London: IFS Cloud Cable Car – Glass Floor Experience

If you’re looking to see London from a fresh perspective, the IFS Cloud Cable Car offers a unique way to do so. Floating 90 meters above the River Thames, this cable car provides a thrilling ride with 360° views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a fascinating blend of adventure and sightseeing—especially if you enjoy a bit of adrenaline with your city tour.

What really draws people in are the stunning panoramic vistas and the innovative glass floor that lets you peer directly beneath your feet. We’ve read that the experience can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking, depending on your comfort with heights. While some find it a perfect photo opportunity and a memorable moment, others feel the ride is a bit short for the price. Still, if you’re after a quick, spectacular view of London from above, this could be just the ticket. It’s most suited for those who love extraordinary viewpoints and aren’t fazed by heights.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at $47 per person, it’s not the cheapest experience, but for some, the views and the novelty make it worthwhile. The priority fast-track ticket is a nice touch, helping you skip the queues and save time, which is valuable in a busy city like London. For families or groups wanting a quick thrill and a great Instagram shot, this experience hits many marks. But if you’re expecting a long ride or additional perks, you might find it a little underwhelming.

All in all, the IFS Cloud Cable Car makes for a memorable, visually impressive short trip. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a quick dose of adventure with sightseeing, and for anyone wanting a different angle on London’s skyline. Whether you’re a tourist eager to tick a box or a local looking for a speedy escape above the Thames, this ride has something to offer.

Key Points

• Breathtaking 360° views of London from 90 meters above the Thames.
• Glass floor feature adds a thrilling element, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Quick 30-minute experience—ideal for a short sightseeing break.
• Priority fast-track ticket helps beat the queues and save time.
• Landmarks visible include Canary Wharf, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, The O2, and more.
• Price point of $47 may feel steep for just 10-15 minutes of ride time, depending on your expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect During Your Ride

The experience begins at the Greenwich Peninsula, where you’ll either wait in line or, if you’ve booked the fast-track ticket, skip directly to the boarding area. The ride itself lasts about 15 minutes one way, so the round trip should total around 30 minutes, including boarding and disembarking.

Once aboard, you’ll notice the upgraded cabins with their transparent, glass floors and panoramic windows. This setup offers an exhilarating view beneath your feet—a spectacle for those who crave a bit of adrenaline with their sightseeing.

As the cable car glides over the Thames, you’ll see sights like Canary Wharf’s modern skyscrapers, the historic dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, and the striking silhouette of The Shard. The route stretches between Greenwich Peninsula, home to The O2, and the Royal Docks near ExCeL London, passing directly over the river.

The elevated height—around 90 meters—makes this one of the highest observation points over the Thames. From this vantage point, you get a wide-angle view that you wouldn’t easily find elsewhere in central London. The ride offers a serene yet exciting sensation of floating above the city, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery.

The Experience’s Highlights

• The 360° views are unmissable. From this height, you can spot London’s skyline, the Thames Barrier, Greenwich’s maritime heritage, and Olympic Park.
• The glass floor is both a highlight and a challenge. It adds a thrill factor, especially for those who aren’t afraid of heights, but it might be intimidating for some.
• The separate entrance and fast-track tickets make the experience smoother, especially during busy times.
• The safety briefing pre-ride ensures everyone understands how to enjoy the ride safely, which is reassuring.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes—the ride is short, but you’ll want to be comfortable when walking and standing.
• Avoid see-through clothing if you’re concerned about exposing too much during the ride.
• If you’re sensitive to heights, it’s good to know that some reviews mention that the ride is quick and might feel somewhat rushed.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos—just be mindful of sharp objects or bulky items that might be restricted.
• Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time to attend the safety briefing and avoid rushing.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $47, the price can seem a bit high for a 15-minute ride, especially considering some reviews mention it feels rushed or that they expected more. For the same price, you might find other experiences in London offering longer or more in-depth sightseeing, like river cruises or visits to paid attractions such as the London Eye. However, what makes this experience stand out is its combination of height, views, and the glass floor.

If you’re just looking for a quick, spectacular view and a bit of an adrenaline rush, many find it worth it. For those who want to take their time or get a more comprehensive experience, it might feel a little underwhelming. But it’s definitely a memorable photo op and a fun way to see London from above.

More Great Tours Nearby

User reviews reflect a mixed but generally positive sentiment

One reviewer pointed out that the ride is too quick for the price and suggested that it should include more amenities like photos or a longer stop at the top. Conversely, others praise the stunning scenery and the efficiency of skipping the queues, making it a hassle-free activity.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This ride is best suited for view lovers, thrill-seekers, or anyone wanting a quick yet impressive aerial perspective of London. It’s great if you’re short on time but still want to tick off a memorable experience. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with heights and looking for a fun photo opportunity. If you’re traveling with kids or groups, be aware of the height and the glass floor—it’s not recommended for those afraid of heights or with mobility issues.

Final thoughts

The IFS Cloud Cable Car offers a compact but spectacular way to see London from above. Its main selling points are the breathtaking views and the exciting glass floor—which makes for a memorable photo or a quick adrenaline rush. While the experience itself is brief and the ticket price might seem steep, it offers a unique perspective that complements other sightseeing activities in London.

If you’re after a fast and fun way to get a new view of the city, and don’t mind the short ride, this is a solid choice. For those who want a more leisurely experience or longer viewing time, other options like river cruises or the London Eye might be worth considering.

FAQ

Is the ride suitable for families or children?
The experience is generally accessible, but because of the height and glass floor, it might be intimidating for very young children or those with height fears. Always consider individual comfort levels.

How long does the experience last?
The ride itself takes about 15 minutes each way, totaling roughly 30 minutes including boarding and disembarking.

Can I skip the queue?
Yes, purchasing a priority fast-track ticket allows you to go straight into the cable car without waiting in line.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Avoid see-through clothing if you’re concerned about exposure on the glass floor, and avoid high heels or bulky items that might be restricted.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Standard capacity is six people per cabin, with safety briefings in place. Specific restrictions aren’t detailed, but safety guidelines are provided before boarding.

What landmarks can I see from the cable car?
Expect to see Canary Wharf, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard, The O2, the Thames Barrier, Maritime Greenwich, and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Is this experience worth the cost?
While some might find it a bit pricey for a quick ride, many enjoy the views and the thrill of the glass floor. It’s a good choice if you value unique perspectives over length or additional amenities.

If you’re after a short, scenic, and slightly daring view of London, this cable car might just be your new favorite way to see the city from above. Just remember to brace yourself for the height—and take lots of photos!

You can check availability for your dates here: