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. This walkway now provides visitors with some outstanding views of the Thames River and Central London.

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

Official Website: Tower Bridge

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

Closed Now

Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.

  • Monday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm

Category: Landmarks & Historical Buildings Local Flavor

Address: Tower Bridge Road
London SE1 2UP
United Kingdom

Phone: +44 20 7403 3761

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
4.5 out of 5 4.5 Star Rating
Based on 467 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

5 Star Rating Tour is great! Worth the price! Also, they have elevators for handicap. Would recommend to anybody visiting! Read More

Vanessa T. May-11-2023

4 Star Rating This bridge is the iconic of London. It is not quite that big or long but it is beautiful. You can pay to go up there to see the inside of the bridge. I... Read More

Kim T. Nov-28-2022

4 Star Rating Had pre-booked tickets prior to trip for the iconic Tower Bridge online at £11.40 each person, surprisingly probably the cheapest tickets I've bought this... Read More

Andrew C. Nov-27-2022

Accommodations near Tower Bridge:

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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Photo Gallery

Video


A quick video showcasing the Tower Bridge Experience

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