WINDSOR, England — Two individuals were safely rescued by emergency crews after becoming stranded on a large observation wheel in Windsor’s Alexandra Gardens on Tuesday evening.
The incident occurred shortly after 21:00 BST, just after the wheel — which stands at a towering 33.5 metres (110ft) — had completed what was supposed to be its final ride of the evening.
The attraction, popular among tourists for its panoramic views of Windsor Castle and the River Thames, had come to a halt with the pair stuck in one of its gondolas.
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that it was alerted to the situation just before 22:00. Crews promptly arrived at the scene on Goswell Road and initiated a technical rescue operation that lasted approximately 40 minutes. No injuries were reported.
“We were called to assist with the rescue of two people stuck at height on the observation wheel,” a spokesperson for the fire service said. “Our crews worked swiftly and efficiently to bring the individuals down safely using a turntable ladder and specialist equipment.”
The wheel, which features enclosed gondolas capable of seating up to six passengers, typically takes around 10 minutes to complete one rotation.
It opened to the public in March and has since become a regular fixture of the summer season in Windsor, operating daily with its final ride scheduled at 21:00 each night.
Witnesses said they noticed the wheel had stopped unusually long and that staff appeared to be making efforts to restart the mechanism.
“At first, we thought it was part of the normal end-of-day routine,” said Sarah Elms, a local resident walking through the gardens at the time. “But then we saw emergency vehicles pulling in and realised something wasn’t right.”
It remains unclear what caused the breakdown. The operator of the wheel has yet to issue a public statement but is expected to review the circumstances surrounding the mechanical failure.
Routine maintenance and safety checks are believed to be conducted regularly on the attraction, which is licensed to operate through early September.
Alexandra Gardens, located beside the River Thames and a short walk from Windsor town centre, often draws families and tourists throughout the summer months.
The observation wheel has become one of its main draws since installation, offering a unique elevated view of the historic surroundings.
Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Council said it would be liaising with the ride’s operators to determine whether additional safety checks are needed before the wheel resumes operations.
“The safety of residents and visitors is paramount,” a council spokesperson said. “We’re grateful to the emergency services for their swift response.”
No further incidents have been reported, and it is understood that the attraction will remain temporarily closed while assessments are carried out.
The successful rescue operation is the latest example of the preparedness and capability of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, who routinely train for such high-access rescues. Their rapid response on Tuesday night helped prevent what could have been a far more distressing situation.
An investigation into the malfunction is ongoing.
