Tower Bridge is more than just a crossing; it is a world-famous symbol of London. This combined bascule and suspension bridge, built between 1886 and 1894, is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering. With its iconic twin towers and majestic suspension spans, it has witnessed the transformation of London from an industrial powerhouse into a modern global city.
A History of Innovation
In the late 19th century, the rapid growth of London's East End meant that a new river crossing east of London Bridge was desperately needed. However, a traditional fixed bridge was impossible because it would block access for the tall-masted ships reaching the port facilities between the Bridge and the Tower of London.
A Special Bridge or Subway Committee was formed in 1876 to find a solution. After years of deliberation and over 50 designs submitted, the design by Horace Jones, the City Architect, in collaboration with John Wolfe Barry, was chosen. The result was a "bascule bridge"—from the French for "see-saw"—which could raise its central spans to allow ships to pass.
Construction began in 1886 and took eight years, involving five major contractors and 432 construction workers. Two massive piers, containing over 70,000 tons of concrete, were sunk into the riverbed to support the structure. The bridge was officially opened on June 30, 1894, by the Prince of Wales (the future King Edward VII) and his wife, the Princess of Wales.
The High-Level Walkways and Glass Floor
One of the most thrilling parts of visiting Tower Bridge is exploring the high-level walkways that connect the two towers. Originally designed to allow pedestrians to cross even when the bridge was raised, they were closed in 1910 due to lack of use and a reputation for attracting the "wrong sort."
Today, they have been beautifully restored and offer some of the most spectacular panoramas in London. From 42 meters (138 feet) above the river, vous can see the Shard, the Tower of London, and the City's skyscrapers stretching out before vous.
In 2014, the bridge added a Glass Floor to both walkways. Measuring 11 meters long and 1.8 meters wide, it allows vous to look directly down at the road and river below. Watching the iconic red double-decker buses and river boats pass beneath your feet is a spine-tingling experience that highlights the bridge's constant movement and utility.
The Victorian Engine Rooms
Deep beneath the bridge's southern end lie the Victorian Engine Rooms, a hidden world of gleaming brass and rhythmic machinery. This is where the original steam engines that powered the bridge until 1976 are housed.
In their heyday, these massive coal-fired engines pumped water into six large "accumulators," creating the immense hydraulic pressure needed to raise the 1,000-ton bascules in just one minute. Today, the bridge is powered by electricity and oil, but the Victorian engines are meticulously maintained and stand as a monument to the ingenuity of the era. The smell of oil and the sheer scale of the machinery provide a vivid sense of the Bridge's industrial heart.
Modern Life and Bridge Lifts
Tower Bridge is still a vital part of London's infrastructure, carrying over 40,000 people and 21,000 vehicles every single day. Most importantly, it is still a working bridge. The bascules are raised around 800 times a year to allow large vessels to pass.
Seeing a Bridge Lift: A common misconception is that vous have to pay to see the bridge raise. In fact, vous can watch it for free from the riverbanks. The times are published on the official website weeks in advance. If vous are lucky enough to be on the Glass Floor during a lift, it is an experience vous will never forget.
Architecture: Gothic Revival
While the bridge's internal structure is steel, its exterior is clad in beautiful Cornish granite and Portland stone in the Gothic Revival style. This was done to harmonize the bridge with the nearby Tower of London. The result is a structure that feels both ancient and utilitarian, a perfect fusion of form and function.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets: To walk across the high-level walkways, experience the glass floor, and visit the engine rooms, vous need a ticket. It is highly recommended to book online in advance to guarantee your entry time and save money.
Location: The entrance is at the North Tower (closest to the Tower of London). The engine rooms are located a short walk away on the south side of the bridge—your ticket covers both parts of the exhibit.
Accessibility: The exhibition is fully accessible with lifts to the walkways and leveled access to the engine rooms.
Getting There: Tower Hill (District and Circle lines) is the nearest tube station. London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines) is also a short and very scenic 10-minute walk away across the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tower Bridge the same as London Bridge?
No! This is the most common mistake tourists make. London Bridge is the next bridge to the west. It is a much simpler, more modern concrete bridge, although it sits on the site of the original Roman crossing.
How long does the tour take?
A typical visit to the walkways and the engine rooms takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Allow more time if vous want to linger on the glass floor or read all the historical displays.
Can I walk across for free?
Yes, vous can walk across the road level of the bridge for free anytime. The ticket is only required for the high-level walkways and the internal museum sections.