The London Eye, one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK, celebrates its 25th anniversary this month with the release of a new short film, Turning 25: London’s Eye. The 20-minute documentary, now available to stream on YouTube, captures the story of the London Eye’s evolution from a temporary millennium monument to a permanent cultural symbol of London. Featuring intimate interviews with a range of notable figures, the film offers a deep and personal look at how this architectural marvel has come to embody the spirit of the city.
The film highlights the journey of the London Eye as it transformed from an initial idea into a global landmark. Through reflections from key figures such as actors Russell Tovey (FX’s American Horror Story, HBO’s Looking) and David Harewood (Paramount+’s Happy Face, CW’s Supergirl), singer and songwriter Leigh-Anne Pinnock of Little Mix, and Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk, viewers are offered an inside look at how the Eye has impacted the lives of both locals and international stars. Additionally, Julia Barfield, one half of the architectural duo behind the design of the London Eye, shares her insights into the creation of the structure, along with contributions from renowned spoken word poet Emmanuel Speaks.
The short film is not just a documentary but a true love letter to both the city of London and its iconic wheel. Through personal stories and reflections, the film celebrates London’s evolution over the last 25 years, with the Eye playing an integral role in that journey.
A Landmark’s Legacy
The London Eye, now celebrating its 25th anniversary, was originally intended as a temporary marker for the year 2000—a symbol for the new millennium. Since its debut, however, it has become a permanent fixture in London’s skyline and a symbol of the city’s dynamic growth and transformation. The film Turning 25: London’s Eye reflects on the changes both in the city and in the lives of those who have experienced it firsthand.
David Harewood, an actor who moved to London early in his career, shares how the city’s vibrant atmosphere influenced his path. “One of the things that really used to excite me about London is that it was busy. The tube was noisy and kind of dirty. I came from Birmingham, which felt so small, and the minute you got off the train you were into this bustle—it just seemed so vibrant and exciting,” he recalls. For Harewood, London became a place of inspiration, offering both the diversity of ideas and the freedom to be creative.
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Similarly, Russell Tovey recalls his early years visiting London for auditions, where he first discovered his love for art and performance. “I was always coming up to London for auditions. There was always an opportunity for discovery,” Tovey says, adding that he saw London as a place where anything could happen as long as he remained open to adventure.
For Leigh-Anne Pinnock, who rose to fame as part of the chart-topping girl group Little Mix, London played a critical role in her success. “London is the place to be for everything,” Pinnock says, reflecting on how she saved money to travel to East London for music production sessions. She shares how moving to the city with her bandmates helped them realize their dreams of stardom. “Being able to be that free in London was just unbelievable,” she says. “It has this overwhelming community feel. People are there for each other.”
The London Eye has been a prominent part of Pinnock’s journey, and she fondly remembers a romantic date on the iconic observation wheel that led to a marriage. “I actually had a date on the Eye. It went pretty well ‘cause we’re married now! You have to do it once in your life!” she jokes.
A Symbol of Unity and Inspiration
The London Eye has also had a significant impact on those beyond the entertainment industry. Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk shares how the city inspired him ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games. “My first time in London was for the Olympic Games in 2012,” Usyk says, recalling how his young daughter motivated him to win gold. “She said, ‘Dad, bring me the gold.’ That really motivated me. Very few people would imagine that we could go this far, but I knew it was possible.”
Julia Barfield, the architect behind the London Eye, also reflects on the importance of the structure, which was designed to celebrate both the new millennium and the spirit of modern London. “It’s incredible to see how the Eye has become a symbol of progress, diversity, and connection,” she says.
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Emmanuel Speaks, the London-based performance poet featured in the film, adds an emotional layer with a powerful spoken word piece that captures the essence of the London Eye as more than just a tourist attraction. His poem pays tribute to the landmark’s ability to offer both a panoramic view of London’s past and a glimpse of its future.
London Eye: A Global Icon
Since its opening in 2000, the London Eye has attracted over 85 million visitors, becoming one of the UK’s most popular tourist attractions. Its breathtaking 360-degree views have made it a central feature of London’s skyline. The London Eye has also played a role in some of the city’s most iconic events, from New Year’s Eve celebrations to royal occasions, such as the Queen’s Jubilee and the Coronation of King Charles III. Additionally, the Eye has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and music videos, cementing its place in pop culture.
The London Eye is not just an architectural feat; it is a part of London’s identity. From its roots as a millennium monument to its current status as a symbol of modernity, the London Eye has been a witness to both personal and historic moments, from first dates to royal celebrations.
Watch the Film Now
To celebrate its milestone anniversary, the London Eye invites everyone to experience Turning 25: London’s Eye. The short film is available for free on YouTube and is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolution of this iconic landmark and the city it represents.
Watch the film here: Turning 25: London’s Eye
For more information about the London Eye, visit londoneye.com.
