London Gondola
London has exactly one gondola lift in public transport — the IFS Cloud Cable Car (formerly Emirates Air Line). A monocable detachable gondola (MDG) system with 36 ten-person cabins, crossing the Thames between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks since 2012.
The one gondola lift
IFS Cloud Cable Car
Greenwich Peninsula (North Greenwich Tube / The O2) ⇄ Royal Docks (Royal Victoria DLR / ExCeL London). 1,100 m, ~5 minutes one-way. Opened 28 June 2012.
Sponsorship: Emirates Air Line (2012–2022) → IFS Cloud (2022–)
"Gondola" in London — disambiguation
FAQs
Are there gondolas in London?
Yes — but only one: the IFS Cloud Cable Car (formerly Emirates Air Line) is a monocable detachable gondola (MDG) system. It is the only aerial gondola lift used as public transport in London, crossing the River Thames between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. There are no Venetian-style passenger gondola boats running as scheduled transport on the Thames.
What is the difference between a cable car and a gondola in London?
In London they are the same vehicle: the IFS Cloud Cable Car uses gondola cabins (10-person enclosed cabins) on a continuous monocable. 'Gondola' refers to the cabin type; 'cable car' is the everyday name TfL uses for the whole system.
Who operates London's gondola lift?
Transport for London (TfL), under the IFS Cloud title sponsorship since October 2022. It opened on 28 June 2012 ahead of the London Olympics as the Emirates Air Line.
How many gondola cabins are there?
36 enclosed gondolas, each carrying up to 10 passengers, with a maximum capacity of 2,500 passengers per hour per direction.
Can I get a romantic Venetian gondola ride in London?
Not as scheduled public transport. Some private operators offer Venetian-style gondola hire on Regent's Canal or for events, but they are not regulated TfL services. For scheduled water transport see the Uber Boat / River Bus and Regent's Canal water bus.