Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic symbols of London and a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. Spanning the River Thames near the Tower of London, this remarkable feat of Victorian engineering is both a functional drawbridge and a historical monument, offering panoramic views and a deep dive into London’s past. Whether you're interested in architecture, British history, or simply capturing stunning photos, visiting Tower Bridge should be high on your list of things to see in London.

A Brief History of Tower Bridge
Constructed between 1886 and 1894, Tower Bridge was designed to ease road traffic while still allowing ships to pass into the busy Pool of London docks. The bridge was the brainchild of architect Sir Horace Jones and engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry. Unlike many older bridges in the United Kingdom, Tower Bridge was built with a unique combination of bascule (drawbridge) and suspension elements, setting it apart as a marvel of 19th-century engineering. Its opening was celebrated with great public fanfare, and ever since, it has been a vital part of London’s transport and tourism landscape.

Top Features and Highlights
One of the biggest draws for Tower Bridge tourism is the Tower Bridge Exhibition, where visitors can explore the high-level glass walkways connecting the twin towers. These walkways offer unmatched views of London’s skyline, including the Shard, HMS Belfast, and the Tower of London. Inside the bridge's towers, interactive exhibits reveal how the bridge was constructed and operated, including access to the original Victorian engine rooms with their beautifully restored steam engines. The striking neo-Gothic architecture, with its blue-painted steel framework and stone-clad towers, makes it one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

What Makes Tower Bridge Unique – Fun Facts and Stories
Tower Bridge is not only an architectural icon but also full of fascinating stories. For instance, in 1952, a bus famously jumped across the opening bascules when the bridge started to lift unexpectedly—a dramatic event that only added to its legend. Another fun fact: despite popular belief, Tower Bridge is not London Bridge, which is a more modest structure located nearby. The bridge also has a rich cultural presence, appearing in countless films, books, and media that highlight the charm and grandeur of London.

Visiting Tower Bridge Today – What Tourists Need to Know
Today, Tower Bridge remains an active bascule bridge, still opening for passing ships, and also serves as one of the most visited historical sites in the United Kingdom. Open to visitors daily, it generally welcomes tourists from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry around 5:00 PM. Tickets to the Tower Bridge Exhibition typically cost around £12 for adults and £6 for children, with family and group discounts available. The site is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and multilingual audio guides are offered. For the best experience, visit early in the day or during golden hour to avoid crowds and capture spectacular photos.

Whether you're tracing the footsteps of Victorian engineers, walking across the skybridge with London beneath your feet, or simply admiring the bridge's dramatic silhouette lit up at night, Tower Bridge offers an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in [Tower Bridge] tourism and the best things to do in London.

Tower Bridge

Visit Tower Bridge in London, one of the most iconic historical sites in the UK. Explore its neo-Gothic architecture, walk its high-level glass walkways, and discover stories from its Victorian past. A top attraction for Tower Bridge tourism, this site is a must-see for anyone seeking things to see in London and learning about British engineering heritage.

Brief History: Launched in 1982, this permanent exhibition showcases the history, design, and function of Tower Bridge. It was created to educate the public and enhance tourism.
Notable Features: Includes historical displays, engineering diagrams, models, interactive videos, and access to towers, walkways, and engine rooms. The exhibition covers both the social and technical history of the bridge.
Fun Fact or Unique Angle: The exhibition has received several updates over the years, including multilingual support, augmented reality features, and kid-friendly activities.
Current Use or Visitor Info: Open daily (9:30 AM–6:00 PM), the exhibition takes around 1–1.5 hours to explore. Combo tickets are available, and online booking is recommended during busy seasons.

Tower Bridge Exhibition

Visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition for a full interactive journey through the history and mechanics of London’s most iconic bridge.

Tower Bridge Exhibition

London, United Kingdom

Visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition for a full interactive journey through the history and mechanics of London’s most iconic bridge.

Location