Victorian Engine Rooms

Discover Tower Bridge’s Victorian Engine Rooms—an immersive dive into the mechanical heart of London’s most iconic bridge.

Brief History: These engine rooms powered the original hydraulic bascules that lifted the bridge. Completed in 1894, they used coal-powered steam engines to operate the raising mechanism. Notable Features: Today, the rooms preserve the original coal-fired steam engines, giant accumulators, levers, and beautifully restored brass fittings. Interpretive panels and animations explain how it all worked. Fun Fact or Unique Angle: The engines are a marvel of Victorian engineering and were in full operation until 1976, when they were replaced by an electro-hydraulic system. Current Use or Visitor Info: Visitors can tour the engine rooms with a combo ticket from the Tower Bridge Exhibition. Expect a multisensory experience complete with sounds and smells that recreate the industrial age. Photography is allowed, and the area is semi-accessible.