across the Thames (but only outside peak times). For up to 10 people, an entire gondola can be rented for a panoramic tour. With the Oyster Card or the Travelcard there are discounts on ticket prices.
Tip: Panorama tours should be started between 10 am and 3 pm, at this time the gondola passengers float longer over London for the same ticket price! Attention: In case of thunderstorms or strong storms, the operation of the gondola may be suspended!
The two stations "Emirates Greenwich Peninsula" and "ExCel Exhibition Centre" are located in the immediate vicinity of two sports venues where competitions of the Olympic Games were held in 2012.
Greenwich Peninsula
The southern terminus of the Emirates Air Line cable car system is conveniently situated near the O2 Arena. This remarkable venue served as the site for the final rounds of basketball and gymnastics during the prestigious 2012 Olympic Games. Access to the Emirates Greenwich Peninsula, meanwhile, is provided via North Greenwich station by availing the transport conveniences of the London Tube.
Royal Docks
The northern end of the London Gondola is in the immediate vicinity of the ExCel Exhibition Centre. The Olympic competitions in martial arts and weightlifting were held here in 2012.
A Closer Look at the Emirates Air Line: Key Facts
Gondola Count
34
Carriageway Span
1,103 metres
Height Over Thames
Approximately 50 metres
Journey Duration
Between 5 and 10 minutes
Top Speed Limit
21.6 km/h
Construction Expenses
76 million Euros
Useful Links:
Visit the Official Emirates Air Line in London to purchase tickets online
Discover more about the Oyster Card
Learn more about the London Travelcard
Purchase the London Pass online here
Did you know? The Emirates Air Line was launched in 2012 for the London Olympics and now serves as a convenient form of public transportation between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. Its futuristic design and stunning views of the city make it a popular attraction for tourists to make soaring photographs.
Lodging Options in the United Kingdom
If you're planning a visit to the United Kingdom, you might want to consider these superb lodging options:
Experience the splendid city of London's top notch hotels. You might also want to explore the hotels in London at hotels-of-london.com for even more choices.
Surround yourself with the countryside beauty with splendid accommodations in London's outskirts.
Immerse in the Scottish culture with the Edinburgh's hotel offerings.
Discover the urban charm of Manchester through its accommodations.
Experience the dynamic and vibrant city of Glasgow with a wide range of hotels.
Let the maritime city of Liverpool welcome you with its many accommodation options.
Unearth the beauty of England's accommodations.
From highlands to lowlands, you have various hotel options in Scotland.
Embrace the Welsh heritage with the comfortable accommodations in Wales.
Enjoy the scenic splendor of Yorkshire from one of its cozy hotels.
Experience the natural beauty of Cornwall with diverse accommodation options.
Explore beautiful landscapes while lodging in the Highlands.
Finally, enjoy a tranquil getaway to the Isle of Wight and its inviting accommodations.
You'll find that each of these regions offer unique and quality accommodations catering to all kinds of travelers. Enjoy your stay in the United Kingdom!
Travel Features on United Kingdom Holidays
10 Must-See Attractions in Great Britain
10 Not-to-Miss Sites in London
The Iconic Houses of Parliament of London
Discovering the Scottish Highlands
Inside Scotland's Balmoral Castle
The Mystical Stonehenge in England
A Glimpse of the London Eye
Exploring the Depths of Loch Ness in Scotland
The Majestic Cardiff Castle of Wales
The Marvel of Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland