Tower Bridge
Discover Tower Bridge in London. Dive into its architectural marvel, walk its glass-floored walkways, and enjoy panoramic views. Experience an iconic landmark.
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Visitor's guide
Must-see highlights & key info
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Explore London's iconic Tower Bridge and Engine Room at your own pace, to get first-hand knowledge about this structural marvel.
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Walk on Tower Bridge's 42-meter-high glass floor to look over the Thames, and see the tallest building in the UK - the 72-storeyed Shard or the high-rise financial center Canary Wharf.
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Go on to the ingenious mechanics that power Tower Bridge's bascules in the historic Engine Rooms and discover how the bridge works and the people who worked there.
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Did you know that more than 80 people were needed to maintain the engines and raise the Bridge?
More details
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Explore London's iconic Tower Bridge and Engine Room at your own pace, to get first-hand knowledge about this structural marvel.
-
Walk on Tower Bridge's 42-meter-high glass floor to look over the Thames, and see the tallest building in the UK - the 72-storeyed Shard or the high-rise financial center Canary Wharf.
-
Go on to the ingenious mechanics that power Tower Bridge's bascules in the historic Engine Rooms and discover how the bridge works and the people who worked there.
-
Did you know that more than 80 people were needed to maintain the engines and raise the Bridge?
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Step back in time and stroll across the iconic Tower Bridge, one of the most symbolic landmarks of London, that is as captivating as it is historic.
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Walk on the glass floor of Tower Bridge to see the city's panoramic views and River Thames, and then move to the Engine Rooms to explore engineering at its best.
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The London Eye, Europe's tallest Ferris wheel is a high-tech glass capsule that can accommodate 25 people per capsule and a total of 800 in the entire wheel.
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This 30-min ride tells you about its history in its 4D interactive experience and shows you London's top sights like Buckingham Palace, House of Parliament, and others.
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Fun fact: The largest Lego structure emulates the Tower Bridge and measures 13 meters high.
More details
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Step back in time and stroll across the iconic Tower Bridge, one of the most symbolic landmarks of London, that is as captivating as it is historic.
-
Walk on the glass floor of Tower Bridge to see the city's panoramic views and River Thames, and then move to the Engine Rooms to explore engineering at its best.
-
The London Eye, Europe's tallest Ferris wheel is a high-tech glass capsule that can accommodate 25 people per capsule and a total of 800 in the entire wheel.
-
This 30-min ride tells you about its history in its 4D interactive experience and shows you London's top sights like Buckingham Palace, House of Parliament, and others.
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Fun fact: The largest Lego structure emulates the Tower Bridge and measures 13 meters high.
5% off
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See the 1000-year-old Tower of London, before strolling along the glass walkway of Tower Bridge, with views of London 42 meters above the Thames.
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With the Crown Jewels at the White Tower and the Victorian Engine Rooms at the Tower Bridge, there’s no dearth of things to see with this combo ticket.
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Get a crash course on London’s history through the Torture at the Tower exhibition, and the exhibition at the Tower Bridge’s North Tower.
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Just a 6-minute walk away from each other, you can plan a history-filled day without the hassle of figuring out transportation.
More details
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See the 1000-year-old Tower of London, before strolling along the glass walkway of Tower Bridge, with views of London 42 meters above the Thames.
-
With the Crown Jewels at the White Tower and the Victorian Engine Rooms at the Tower Bridge, there’s no dearth of things to see with this combo ticket.
-
Get a crash course on London’s history through the Torture at the Tower exhibition, and the exhibition at the Tower Bridge’s North Tower.
-
Just a 6-minute walk away from each other, you can plan a history-filled day without the hassle of figuring out transportation.
5% off
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Discover two iconic London landmarks with one combo ticket—save 10% while exploring historic Tower Bridge and soaring views from the Shard.
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Walk across Tower Bridge’s 42-meter-high glass walkway and see the Thames beneath your feet for a thrilling view of London’s skyline.
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Step into the Victorian Engine Room to explore the original steam machinery and uncover 135 years of groundbreaking bridge engineering.
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Ride high-speed lifts to The Shard’s Level 72 open-air Skydeck and soak in panoramic 360° views from one of the tallest viewing points in London.
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Enjoy indoor galleries on Levels 68 and 69 of The Shard, offering a comfortable spot to take in the city’s landmarks from above.
More details
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Discover two iconic London landmarks with one combo ticket—save 10% while exploring historic Tower Bridge and soaring views from the Shard.
-
Walk across Tower Bridge’s 42-meter-high glass walkway and see the Thames beneath your feet for a thrilling view of London’s skyline.
-
Step into the Victorian Engine Room to explore the original steam machinery and uncover 135 years of groundbreaking bridge engineering.
