Tower Bridge
A bascule and suspension bridge completed in 1894 in Victorian Gothic style. It is a symbol of London, and visitors can climb to the glass walkway 42 meters up for views over the Thames.
Tower Bridge was completed in 1894. It combines a bascule bridge and a suspension bridge across the Thames. Its two Gothic towers stand about 65 meters tall, and it is often mistaken for London Bridge. The central roadway lifts to let large ships pass several hundred times a year, and the schedule is published on the official website. The paid Tower Bridge Exhibition, about 13 pounds, takes you up to the high-level walkway 42 meters above the river, between the two towers. Through the glass floor you can see the traffic and boats below. The exhibition also includes a visit to the Victorian steam engine rooms beneath the south bridge tower. Good spots for photographing the full bridge include the Tower of London pier, the area in front of City Hall on the South Bank, and beside HMS Belfast. The view is most beautiful after sunset, when the lights come on. The roadway can be walked across for free. Tower Hill Underground station is about a 5-minute walk away, so you can combine your visit with the Tower of London.
Opening hours
Bridge deck open all day; exhibition 09:30–18:00
Nearby sights
- Tower of London
- Sky Garden
- The Shard
- Borough Market
- Tate Modern
- St Paul's Cathedral
- London Eye
- Covent Garden