DESTINATIONS

From a simple fairground ride to an icon of the modern urban metropolis, the big wheel has come a long way. George Washington Gale Ferris, Jr, spun the first ever wheel in Chicago in 1893 in response to Gustave Eiffel’s tower. Since the huge success of the London Eye (carrying around 3.5m passengers each year), it has become a symbol of urban regeneration. Berlin, Dubai and Beijing are all planning to open their own version later this year, with Beijing’s promising to be the highest and largest in the world. Here’s the best of the most recent openings around the world to explore.

Japan
The Tokachidake Atobyu (seejapan.co.uk) is a 50m-high wheel in Hokkaido, northern Japan, with stunning views of Tokachi-dake mountain. The area is a popular hiking destination, so designers had to ensure the wheel blends into the natural environment.

Singapore
Currently the world’s biggest wheel at 165m, the Singapore Flyer (singaporeflyer.com) has views across to Sentosa Island. Located in the city-state’s Marina Bay, the air-conditioned and UV-light protected capsules can carry up to 28 passengers each.

Sheffield
The Wheel of Sheffield (yorkshiresouth.com), the latest UK opening, is a 60m-high wheel with spectacular views across to the Peak District. The 13-minute ride in one of the 42 climate-controlled capsules lasts 13 minutes and includes a commentary to point out local landmarks and places of interest. Try a ride in the VIP Capsule with its DVD player, glass floor and Champagne, for £70.

Copenhagen
The Wheel of Copenhagen (visitcopenhagen.com), located in front of the Danish capital’s landmark Tivoli Gardens, is the first big wheel to open in Scandinavia. It is currently on loan from the Place de la Concorde in Paris, but the local authorities hope to make the 50m-high wheel a permanent feature on the design-conscious cityscape. 

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