-
Ride high-speed lifts to The Shard’s Level 72 open-air Skydeck and soak in panoramic 360° views from one of the tallest viewing points in London.
-
Enjoy indoor galleries on Levels 68 and 69 of The Shard, offering a comfortable spot to take in the city’s landmarks from above.
5% off
- Ascend to the heights of London's iconic Tower Bridge before setting sail on a leisurely Thames River cruise with this combo.
- Explore the Tower Bridge’s majestic towers and walk past the Blue Line, and marvel at the London skyline from the water on your cruise.
- Spot attractions like the Tower of London, the Shard, and Shakespeare’s Globe from both the Tower Bridge and the cruise for unique views.
- Hop aboard from Westminster, London Eye, or Greenwich Piers to get to the Tower Bridge, or choose to board your cruise from Tower Pier after you explore the bridge.
- Listen to engaging live or recorded commentary on iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, and even the Tower Bridge, on your cruise.
More details
- Ascend to the heights of London's iconic Tower Bridge before setting sail on a leisurely Thames River cruise with this combo.
- Explore the Tower Bridge’s majestic towers and walk past the Blue Line, and marvel at the London skyline from the water on your cruise.
- Spot attractions like the Tower of London, the Shard, and Shakespeare’s Globe from both the Tower Bridge and the cruise for unique views.
- Hop aboard from Westminster, London Eye, or Greenwich Piers to get to the Tower Bridge, or choose to board your cruise from Tower Pier after you explore the bridge.
- Listen to engaging live or recorded commentary on iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, and even the Tower Bridge, on your cruise.
5% off
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Discover the prime sights of London on a 3-hour small-group guided walking tour of Westminster, with entry to Tower Bridge, for a wholesome experience.
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With an enthusiastic local guide learn all about landmarks like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Nelsons Column, White Hall, and others.
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Catch the Changing of the Guard, see the famous Trafalgar Square, and the Admiralty Arch, or simply stroll through St. James Park for some quiet time.
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Head to your next pitstop Tower Bridge, and get access to all interactive displays as well as Victorian Engine Rooms while being on the thrilling 42-metre-high glass walkway.
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Did you know that over 3,300 notable individuals are buried or commemorated at Westminster Abbey, including 17 monarchs?
More details
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Discover the prime sights of London on a 3-hour small-group guided walking tour of Westminster, with entry to Tower Bridge, for a wholesome experience.
-
With an enthusiastic local guide learn all about landmarks like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Nelsons Column, White Hall, and others.
-
Catch the Changing of the Guard, see the famous Trafalgar Square, and the Admiralty Arch, or simply stroll through St. James Park for some quiet time.
-
Head to your next pitstop Tower Bridge, and get access to all interactive displays as well as Victorian Engine Rooms while being on the thrilling 42-metre-high glass walkway.
-
Did you know that over 3,300 notable individuals are buried or commemorated at Westminster Abbey, including 17 monarchs?
- Get ready for an amazing London adventure with the London Explorer Pass which covers 90+ attractions, tours, and experiences with maximum savings.
- Unlock up to 50% savings on admission tickets for iconic attractions such as The Tower of London, Up At The O2, and Tower Bridge.
- Explore the best of London including Kew Gardens, Westminster Abbey, and other prime attractions.
- Enjoy the flexibility of picking from different passes offering entry to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 attractions in London, with a validity of 30 days from first use.
More details
- Get ready for an amazing London adventure with the London Explorer Pass which covers 90+ attractions, tours, and experiences with maximum savings.
- Unlock up to 50% savings on admission tickets for iconic attractions such as The Tower of London, Up At The O2, and Tower Bridge.
- Explore the best of London including Kew Gardens, Westminster Abbey, and other prime attractions.
- Enjoy the flexibility of picking from different passes offering entry to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 attractions in London, with a validity of 30 days from first use.
- Enjoy a hassle-free sightseeing experience in London with exclusive access to 90+ attractions scattered across the city.
- The London Pass® makes visiting top attractions like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace and more super easy, saving you up to 55%.
- Level up your experience with the London Pass Plus and access 4 additional sights like Madame Tussauds and the London Eye, for the ultimate London experience.
- Pick from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 10-day London passes depending on your itinerary and enjoy 1 year validity from the date of purchase.
- Just scan your London pass at the first attraction, and it's activated and you can then redeem your credits over the number of calendar days purchased.
More details
- Enjoy a hassle-free sightseeing experience in London with exclusive access to 90+ attractions scattered across the city.
- The London Pass® makes visiting top attractions like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace and more super easy, saving you up to 55%.
- Level up your experience with the London Pass Plus and access 4 additional sights like Madame Tussauds and the London Eye, for the ultimate London experience.
