London: IFS Cloud Cable Car

If you’re curious about seeing London from a different perspective, the IFS Cloud Cable Car offers a surprisingly fun way to get aerial views of the city’s iconic skyline. It’s not a big adrenaline rush, but for a quick, scenic trip above the Thames, it can be a memorable highlight of your visit. We’ve looked into what you can expect, and honestly, it’s worth considering whether this short ride fits into your London plans.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the spectacular views of London from above and its convenient location near popular attractions like The O2 and ExCeL Centre. Plus, the easy online booking and options to skip queues make it accessible for busy days. That said, an important point to keep in mind is the weather dependency — wind, rain, or low clouds can really affect how much you’ll enjoy the views.

For travelers who love to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun, or families looking for an easy, quick activity with great photo opportunities, this cable car is a decent choice. But if you’re expecting an in-depth experience or a long adventure, you might find it a bit fleeting. Overall, it suits those wanting a brief, scenic escape above London’s busy streets, especially if you plan to stay nearby.

Key Points

• Unique aerial views of London’s skyline, Thames, Greenwich, and Canary Wharf
• Affordable price point around $17.50 per ticket makes it good value for a quick trip
• Convenient location close to The O2 and ExCeL Centre, ideal for combining with other sightseeing
• Easy booking options including fast-track to skip queues, especially helpful during busy times
• Weather impacts: wind or rain can limit the experience, especially in the evening or colder months
• Family friendly, with accessible facilities and options for children, plus a cultural experience at the Cable Car site

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the London IFS Cloud Cable Car Experience?

The London IFS Cloud Cable Car is a modern urban cable car system that crosses the Thames, connecting Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks. It’s the UK’s first and only city-based cable car and offers a different way to see the city from above. The journey lasts about 10 minutes each way, providing a quick but memorable way to take in many of London’s landmarks.

What sets this apart from other attractions like the London Eye or Shard is its location-based appeal and the fact that it’s integrated into the city’s transport network. You can hop on the cable car, enjoy the views, and continue your exploration of Greenwich or East London afterward.

From the cabins, you’ll get a panoramic view of London’s skyline, the River Thames, and key areas like Canary Wharf, The O2, and the Royal Docks. It’s especially popular during sunset or at night, when the city lights up and the night flights extend the experience past 7 pm.

The Route and Its Highlights

The main route takes you over the Thames, with a crossing between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. This crossing is around 90 meters above the river, giving you enough height to see the city in a new light without feeling overwhelmed.

Many reviews rave about the spectacular scenery — one traveler described it as “the scene was absolutely beautiful,” and others appreciated the 360-degree views. The sightlines towards Canary Wharf and the O2 are particularly eye-catching, especially in good weather.

A notable feature is the London Cable Car Experience museum area, where you can learn about the cable car’s history. It’s a small, family-friendly spot with photo opportunities and a workshop to build your own teddy, making it a nice stop if you’re traveling with kids or simply interested in the system’s background.

Booking and Ticket Options

Tickets are reasonably priced, around $17.50 per person, which is quite an affordable way to add a scenic touch to your itinerary. You can choose a single or round-trip ticket, with the latter providing the full, circular experience. For those pressed for time or visiting during peak hours, the fast-track upgrade allows you to skip queues, a definite benefit during busy weekend or holiday periods.

Tickets are valid for one day, so you don’t need to worry about rushing your ride. Just be aware that the experience is weather-dependent, with the cable car sometimes closing during thunderstorms, high winds, or lightning threats.

The Experience on Board

Once on the cable car, expect a comfortable ride with panoramic windows. As noted in reviews, the journey is quite quick, usually around 10 minutes each way, but many find that the short duration is enough for a snapshot of London’s skyline.

Several travelers have highlighted the smoothness of the ride and the friendly staff, who are there to help if you’re unsure where to look or need assistance. For families, accessible toilets and wheelchair-friendly cabins make the experience more inclusive.

