ABOVE THE THAMES WITH FAMILY: MY EXPERIENCE ON THE IFS CLOUD CABLE CAR
By Lokanath Mishra
- Introduction: A Family Journey Above London
London offers many ways to cross the River Thames. We chose the one that lets you soar above it.
Last Sunday, my wife, my brother-in-law and his wife, my daughter and her little daughter, and I decided to experience the IFS Cloud Cable Car. What was intended to be a simple journey between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks turned into one of the most memorable moments of our visit to London.
The ride lasted only ten minutes, yet it offered unforgettable views, shared laughter, and precious family memories that will remain with us for years to come.
- The Route: Linking Two Iconic Destinations
The IFS Cloud Cable Car glides gracefully across the River Thames, connecting two important destinations in East London:
- Greenwich Peninsula Terminal – located beside the famous O2 Arena, a vibrant centre for concerts, entertainment, and leisure.
- Royal Docks Terminal – situated near ExCeL London and London City Airport, an important hub for exhibitions and business events.
A standard one-way ticket costs £6.00 when paid with a contactless bank card or an Oyster card. Tickets may also be purchased online in advance. We bought ours at the Greenwich Peninsula Terminal, and within a few minutes we were ready to board.
- Our Experience: Ten Minutes of Wonder
Our family of six comfortably settled into the spacious glass cabin. Surrounded by transparent windows, we enjoyed uninterrupted panoramic views in every direction. The cabin was clean, spacious, and fully accessible, making the journey effortless even with a young child.
As the doors gently closed and the cabin began its ascent, my little granddaughter pressed her face against the glass in excitement. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as London slowly unfolded beneath us.
The first breathtaking sight was the magnificent dome of The O2 Arena gradually shrinking below us. Soon afterwards, the broad waters of the River Thames stretched magnificently in every direction.
Floating nearly 90 metres above the river, we enjoyed spectacular views that few visitors experience.
To the west stood the gleaming skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, while the distant dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral could just be seen on the skyline.
To the east lay the runways of London City Airport alongside the historic Royal Docks.
Far below us, boats carved gentle white trails across the Thames. In the distance stood the remarkable Thames Barrier, while beyond it the green landscape of Greenwich Park added a refreshing contrast to London’s urban skyline.
My brother-in-law, who had worked in electrical engineering, was fascinated by the impressive cable system and the three towering support structures that carried the entire network across the river. He admired both the engineering precision and the elegant simplicity of the design.
Meanwhile, my wife and my sister-in-law enthusiastically captured photographs from every angle. My daughter gently held her little daughter’s hand as we reached the highest point above the Thames.
Inside the cabin there was a peaceful silence. There were no traffic jams, no crowded streets, and no city noise—only the smooth, almost effortless glide through the sky accompanied by magnificent panoramic views of London.
For those ten minutes, the journey felt less like public transport and more like a private aerial sightseeing tour.
- Practical Information: Affordable and Family-Friendly
Operated by Transport for London, the IFS Cloud Cable Car is fully integrated with the city’s transport network and accepts Oyster cards as well as contactless payment.
At only £6.00 for a one-way journey, it provides one of London’s best-value sightseeing experiences. While it cannot replace a helicopter flight, it offers a remarkably similar aerial perspective at a fraction of the cost.
Both terminals are completely step-free and accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and families with young children. The staff were friendly, efficient, and helpful throughout our visit, making the boarding process smooth and comfortable.
For visitors travelling with family, it is an attraction that successfully combines transportation, sightseeing, and relaxation.
- Conclusion: More Than Just a Ride
The IFS Cloud Cable Car is often described simply as another part of London’s public transport system. For us, however, it became something far more meaningful.
It was six members of one family, representing three generations, sharing ten unforgettable minutes high above the River Thames.
It was my granddaughter’s first experience of “flying” over a river, her excitement reminding us that the greatest joys often come from the simplest adventures.
Most importantly, it allowed us to see London from a completely different perspective—not from its busy streets, crowded bridges, or underground tunnels, but peacefully from the sky.
In a city famous for its bridges, boats, and historic landmarks, this aerial crossing occupies a unique place. It connects not only Greenwich Peninsula with the Royal Docks but also creates lasting memories for everyone fortunate enough to experience it.
If you are visiting London with your family, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the IFS Cloud Cable Car. The £6.00 ticket buys far more than a short journey across the Thames—it offers a memorable experience, spectacular views, and treasured family moments that will remain long after you have returned to the ground.