- Pick from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 10-day London passes depending on your itinerary and enjoy 1 year validity from the date of purchase.
- Just scan your London pass at the first attraction, and it's activated and you can then redeem your credits over the number of calendar days purchased.
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Similar things to do in London
About Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is a Grade I listed combined bascule (A bascule bridge is a type of bridge that lifts up like a seesaw to let boats go through) and suspension bridge in London. Designed by Horace Jones and engineered by John Wolfe Barry, it opened in 1894 to enhance access to London's East End. With its 800-foot length and 65-meter towers, it's a London landmark. Originally steam-powered, it now operates electrically but retains its historic mechanisms for display. Discover its history at the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which includes high-level walkways, Victorian engine rooms, and insights into its original steam-powered operation.
Despite its medieval appearance, Tower Bridge is relatively young, opening in 1894, contrasting with the Tower of London's 11th-century origins. Tower Bridge has a castle-like appearance, its Neo-Gothic style was intentionally chosen to complement the nearby White Tower.
Following a public competition where over 50 designs were submitted, architect Sir Horace Jones and civil engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry collaborated on Tower Bridge's design. Initially rejected, their adapted proposal was approved by Parliament in November 1884. Tragically, Jones passed away a year into construction, never witnessing the bridge's completion.
Tower Bridge took eight years to build and over £1 million to complete, showcasing immense skill and dedication. Divers worked in the River Thames bed, while riveter squads inserted over 13 million rivets into the steel, contributing to the bridge's construction.
Tower Bridge was originally painted in Queen Victoria's rumored favorite color, 'bright chocolate' brown. This color scheme remained until it was camouflaged in battleship grey during World War II. In 1977, the bridge was repainted in the red, white, and blue colors still visible today, commemorating Her Late Majesty The Queen’s Silver Jubilee.
Tower Bridge initially operated on steam power till 1976, boasting the most sophisticated bascule bridge design of its time. While the bascules continue to be powered hydraulically today, they now rely on oil and electricity instead of steam. Visitors can view the original pumping engines, accumulators, and boilers on display in the Engine Rooms.
Why visit Tower Bridge?
Highlights
Walkways
Perched 42 meters above the River Thames, Tower Bridge's high-level walkways provide a breathtaking perspective of London's skyline. Designed by Sir Horace Jones and Sir John Wolfe Barry, these walkways offer captivating views of landmarks like Canary Wharf and the Tower of London. Be sure to explore both the East and West walkways to read about the fascinating history and construction of Tower Bridge.
Glass floor
Each glass floor spans 11.5 meters long and 1.8 meters wide, situated 42 meters above the River Thames and 33.5 meters above road level. Comprising six panels weighing 530 kilograms each and 70mm thick, these glass floors were installed in 2014. With a capacity to withstand the weight of four London black cabs or six elephants, these glass floors offer an unforgettable experience for Tower Bridge visitors.
Engine rooms
Discover Tower Bridge's engine rooms located beneath the southern approach, home to the historic steam engines that once operated the bridge lifts. Learn about the intricate workings of the Bascule Bridge through interactive displays. Read all about the stories of the Victorian-era technology and the dedicated workforce behind its operation. Remember to keep your ticket ready as staff will need to check it before entry to the engine rooms.
Plan your visit
Ticket Office Entrance (North Tower)
You can enter Tower Bridge through the Ticket Office on the west side of the North Tower. From there, you can take stairs or a lift to the high-level Walkways, which stretch to the South Tower. In the Towers and Walkways, you'll find information about the Bridge's history and enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Tower of London, and the River Thames.
Engine Rooms Entrance (South Tower)
The Victorian Engine Rooms are located in a separate building under the southern part of the Bridge. You can reach them easily from Tower Hill station, Tower Bridge City Hall bus stop, London Bridge station, and Tooley Street bus stop. There's also an external lift on the southeast side of the Bridge to take you from bridge level to the Thames footpath level, where the Engine Rooms entrance and Tower Bridge Gift Shop are located.
On the second Saturday of every month, from 9:30am to 11:30am, entry to Tower Bridge is reserved exclusively for Relaxed Opening attendees.
Explore a range of souvenirs and gifts at the on-site gift shop.
Stay connected during your visit with free WiFi.
Accessible toilets available for wheelchair users.
Public car park available within two hundred meters of the main entrance.
Two quiet rooms in the South Tower serve as a nursing room and a prayer room.
Two quiet rooms in the South Tower serve as a nursing room and a prayer room.
Wheelchairs available free of charge.
There are wheelchair-friendly routes throughout the building.
Assistance dogs and pets are welcome.
Assistance dogs and pets are welcome.
All routes suitable for pushchairs or prams.
Convenient lifts provide access to different levels of the building.
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