SkyView De Pier

SkyView De Pier is a Ferris wheel on the pier at Scheveningen, the seaside district of The Hague. The wheel is about 50 metres high and stands at the end of the pier, so the capsules rise above the North Sea and give a wide view of the coast. It is one of the most distinctive modern additions to a pier that has been a landmark of the resort for well over a century, and the wheel's lights are visible from the beach at night.

The pier itself has a long history. The first pier at Scheveningen was built at the start of the twentieth century to attract visitors to the resort, and the present structure was rebuilt after the Second World War. Today it carries shops, restaurants and attractions, and the wheel is one of the main reasons people walk out to the end. The base of the wheel sits several metres above the water, which increases the sense of height as you rise.

A ride lasts about a quarter of an hour, with several turns, and the capsules are enclosed, so it can be used in most weather. The best views are on clear days, when you can see the long sweep of beach and the line of dunes behind it, the Kurhaus hotel with its grand dome, the harbour with its cranes and boats, and the skyline of The Hague. On very clear days you can see far along the coast. Many visitors time their ride for sunset, when the sky over the sea turns orange and the beach lights come on.

The wheel sits among other attractions in Scheveningen. Sea Life Scheveningen and the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre are close by for families, while the Kurhaus and its terrace are a short walk along the boulevard. The harbour is known for its fish restaurants, and the Hart beach and the beach clubs offer places to eat and drink. Keizerstraat and the Memorial Needle are other points of interest, and the whole area is easily walked.

SkyView suits families, couples and anyone who enjoys a view. Queues can build on warm weekends and in school holidays, so aim for a weekday or an early slot. Check prices, opening times and any combined tickets on the official website before you go, and wear something windproof, as the pier is exposed. Tickets are normally available at the pier, and Dutch weather is changeable, so check conditions before you go.