As one of London’s most iconic landmarks, Tower Bridge has been a symbol of the English capital for over a century. Its majestic architecture and impressive engineering have made it a must-visit attraction for millions of tourists every year. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history, mechanics, and practical information of Tower Bridge, helping you plan an unforgettable visit to this incredible landmark.
Hours and Prices
Visiting or simply walking on Tower Bridge can be a unique experience. The entire package, known as The Tower Bridge Exhibition, includes the famous “catwalk” on pedestrian walkways, but also the walk on the glass floor that connects the two towers of the bridge and the visit to the permanent exhibition in the North Tower, South Tower, and Machine Room.
- Hours from April to September: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry)
- Hours from October to March: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry)
Please note that visiting the bridge is not possible on December 24-25-26, while January 1st is accessible from 10:00 AM.
Full Ticket
The full ticket price is £9.80. You can buy tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the ticket office.
Discounts
Disabled people, over 60 (with a valid ID card), and students over 16 years old (with a relevant document) pay £6.80. Children between 5 and 15 years old pay £4.20 (£3.00 with the concession).
Free admission for children under 5 years old and accompanying disabled people.
A 2-for-1 convention with the National Rail Service allows for a visit of two people to enter free of charge (one person pays one ticket). Those who buy a train ticket, Travelcard, or airport transfer ticket from companies Stansted Express or Gatwick Express can get a special voucher by registering on daysoutguide.co.uk.
Family Packages
£15.30 for one adult and two children; £20.00 for two adults and one child; £22.00 for two adults and two children; £24.50 for two adults and three children.
Combined Ticket
You can buy a combined ticket from €14.55 per person Tower Bridge + Monument to the Great Fire.
Online Tickets and Guided Tours
Where it is located and how to get there
From the city center, there are many options for reaching the attraction due to its efficient public transport network.
The main entrance and ticket office are located in the Western North Tower of the Bridge. The exhibition room is located at the southern end of Shad Thames. A blue line on the floor shows the route between one point and another.
On foot from the city center takes around 53 minutes, proceeding east towards Whitehall / A3212 (Get directions).
By bus via lines 15, 42, 78, 100, RV1.
In metro the Tower Hill station is served by Circle and District lines and is 8 minutes away on foot. Alternatively, there’s the London Bridge station serving the Northern line and Jubilee line, which is 11 minutes away on foot. In train the closest stations are London Bridge, Fenchurch Street, and Tower Gateway DLR.
By car the nearest parking lot is Tower Hill Coach and Car Park (Lower Thames Street, 50 – Get directions)
What to see and how to visit Tower Bridge in London
Tower Bridge has become one of the main symbols of the English capital. It’s probably the most scenic bridge in the city, along with the Millennium Bridge, which connects the City of London with Southwalk.
Located on the Thames, near the Tower of London, this bridge dates back to 1894 and is crossed every day by thousands of cars and pedestrians: there is a covered pedestrian passage. The two neogothic towers, 65 meters high, support the entire structure. In addition, the bridge itself can rise and lower like a true lever to allow large ships to pass through.
However, not everyone knows that Tower Bridge is also visitable as a tourist attraction by buying a ticket (those who own the London Pass have a 15% discount). Among the things to see at Tower Bridge, don’t miss:
Tower Bridge Expeditions:
Open every day from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, this exhibition tells the history and functioning of the bridge through interactive panels, videos, and experiences. It’s an incredibly fascinating place, suitable for both children and people who are passionate about mechanical engineering.
Glass Floor
Perhaps one of the most thrilling and surreal experiences to do in London! Walking on the Glass Floor will allow you to admire the bridge from an unusual perspective, and you’ll also have the chance to observe how a lever bridge works. Don’t be afraid if you’re afraid of heights: the floor is perfectly secure as it can support the weight of an elephant and two taxis!
East Walkway
Not suitable for those with weak hearts, the East Walkway is the beautiful glass walkway that connects the tops of the two neogothic towers. From its height, you’ll have a chance to take in most of London’s urban landscape, including the iconic Tower of London towering above the typical skyscrapers of the city skyline.
Useful Tips for Visiting the Attraction
Get there early!
The choice of transportation method may make all the difference; it would be ideal to get to the bridge ticket office located in the Western North Tower before its opening time.
Buy a City Card London Pass
The purchase of the London Pass will allow you to access more than 60 attractions within the city. Its cost varies depending on the age of the buyer and the duration of the pass (it starts from one day to ten days).
Priority Ticket
Buy a ticket with priority entry to avoid long lines at the ticket office.
