The UK's most underwhelming tourist attraction revealed costing a ridiculous £42

The London Eye has been named the most overrated tourist traps in the UK (Image: Getty Images)

Britain’s most overrated tourist attraction that cost a ridiculous £42 has been revealed in a survey.

The London Eye, an iconic landmark and a major tourist attraction located on the South Bank of the River Thames in London has topped the list. 

The survey conducted by Preply, an online English course provider, has shown that not all tourist spots are living up to visitors' expectations.

Analysing the visitor reviews from two leading travel platforms to identify which locations are deemed the most "underwhelming", the study concluded that the London Eye is the most overrated. 

The survey stated: “Despite offering sweeping views of London’s urban scrawl, it also unfortunately comes top of the list for the UK’s most stressful tourist traps. 

“As well as expensive tickets and eye-wateringly long lines, reviewers are disappointed by the lack of information on the sights or history of London.”

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel with a height of 135 meters (443 feet) (Image: Getty Images)

The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, was designed by architects David Marks, Julia Barfield, Malcolm Cook, Mark Sparrowhawk, and Steven Chilton. It was constructed as part of London's millennium celebrations and was officially opened to the public on March 9, 2000.

The iconic tourist attraction with a height of 135 meters (443 feet) consists of a total of 32 passenger capsules, each capable of accommodating up to 25 people. 

It offers breathtaking panoramic views of London's skyline and landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Tower of London. On a clear day, visitors can see up to 40 kilometres (25 miles) in all directions.

A ride on the London Eye typically lasts for about 30 minutes, during which passengers are treated to a slow rotation, allowing ample time to take in the sights and capture memorable photos. The capsules are air-conditioned and equipped with interactive touchscreen displays providing information about the landmarks visible from the observation wheel. 

A ride on the London Eye typically lasts for about 30 minutes (Image: Getty Images)

While the tourist attraction has been rated "overrated", many have raved about it. One user wrote on TripAdvisor: "Based on our experience there is no need for fast track tickets for this attraction in London. Granted we went in April, on a weekday and an hour or so before the sunset. We had a great time. Lovely experience to do at least once."

A second user said: "Absolutely one of the best experiences I have done. Please do the trip at night you see all of London lit up and looks beautiful. Made some amazing memories I will cherish. Looking to return in August 2024. (sic)"

A third user said: "Lovely clear day for our trip. Great views. Was an unexpected trip for us but thoroughly enjoyed it, as did our family. Can recommend a visit, book a time slot makes the experience so easy.(sic)"

However, a few travellers expressed their disappointment as well. One user wrote: "Arrived just prior to the scheduled time and was advised to come back later. Came back at the scheduled time and was forced to wait in queue for 45 minutes. Little point in providing a reserved time when they do not deliver the agreed product at that time. All seems part of a scam that wants you to buy an express ticket for an additional £15 for each person. Overall not good value for money and a poor service."

Another said: "The price is absurd and isn’t worth the ride also because it’s pretty boring and they also put you in a cabin with a lot of people."

A lastminute.com London Eye spokesperson told Express.co.uk: “We have never heard of this research, which is not reflected by the feedback on recognised sites where the London Eye is rated #3 of 90,000+ things to do in the UK, and 83 percent of guests rate the attraction as 'excellent' or 'very good'. 

“Our own data from thousands of guests every week tells us they have a wonderful time, with 96 percent  telling us they are satisfied or very satisfied with their visit in 2023.

“The London Eye is one of the UK’s most-loved and visited attractions, right at the centre of the South Bank, directly across from Big Ben, it is in the heart of London.”  

1. The London Eye

2. Royal Mile

3. Stonehenge

4. Madame Tussauds

5. Edinburgh Castle

6. Tower of London

7. The Eden Project

8. The Giant's Causeway

9. Roman Baths

10. Warwick Castle