London Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of London's most recognized landmarks and one of the most recognized bridges in the world
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 out of 5![]()
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and definitely a must-visit whether you’re a tourist or a local exploring the city. The architecture is stunning, especially when viewed up close — the combination of historic design and modern engineering makes it really impressive. Walking across the bridge gives amazing views of the River Thames, the London skyline, and nearby attractions like the Tower of London.
The area around the bridge is lively and full of energy, with plenty of spots for photos, walking, and enjoying the riverside atmosphere. It looks beautiful during the day, but it’s even more magical at night when the bridge lights up. If you have time, the Tower Bridge Exhibition is worth visiting as it gives interesting history and panoramic views from the glass walkway.
Felsy Fazil - a week ago
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and an absolute must-see. The architecture is stunning, blending historic charm with impressive engineering. Walking across the high-level glass floor offers breathtaking views of the River Thames and the city skyline below. The exhibition inside is informative and engaging, giving great insight into the bridge’s history and how it still operates today. Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or just exploring London, Tower Bridge is a memorable and worthwhile experience.
Anu Mariyam Bibin - 3 weeks ago
Really great experience. I've lived in London all my life and this is only my second time up. Great view and really interesting. Make sure you visit the pump room as that is super fascinating. The machinery is lovingly restored.
Nicholas “Nick” Woodley - a week ago
I visited Tower Bridge and it was an amazing experience. It’s one of London’s most iconic landmarks, and seeing it in person is even more impressive than in pictures. The architecture is stunning, and the views from the upper walkways are absolutely beautiful, especially overlooking the River Thames and the Tower of London.
One of the highlights was walking across the glass floor — it feels a bit scary at first, but it’s such a fun and unique experience. I also really enjoyed learning about the history of the bridge and visiting the engine rooms to see how it works.
I would recommend allowing enough time to explore everything without rushing, and if possible, visit around sunset for incredible photos. Definitely a must-see when in London!
Romina Sandoval - a week ago
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 - a week ago
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Directions
| Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Northern and Jubilee Lines | London Bridge Station | 12 MInutes |
| District and Circle Lines | Tower Hill Station | 10 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.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Tower Bridge:
Photo Gallery
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View of London's famous Tower Bridge framing the 40 storey Gherkin Tower -
Tower Bridge with bascules being raised -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Giuseppe Milo (www.gmilo.com) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Giuseppe Milo (www.gmilo.com) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jesús Quiles - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stuart Smith. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stuart Smith. - cc license via Flickr

