What cost around £60 million to build, stretches a kilometre over the Thames, but is used by only 4 commuters a week? If you’re good on your London trivia you’ll know the answer is the Emirates Air Line, the gondola that passes from the Emirates Royal Docks to the O2 in Greenwich. Surprisingly few people in London seem to know of its existence or consider it a valid option for sightseeing but with Louise, Jono and Jess visiting from New Zealand I had the perfect excuse to give it a go.
Emirates Royal Docks – the northern station
It’s easy to reach the Air Line from either the DLR or the Underground, and you can go one way across the river or get a round trip if you’re just in it for the views. There didn’t seem to be a whole lot on the northern side unless you’re interested in the ExCeL expo centre, but the O2 on the southern side has loads of restaurants, bars, a movie cinema and a club in its concourse – as well as a great lineup of gigs.
It was late on an autumn afternoon by the time we made it to the Air Line, but with the sun breaking through the clouds we got some fantastic views back to the City and down to the Thames Barrier.
The Thames Barrier
It was a little windy when we were up above the river but aside from a couple of buffets we didn’t really notice – the gondolas are pretty solid!
I really liked the different views we got from the Air Line – I’m so used to viewing the city from the west that it was great to have the different perspective.
Bits & Pieces
Going one way on the Air Line costs £3.20 for an adult and £1.20 for a child with an Oyster card – other prices here
You can reach the Emirates Royal Docks station of the Air Line by taking the DLR to Royal Victoria, or the North Greenwich Underground station next to the O2 by catching the Jubilee Line
(Information correct as at 5 January 2014)