Be aware of food and drink restrictions
Entry from outside is not allowed, especially during visits to the towers and machine room.
Time Minimum
The Tower Bridge Exhibition deserves at least two hours of your time. The more you explore (with plenty of photos from the bridge’s panoramic view), the more satisfied you’ll be.
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Ticket and documents
Don’t forget to present yourself at the ticket office with a valid ticket and ID card, especially if you’re eligible for concessions on the ticket.
Brief Historical Notes, Curiosities, and Practical Information: What You Need to Know
The history of Tower Bridge is quite fascinating and linked mainly to the mechanism that allows this extraordinary levitation bridge to lift up at the passage of a ship on the Thames. Eight years were needed to build it. The project, carried out by Horace Jones and Wolfe Barry, envisioned the construction of an alternative bridge connecting the two opposite banks of the Thames, thus allowing for quick crossing of the city, which was constantly expanding.
The mechanism of the levitation bridge was initially powered by steam until 1976.
Conclusion
Tower Bridge is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to London. With its rich history, impressive architecture, and fascinating engineering, it’s an experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your visit and can make the most of your time at this incredible landmark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to get to Tower Bridge from the city center?
A: The best way to get to Tower Bridge from the city center is by public transportation, such as bus or metro. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service.
Q: Can I visit Tower Bridge without buying a ticket?
A: Yes, you can walk on the pedestrian walkways and admire the bridge’s exterior without buying a ticket. However, to access the exhibition rooms and glass floor, you’ll need to purchase a ticket.
Q: Is Tower Bridge suitable for people with claustrophobia?
A: While some areas of the bridge may be narrow or enclosed, there are also open spaces available. If you have concerns about claustrophobia, it’s best to consult with your doctor before visiting.
Q: Can I take photos inside Tower Bridge?
A: Yes, photography is allowed inside Tower Bridge, but please respect other visitors and refrain from taking flash photographs.
Q: Is Tower Bridge accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, Tower Bridge has adapted facilities for visitors with disabilities. Please contact the attraction in advance to make arrangements.
Q: Can I bring food and drinks into Tower Bridge?
A: No, food and drink are not allowed inside Tower Bridge. There are also restrictions on eating and drinking in certain areas of the bridge.
Q: How long does it take to visit Tower Bridge?
A: The Tower Bridge Exhibition deserves at least two hours of your time. However, you can spend as much or as little time as you like exploring the attraction.
Q: Is there a ticket office at Tower Bridge?
A: Yes, there is a ticket office located in the Western North Tower of the bridge. You can also purchase tickets online before your visit.
Q: Can I buy a gift shop at Tower Bridge?
A: No, there are no gift shops or cafes inside Tower Bridge. However, you can take photos and souvenirs outside the attraction.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Here are some tips to help you plan your visit:
- Buy tickets in advance: To avoid long queues at the ticket office, buy your tickets online before your visit.
- Plan your itinerary: Make sure to allocate enough time for exploring the bridge and its exhibitions.
- Check the weather: Tower Bridge can be affected by bad weather, so check the forecast before your visit and plan accordingly.
- Arrive early: Get there early to avoid long queues at the ticket office or to enjoy the best views of the bridge.
Accommodation Options
If you’re planning a longer stay in London, here are some accommodation options near Tower Bridge:
- Tower Hill Hotel: A 3-star hotel located near the bridge.
- The Hoxton, Shad Thames: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
- Premier Inn London City South: A budget-friendly option with easy access to public transportation.
Food and Drink Options
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat or drink while visiting Tower Bridge, here are some options:
- The Glasshouse: A modern restaurant located in the South Tower of the bridge.
- The Tower Bridge Café: A café serving a range of snacks and drinks with stunning views of the bridge.
- The nearby pubs: There are several pubs nearby that offer a range of beers, wines, and food.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tower Bridge is an unforgettable experience for anyone traveling to London. With its rich history, impressive architecture, and fascinating engineering, it’s an attraction that will leave you with lifelong memories. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your visit and can make the most of your time at this incredible landmark.
Additional Resources
If you have any additional questions or need more information about Tower Bridge, here are some resources to help:
- Tower Bridge Website: The official website of Tower Bridge provides detailed information on opening hours, ticket prices, and exhibitions.
- London Pass Guide: A comprehensive guide to the London Pass, including details on attractions, discounts, and benefits.
- TripAdvisor Reviews: Check out TripAdvisor reviews from other visitors to get an insider’s perspective on your visit.
By following this guide and taking advantage of these resources, you’ll be well-prepared for a memorable and enjoyable visit to Tower Bridge.