A common comment from visitors is how easy it is to hop on and off, especially since the system manages queues well, except during peak times like New Year’s Eve, when waiting in the wind can be quite a test. One review mentioned that staff chatted with visitors at the gate and didn’t check tickets at one point, so it’s worth arriving early or booking in advance.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Best Time to Visit

The views are best appreciated during clear weather, particularly on sunny days or at sunset. The extended night flights after 7 pm are especially popular, offering a different perspective of the city lights twinkling below.

If you’re planning to do this in the evening, be prepared for darker, windier conditions, which some reviews say can make the experience less comfortable if it’s very cold or windy. Early mornings or midday trips tend to be more predictable weather-wise, but the city’s lights at night can be magical if the weather cooperates.

The Practical Side: Tips and Considerations

• Book online in advance to avoid long queues — especially helpful during busy periods or weekends.
• Check the weather forecast before heading out, as the experience can be canceled during thunderstorms or high winds.
• The ticket validity is limited to open hours, so plan accordingly.
• During busy times, shared cabins might be common, but many visitors report riding comfortably with no crowding.
• If you want to avoid waiting, consider the fast-track option when booking.
• Remember that security restrictions include no smoking on the cable car.
• The ride may vary in duration slightly depending on passenger flow and weather, so don’t expect it to be a long, extended journey.

User Experiences: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews are generally positive, giving this experience a solid 4.4 out of 5 from over 1,700 reviews. Visitors love the spectacular views and the value for money, with some calling it “the perfect activity to do with kids” because of how much fun they have and the great photo ops.

One traveler noted, “We had a beautiful clear day to experience the IFS Cable Car…great views in all directions,” highlighting how weather really influences the experience. Conversely, some mention that the ride is quite short — a common sentiment is that 10 minutes goes by quickly, but the views make it worthwhile.

A few reviews mention minor frustrations, like paying for a return trip only to find staff chatting at the gate or having to wait in wind during peak times. But overall, the consensus is that it’s an enjoyable, hassle-free way to see London from above.

This cable car ride is ideal for those seeking quick, scenic views without the need for a long tour or high-cost attraction. It’s especially suited for visitors in the Greenwich or Docklands area who want a different photo opportunity or an easy, family-friendly activity. Its accessibility and affordability make it a good choice for travelers on a budget or with limited time.

If you enjoy stunning skyline panoramas and don’t mind weather-dependent activities, this is a solid addition to your London itinerary. However, if you’re looking for an in-depth experience or a longer adventure, you might prefer other attractions like the London Eye or The Shard.

The IFS Cloud Cable Car offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see London from above. With its spectacular views, affordability, and convenient location, it appeals especially to those who want a quick scenic escape without much fuss. The opportunity to see London’s skyline illuminated at night adds a special touch, making it a memorable part of your trip.

While it’s not a long or deeply narrated experience, it’s perfect for photo enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a brief aerial adventure. Just keep an eye on the weather and consider booking fast-track tickets if you’re visiting during busy periods. For a relatively budget-friendly way to gain a new perspective on the city, the cable car does deliver.

If you’re after breathtaking vistas with minimal effort, this ride is worth putting on your list. Just be prepared for the short duration and variable weather. Overall, it’s a fun, easy addition to your London sightseeing lineup that shows the city in a new light.

How long does the ride take?
The journey is about 10 minutes each way, so a round trip can take around 20 minutes, depending on wait times and boarding.

Can I buy tickets at the site?
Yes, tickets are available on-site, but booking online in advance can help you skip queues and choose your preferred time slot.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly, with accessible facilities and a fun way for kids to see London from above.

What if the weather is bad?
The cable car may temporarily close during thunderstorms, high winds, or lightning threats. Always check current conditions before your visit.

Are there options to skip queues?
Yes, fast-track tickets are available at checkout, allowing you to avoid long lines during busy periods.

Can I enjoy the views at night?
Absolutely; the extended night flights after 7 pm provide a beautiful view of London’s illuminated skyline.

Is there a guide or commentary during the ride?
No, it’s a self-guided experience with just the scenic views. The nearby Cable Car Experience offers some additional info about the system’s history if you’re interested.

In the end, the London IFS Cloud Cable Car is a smart choice for a quick, scenic break above the city, especially if you want good views without a lengthy commitment. It’s simple, affordable, and offers some of the best vantage points of London’s familiar sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: