Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. It’s not only a stunning sight, but also a fascinating engineering marvel that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the city.
Tower Bridge is a magnificent structure that connects the two banks of the River Thames near the Tower of London, one of the most ancient and renowned castles in the world. The bridge was constructed from 1886 to 1894, after a public contest was held to find a design that would allow both road and river traffic to flow freely. The winning design was a hybrid of a bascule bridge and a suspension bridge, with two towers that could lift and lower the bridge deck to let ships pass through. The bridge also features two walkways that link the towers and offer spectacular views of the city. Tower Bridge is not only a wonder of engineering, but also a symbol of London’s history and culture, as it matches the architectural style of the nearby Tower of London and displays the achievements of Victorian technology and artistry. Tower Bridge is open to the public and hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.
But how do you make the most of your Tower Bridge experience? Here are some tips to help you plan your perfect trip.
How to Get Your Tickets
You can buy your tickets online or at the ticket office, located at the base of the North West Tower. Buying online is cheaper and faster, as you can skip the queue and enjoy a 10% discount. Plus, you can choose the date and time of your visit, so you don’t have to worry about availability.
Tickets cost £12.30 for adults, £6.20 for children, and £9.20 for students and seniors. There are also family tickets and community tickets for local residents. Your ticket includes access to the Towers, the Walkways, the Glass Floors, and the Engine Rooms.
If you want to learn more about the Bridge and its history, you can also join a guided tour on Saturdays and Sundays for an extra fee. You’ll get to hear stories and anecdotes from a knowledgeable guide, and ask any questions you might have.
Tip: If you want to save money and time, you can also buy a combined ticket that gives you access to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, which is just a short walk away. You can visit both attractions on the same day or within seven days of each other.
How to Get There
Tower Bridge is easy to reach by public transport, as it’s well connected to the rest of the city. The nearest tube stations are Tower Hill and London Bridge, both within a 10-minute walk. You can also take the bus, as there are several routes that stop near the Bridge.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also get to the Bridge by boat. You can take a river cruise or a water taxi, and enjoy the views of the Thames and the skyline. You might even catch a glimpse of the Bridge lifting, which happens several times a day to allow ships to pass through. You can check the lift times on the Tower Bridge website.
Tip: If you want to explore the city by bike, you can also rent a Santander Cycle from one of the docking stations near the Bridge. You can cycle along the river and see other landmarks, such as the Shard, the Globe Theatre, and the London Eye.
What to Expect
Once you arrive at the Bridge, you’ll be amazed by its beauty and elegance. You’ll start your visit at the Towers, where you’ll learn about the history and construction of the Bridge, and see some of the original machinery and tools used to build it.
Then, you’ll head to the Walkways, where you’ll walk across the Bridge and admire the panoramic views of the city. You’ll also get to experience the thrill of walking on the Glass Floors, where you can see the traffic and the river below your feet.
Finally, you’ll descend to the Engine Rooms, where you’ll discover the secrets of the Bridge’s hydraulic system, and see the giant engines and pumps that power the lifting mechanism.
Tip: If you want to make your visit more interactive and fun, you can also download the Tower Bridge app, which offers an augmented reality experience, a scavenger hunt, and a quiz. You can also use the app to take selfies and share them on social media.
How to Enjoy Your Visit
Tower Bridge is more than just a bridge. It’s a living museum, a cultural icon, and a source of inspiration. Here are some ways to make your visit even more enjoyable:
- Take loads of photos and videos of your visit, so that you can share them with your friends and family.
- Explore the surrounding area, where you’ll find plenty of attractions and activities, such as The Tower of London, HMS Belfast, St Katharine Docks, and more. You can also find some great places to eat and drink.
- Come back for more, as Tower Bridge offers different events and exhibitions throughout the year, such as art installations, light shows, yoga sessions, and more. You can also book the Bridge for private events, such as weddings, parties, and corporate functions.
Tower Bridge is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting London. It’s a place where you can learn, have fun, and create memories. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of the world’s most famous bridges. Book your tickets today and get ready for an unforgettable London adventure.
