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![]()
We decided on the Tower Bridge tour. Purchased tickets in advance. We walked along the south bank of the Thames from the London Bridge Station which offered scenic views of Tower Bridge. The directions to the entrance are clearly marked, and the queue was relatively quick. We opted to take the elevator up instead of the 206 steps. In doing so, we were told we would forego interesting displays, however. The tour affords great views up and down both sides of the Thames. Also fun were the glass floors that allows views of the traffic below. The tour includes the engine rooms and the gift shop.
Stephanie Davis - 3 weeks ago
If you want the absolute best, most comprehensive view of London, this is it. Perched on top of the tallest building in Western Europe, the 360-degree panorama is simply breathtaking. You get a commanding, bird's-eye perspective of the entire city, with landmarks like Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and St. Paul's Cathedral looking like tiny models below. Crucially, the location right above London Bridge Station means you are perfectly placed to see the winding Thames and all the activity on the river.
The experience is smooth and well-organized, with the high-speed elevator ride being a thrill in itself. The main viewing gallery (Level 69) is superb, but Level 72—the partially open-air deck—is where you really feel the height and the city breeze. On a clear day, the views extend for miles, but even on a slightly cloudy day, the atmosphere is incredible.
Yes, it is a premium-priced attraction, but the staff are friendly, and the lack of overcrowding (due to timed tickets) makes it feel like a truly special visit. You are paying for the view, and it is worth every penny. For a memorable London experience that puts the entire city into perspective, look no further.
Nishad NL - 2 months ago
Tower Bridge is absolutely stunning! One of the best spots to visit in London — the views of the River Thames are amazing. The exhibition is interesting and gives a good idea of how the bridge works. Everything was clean and well-managed. Definitely a must-visit when you’re in London!
Fajar Triandono - a month ago
Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and visiting it was a fantastic experience. The views from the bridge are stunning, both of the Thames and the city. Taking the Tower Bridge Exhibition tour made the visit even better, as it gave detailed insights into how the bridge was built and the fascinating mechanism behind its operation. Walking across the glass floor was a unique highlight too, giving a completely different perspective of the bridge and the river below.
The site is very well maintained and the staff were friendly and helpful. The only thing to keep in mind is that you may need to wait in a queue for entry, and on a sunny day this can feel a bit frustrating. Still, it’s not just a landmark to admire from outside, but also an educational and memorable experience to explore from within. Definitely worth visiting.
stv - 3 months ago
One of the most important attractions in this wonderful city! Especially, if you visit it at night is way more beautiful! This bridge brings its own unique touch of beauty in London! You have to visit it with no hesitation! 🌉✨
Athanasios Sdrakas - a month 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
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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: d26b73 - cc license via Flickr -
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: Stuart Smith. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr

