Tower Bridge is one of London’s most famous landmarks, standing tall over the River Thames. Known for its stunning architecture and rich history, the iconic bridge is the brainchild of Sir Horace Jones (the chief architect) and Sir John Wolfe Barry (the chief engineer). Sir William Armstrong’s innovative idea of operating the bascule bridge via steam-powered engines was a masterstroke for this illustrious landmark. The blend of its Neo-Gothic towers with innovative mechanical features makes Tower Bridge a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture lovers, and tourists alike.
Background on the Tower Bridge
The construction of the Tower Bridge began on April 22, 1886, and was inaugurated on June 30, 1894. It was designed to ease traffic congestion in the city, while the moveable bridge allowed ships to cruise through to reach the bustling London docks. It took 8 years to complete, with more than 11,000 tonnes of steel used to create the bridge’s framework. The iconic bridge was formally opened in 1894 by the Prince of Wales, future King Edward VII.
The bridge’s bascule design is one of its defining features, enabling the two sections to lift for easy river traffic flow. Its Neo-Gothic towers were deliberately styled to blend in with the neighbouring Tower of London, creating a perfect harmony between the old and the new.
Initially, its engine room was steam-powered, a marvel of its time. Today, it is operated by high-tech engines, although you can still visit the old engine rooms to get a glimpse into its history.
Where is the Tower Bridge, and how can you get there?
It is located in central London and connects Southwark to the eastern part of the City of London. Various transportation facilities make it easy to access:
- Train stations: Tower Hill, the nearest London Underground station, is within walking distance. The national rail services and the Northern and Jubilee lines also serve the London Bridge station.
- Buses: You may also prefer a bus ride. Board buses 15, 42, 78, 100, and 343 drop you off at Tower Bridge.
- Riverboats: You can arrive by riverboat via the Tower Pier to enjoy the riverside views of London.
- Walking or cycling: On a clear day, you can walk or cycle across the bridge, as many people love to do. You can get spectacular views of the London skyline and the River Thames.
What to expect when you visit the Tower Bridge?
While serving a practical purpose and making way for the mighty lifts, the bascule bridge symbolises the grandeur of London. Many cultural references worldwide exist in photos, films, TV series, and more. Let’s find out more:
North Tower
Learn about the workforce that laid the foundations for the Tower Bridge—the engineers, architects, and technicians. Catch old films that show Victorian London in its full essence and the activities carried out during the construction of the colossal bridge.
The Walkways
From here, you’ll have sweeping views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, Canary Wharfand The Shard. Standing 42 metres above the River Thames, the walkways, with its enigmatic glass floor, let you watch Londoners move about under your feet and, with luck on your side, the bascules rising to let ships pass through.
South Tower
Learn about the maintenance workers for the bridge since its completion in 1894. See the original Tower and Bascule Chamber designs, the staff uniforms, the tools used for bridge construction, maintenance, and more.
The Blue Line
The Blue Line is dedicated to everyone who helped with the bascule bridge construction and operation, be it a watchman, tracer, or stoker. Learn about the unsung heroes from different professions who came together to make the construction of the iconic bridge possible.
Engine Rooms & Shop
Take a look at the well-preserved Victorian-era steam engines in the engine rooms. See the original accumulators, burners, and steam engines that helped elevate the bridge.
Tower Bridge charges an entry fee, with prices varying by age, with special discounts available for children, students, and seniors.
Choose from souvenirs, books, and gifts from the famous Tower Bridge shop, and take a taste of London back home with you.
Be sure to:
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a fair amount.
- Plan your visit to avoid crowds—weekday mornings are ideal.
- Remember to take your camera. The breathtaking views of the Tower of London, the Shard, and the Thames River are unmissable.
- Be careful about what you carry. There is a security check on bags as you arrive. Shoulder bags and backpacks are fine, but oversized items will not be allowed inside.
- Take a walk and explore the surroundings of the Tower Bridge, like Potters Field Park, where you can enjoy a picnic. Walk towards Borough
- Market and sample various drinks and gourmet delights that frequently go viral on Tiktok.
The iconic bridge in London is a favourite of locals and travel buffs worldwide. Visitors flock in huge numbers every day to explore this amazing cultural landmark.
What else can you do when you visit the Tower Bridge?
After exploring the bridge, do not miss the attractions nearby. The Tower of London will catch your eye with its Crown jewels, and its huge amount of British history. But you can also go for a private, professional photoshoot with the colossal bridge as the backdrop.
Who can miss a sightseeing cruise along the Thames? Check out Big Ben and the Tower of London, to name a few. You can also check out one of London’s best tourist hotspots, The Monument to the Great Fire of London.
FAQs
Why was the Tower Bridge built?
The iconic bridge in London was constructed to relieve traffic congestion in East London and allow ships to sail through easily underneath.
Why is the Tower Bridge in London so famous?
Its historical significance, striking architecture, and practical purpose of making the lives of Londoners easy make it popular.
Does the entry at the iconic bridge cost money?
Yes, you must pay a small entry fee to the iconic bridge. The prices of the tickets vary for children and adults.
What is inside the bascule bridge?
You will find exhibitions, the engine rooms, and the famous glass walkway.
Visiting Tower Bridge will leave an impression with its scenic views, engineering marvels, and cultural richness.
With its rich history, this defining landmark draws crowds from London and all over the globe daily. Plan a photoshoot, go sightseeing after visiting the historic bridge, or indulge in a family picnic in the nearby park—the choice is yours!
