London

[ShellyHall]

I am planning a short trip to London next week and am staying in a hotel at Docklands.  It is my first trip to London and was wondering whether anyone can tell me how far away the London Eye is from Docklands, ie. is it within walking distance or should I get a cab?  If I need to get a cab any idea how much this will be?  Many thanks.

[spudqueen]

Too far to walk, wouldn't like to guess on cab fare, could you not get the tube or bus?

Don't forget to book in advance for the London Eye - you can do so on the internet.

[Golem]

As this is your first trip to London I'd suggest taking the Docklands Light Railway - an driverless overground train - that will take you from Docklands to Tower Gateway. Always fun to get in the front carriage and pretend that you're driving, no matter how old you are! It'll give you a good view of the Docklands area as well. From Tower Gateway catch a double decker bus (always something you must do on a first visit) to Embankment. Again, you'll see much more from the top deck than sitting in the back of a cab. And it's considerably cheaper, one ticket will cover both train and bus. Once at Embankment it's not too far a walk across the river and along the South Bank to the Eye, near Waterloo Station. Lots of information about London Transport if you google.

[jno]

Jubilee line tube from Canary Wharf to Waterloo would do it in 10 minutes or so plus a 5-minute stroll at the Waterloo end. If you want the scenic route, take Golem's advice.

[GracieC]

As it's your first trip, it might be easier to get the tube - Jubilee line from Canary Wharf is only 5 stops to Waterloo and the London Eye is very close to Waterloo station. I recommend buying a travel card for zones 1-2 as you can then use this ticket on all forms of transport so you could get the Docklands Light Railway back to Canary Wharf which, as suggested, would be the more scenic route.

ps. as London Eye is right on the river, if you have time, i recommend taking a walk along the river afterwards and then going over Waterloo bridge as you get a cracking view of Big Ben, Tower Bridge and St Pauls.  Enjoy!