We took a memorable ride on Felixstowe’s The View Ferris wheel and this is what we thought

On a hot and humid day, where better to escape for some early evening sea breeze than Felixstowe?

That was the intention as my husband, seven-year-old daughter Clara and I headed down the A14 following a busy day this week.

As well as a refreshing sea breeze, our goal was to eat some chip shop chips on the seafront and take a turn on The View – Felixstowe’s large ferris wheel.

The 34.5 metre wheel was introduced to the seafront for the 2023 season, but we didn’t manage to take a trip last year.

So, when it returned for 2024 – this time as a permanent seasonal feature after it was granted planning permission – it featured high on our to-do list.

And while it might have taken until the summer holidays to find the right time to get there, I’m glad we finally made it.

Being early evening when we arrived, we easily managed to find a parking space in Sea Road, right next to the wheel.

Although a few people were still milling about by the arcades, chip shops or dipping their toes in the sea, the promenade was surprisingly quiet. But that worked in our favour, as it meant there was no need to queue for the wheel.

It costs £6 for adults and £5 for children (a family ticket for two adults and two children is £20).

The wheel features 24 goldolas enclosed with clear perspex, each seating up to six people and offering up fabulous views and a feeling of safety.

The wheel stopped to let off two families and we boarded one of the vacated gondolas. With the door secured by a member of staff, we were soon on the move, gradually moving up and around.

Clara enjoyed spotting the Port of Felixstowe, while my favourite views were those out sea (thanks to clear weather and blue skies).

After one rotation we carried on going for our second turn. The ride was exceptionally smooth and there was no feeling of ‘start-stop’ to let other families off and on, as we were the only riders at the time.

But for this reason, it did feel as though the experience was over rather quickly. In fact, it took only about six minutes start to finish – but they were six memorable minutes.

On reflection, I would have appreciated a short stop at the top to take in some of the stunning views of town, promenade, port and sea, but what I did see will live on in my memories.

After disembarking we took the short walk to Beach Street to use the toilet facilities (as the promenade ones were closed when we arrived) and have a browse for some food and drink.

My husband enjoyed a freshly-made burrito, while Clara and I got our wish of beachfront chippies. And then Clara’s second wish – for a quick turn around the arcade on the 2p machines – was also granted.

I have chalked up our sunset trip to Felixstowe as a success.

The wheel is allowed to open February-October, Monday to Thursday from 10am-9pm, and Friday to Sunday 10am-10pm.