My guest and I travelled to the British Airways London Eye by London Transport, taking bus 211 which conveniently stops on Westminster Bridge, but Waterloo station is also close by.

The efficiency and thorough organisation of our visit was apparent straight away as we were directed away from the queues of tourists to the Fast Track Check-In Desk. I received a well-planned itinerary from corporate sales manager Lisa Hatswell, whose attention to detail was excellent. She liaised with her colleague, hospitality department manager Lucy Waddell, who welcomed us with a warm, friendly smile.

On the summer Saturday evening when we arrived, the atmosphere in the Fast Track area was buzzing, with many parties awaiting their private capsule. Although it was busy, it was not chaotic or overcrowded. The staff were professional and organised, giving information and ensuring the queuing system and security checks moved smoothly. They are well equipped to look after people with special needs, and wheelchair users are assisted on and off the capsules. Everything is carefully monitored by security cameras and private capsule users are given time to assemble and board together safely.

The London Eye is an unusual and unique venue and is situated in a fantastic location with lots to see and do. As well as corporate events, it would be suitable for special occasions and office parties. Capsules can be booked for private use holding a maximum of 25 people, and there is even the option to book the entire wheel!

Lucy explained that when booking champagne and canapés on a private capsule for corporate hospitality, you are entitled to a hostess who will serve you and your guests food and drinks. Our hostess, Silvia, was charming, very attentive and continually smiling. The canapés, prepared by the in-house caterers, were tasty and unusual. Silvia was extremely knowledgeable on the many surrounding sights, giving explanations and pointing out tourist spots – something that would be very useful if your corporate clients were visitors to London. Everyone in the capsule was chattering excitedly as they pointed out places they recognised or asked "what's that building called?" With amazing views over the River Thames it’s also an ideal background for group photos.

There are many modern galleries and restaurants nearby, and a boat trip on the Thames would be a great way to finish off the day after your flight on the Eye. The Eye would be a great corporate hospitality option at any time of the day, but personally I would book a flight for clients followed by lunch or dinner in a nearby restaurant, such as Chez Gerard on the South Bank, where we had a delicious dinner after our flight.

The restaurant is less than five minutes walk away, or you can take a boat trip incorporating lunch or dinner. It is well laid out, with several private dining areas for small groups and facilities to extend the space to accommodate larger corporate parties. Although spacious, there is also a feeling of ‘cosiness’, with tables for two and round tables for four people. In the main part of the restaurant there is space for a long table - ideally suited to a group booking. There are two entrances, one enabling disabled access. The restaurant serves modern French cuisine, with a wide selection of menu choices, either two or three course set menus. It also caters well for vegetarians. There is a long bar for pre or after dinner drinks in a very relaxing atmosphere. Our meal was delicious and well presented, and the staff were friendly and attentive to all requests. Lee and Yassine were particularly helpful on our visit.

After my visit, I would definitely recommend a trip on the London Eye either for an unusual corporate trip or for private use. It’s an enjoyable way to spend an informal, relaxing half hour of your day, and the Fast Track Check-In means that your corporate guests can bypass any queues. As well as entertaining corporate clients, the Eye would also be an excellent venue for a drinks reception or staff party. For personal use it’s an ideal birthday gift or a great way to show visitors the many sights of London. We were told that some couples have even got engaged or married in a capsule! Although it’s open for evening and night flights, I think daylight hours or early evening (especially in summer) is the best time to view the sights.