Tower Bridge

This moving bridge is one of London’s icons—a place you must see while visiting the capital!

More than a hundred years old, it was constructed at the end of the 19th century. As industry in the city developed, it needed more connections across the River Thames. However, a static bridge would limit cargo ships sailing on the river. That’s why Sir Horace Jones, together with engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry, designed a bridge that not only allowed vehicle traffic across the bridge, but that could open to allow large ships to pass along the river—called a bascule suspension bridge. Its total length is 800 ft (244 m) and each of the two towers is 123 ft (65 m) tall. Tower Bridge is often mistakenly referred to as London Bridge, which is actually one bridge upstream. The lifting system works hydraulically. In the past, it used to be powered by steam engines, which were replaced by electricity recently. The original color of the bridge was greyish until 1977, when it was painted red, white, and blue for Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee.

Many pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles cross the bridge daily and it lifts 2–3 times a day. The Tower Bridge Exhibition is held on the upper walkways. Though the exhibitions come and go, the stunning panoramic views of London are there to stay—St Paul’s Cathedral, the Monument, and all the way to Canary Wharf! But don’t forget to check out the old steam mechanism that used to be used for lifting the bridge.

When visiting Tower Bridge, note that the main entrance is in the North West Tower. The nearest underground stations are Tower Hill and London Bridge. Railway stations London Bridge, Fenchurch Street and Tower Gateway aren’t far. Tickets need to be bought to see the exhibition and are available online should you wish to avoid the lines. But if visiting in a group or as a family, you have to purchase your tickets on site.

And remember, the exhibition is over 137 ft (42 m) above the river; some people may not enjoy the height.

Opening Hours

April - September: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
October - March: 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

The bridge lift times can be found on the official website.

Admission

Adult: £8.00
Child (aged 5-15): £3.40
Over 60/Student: £5.60

Contact

Email: enquiries@towerbridge.org.uk
Phone: +44 20 7403 3761

• Official website of the Tower Bridge

• Tower Bridge at Wikipedia