London Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of London's most recognized landmarks and one of the most recognized bridges in the world

Striking view of the Tower Bridge at dusk
Striking view of the Tower Bridge at dusk cc licensed photo by James Petts

One of London's most iconic landmarks, Tower Bridge is one attraction you won't want to miss seeing up close. You might also want to check out the Tower Bridge Exhibition where you can learn more about the history of the bridge and enjoy some great views of London from the upper walkways.

London's Tower Bridge was constructed between 1884 and 1892 to fill the need for an additional crossing over the Thames River east of London Bridge. The challenge was to build a bridge without disrupting the river traffic. This resulted in the final design which utilized bascules (counterbalanced spans) between two tall towers that could be raised to allow ships to pass through. The powerful hydraulic system that opens the bridge is located in the base of the towers and can raise the bridge in just one minute. Originally powered by steam, they have been converted to oil and electricity since 1976.

The upper portion of the towers are joined by a unique high level walkway that allowed foot traffic to cross the bridge when the spans where raised. These were closed in 1910 due to lack of use and crime, but reopened in 1982 as part of the Tower Bridge Exhibition. In 2014 glass floors were installed in the walkways enabling visitors to experience a dizzying straight down view as they walk across the bridge.

Tower Bridge is located adjacent to the Tower of London so you may want to combine both into one visit.

The Tower Bridge Exhibition is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm during Summer and from 9:30am to 5pm during Winter except on December 24th to 26th. There is a nominal admission charge to see the inside exhibits.

For more information about Tower Bridge including hours and admission charges for the Tower Bridge Exhibition visit their official website at the link below.



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No - except for the inside exhibits which you can purchase tickets for on the official website.

Tower Bridge Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, UK

Phone: 020 7407 9191

Official Website: Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge Reviews

Rated 4.8 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating Stunning architecture and iconic views. Absolutely breathtaking structure, especially around sunset when the lights come on. It's free to walk across the lower deck, which is a great way to get from the Tower of London side over to the South Bank. If you're lucky, you might even see the bridge lift for a passing boat! A definitive must-see when you're in the city. Tip - if you get chance best time to walk over the bridge is Sunday very early morning it’s normally so quiet no traffic or you will See anyone. So uou can take pics stress free.
Harman Sangha - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating No visit to London is truly complete without witnessing the majesty of Tower Bridge. Often mistaken for London Bridge, this stunning suspension bridge is an engineering masterpiece and a symbol of the city's rich history. Standing on the bridge and looking out over the River Thames, you get some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the London skyline, including the Shard and the Tower of London. During my visit, I was fascinated by the intricate details of the stone towers and the vibrant blue suspension cables. Walking across the bridge gives you a real sense of the city's scale. If you are lucky enough to be there when the bridge lifts for a passing ship, it is a spectacular sight to behold! Traveler Tips for your visit: • Photography: For the best full-scale shot of the bridge, head to St. Katharine Docks or the Potters Fields Park side. • The Glass Floor: If you have time, visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition to walk across the high-level glass walkways for a thrilling view of the road below. • Evening Walk: Try visiting just before sunset; the way the bridge lights up against the night sky is absolutely magical. • Connectivity: It is a short and pleasant walk from either Tower Hill or London Bridge station. Tower Bridge is more than just a crossing; it’s a historic landmark that captures the soul of London. A perfect way to wrap up my 15-day journey through this incredible city! 🌉
Md Abdullah Al Adnan - a month ago

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5 Star Rating We had an amazing time visiting Tower Bridge. It was our second time there, but the first visit for my in-laws and our daughter, which made it even more special. We used our Go City Pass, which made it really convenient. Going up to the glass walkway was such a fun experience, especially for our daughter, and exploring the engine room was fascinating. It’s such an iconic place and definitely worth visiting when in London.
Doreen Fidow - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating Loved the Tower of London - only a brief visit - but seeing it is iconic. We first saw it on our flight into the London and were impressed. The overpass with the clear glass floor is great. Well worth a visit. We did this on the London Pass. The whole experience really only needs 30-45 minutes. Apparently there is a lift but we took the stairs up and down and it was fine. Recommend a visit at least once.
Matt Wilson - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating One of London's most iconic landmarks, Tower Bridge dates back to 1894 and is a favourite tourist spot in close proximity to the Tower of London. Whether you're simply walking past and stopping for a few moments to admire the bridge's standout design, or choose to spend a couple of hours visiting the bridge and exploring its interior, this is a London landmark not to be missed. It's worth seeing at night, when the structure is dramatically illuminated. The full visit provides access to both towers, the high-level walkways and the engine rooms, with displays throughout explaining the bridge's history and features in more detail. A digital audio guide is available for smartphone users by scanning a QR code, useful to get the most from your visit. Highlights included seeing the steam engines that once powered the lifting gear, and the views along the Thames from the walkways. Photo windows in the walkway were a nice touch. Looking down through the glass floor provides a unique perspective. At the time we visited, adult tickets were £16, with reductions for students and seniors. It's not cheap, but the standard of exhibits and the overall quality of the experience made it feel worthwhile. There are toilet facilities inside the bridge, and a gift shop before the exit. If you want to see the bridge lifting, check the official website for times.
Andrew Thomas - 3 weeks ago

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Directions

Tube Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Northern and Jubilee LinesLondon Bridge Station12 MInutes
District and Circle LinesTower Hill Station10 MInutes

How to get to Tower Bridge by Tube

From London Bridge Tube Station on the south bank exit onto Tooley Street and walk to your right (east) to Potters Field Park and then north through the park to the foot of the bridge.

From Tower Hill Station on the north bank exit to the south and follow Tower Hill Terrace east to the Tower Bridge approach.

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