North Greenwich is no longer just the location of the O2 Arena. It is a real live public park, thanks to the cable car known as Emirates Air Line. This weekend the crowds of families waiting for a cable car ride across the Thames were intimidating.
But here is my hint: board on the other side at the ExCel Centre (near Royal Victoria DLR station), because no one is lining up on that side. This side of the river, in Newham, is also set to become an area of great family amusement with water sports attractions right by the ExCel Center and new projects including the London Pleasure Garden (about 1 mile from the cable car stop).
An other hint: avoid the ticket cue by paying with your Oyster card, it costs £3.20 for the one-way ride. Kids over 5 also need to pay. The £1.60 listed price is impossible unless you have already ordered your children Oyster photocards -- hardly worth the £10 administration charge for most kids. Technically it is cheaper to wait in line for a £2.20 paper ticket, but if you are in hurry, you can buy adult Oyster cards from the tube station for the kids as well. Details about the fares listed here: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tickets/23851.aspx
This is a surprisingly efficient form on transportation rather than a funride, and is quicker and less wobbly than the DLR you will probably board to get back. Still, it is a bargain compared to the London Eye and you get some great views of east London, so snap those photos quickly!
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