London Cable Car
A cable car gliding across the Thames between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks — a short, novelty ride with skyline views. Branded the Emirates Air Line at its 2012 launch and the IFS Cloud Cable Car until early 2026, it now runs simply as the London Cable Car.
The call
Worth it for the right traveler.
Why
- 01
It's a fun, cheap five-minute float over the river with surprisingly good views of Canary Wharf and the O2.
Our read - 02
The honest catch: it links two not-very-touristy spots, the ride is over fast, and it's pure novelty rather than a destination — easy to feel it wasn't worth the detour unless you fold it into a Greenwich or O2 plan.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Think twice if
You are watching the budget
On a budget, skip London Cable Car — the spend outweighs the payoff.
You only have one day
London Cable Car is a real time commitment — fit it in only if it's a priority.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, it depends on the day.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, it depends on the day.
Plan it well
- Cost
- ~£6 single
- Timing
- A clear day for the views; combine with a visit to the O2 or Greenwich.
- Booking
- No booking needed; pay with contactless or Oyster on the day.
- Allow
- 30 min
- Accessibility
- Step-free and wheelchair-accessible cabins.
- Getting there
- North Greenwich Tube to the south terminal, or Royal Victoria DLR to the north.