London Tower Bridge — About, History, Tours & Visitor Info

Discover London’s iconic Tower Bridge: a twin-tower bascule and suspension bridge opened in 1894. Walk the Glass Floor (~42 m above the Thames), explore the Victorian Engine Rooms, and plan your visit with clear tips, maps, and ticket options.

About Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge spans the Thames between the Tower of London (north bank) and Southwark/Shad Thames (south bank). Designed by Sir Horace Jones with engineering by Sir John Wolfe Barry, it combines suspension chains with a central double-leaf bascule (drawbridge) to let tall ships pass. The stone and granite cladding gives a Gothic revival look, but its core is industrial steel—an elegant blend of form and function that still defines London’s skyline.

What You’ll See

The high-level Walkways link both towers and include the thrilling Glass Floor panels with views down to buses and boats. Below, the Victorian Engine Rooms showcase original machinery and the story of the bridge’s operation, from steam power to modern hydraulics.

Why It’s Special

Few bridges work this hard: it’s a major river crossing, a working opening bridge, and a museum in one. On lucky days you can watch a bridge lift—a genuine piece of London theatre driven by river traffic.

Brief History & Timeline

  • 1870s–1880s — City debates a new Thames crossing that won’t block tall ships.
  • 1886 — Construction of Tower Bridge begins.
  • 1894 — Official opening (June) by the Prince & Princess of Wales; bascules powered by steam hydraulics.
  • 1976 — Bridge machinery converted from steam to electro-hydraulic power.
  • 1982 — Tower Bridge Exhibition opens to visitors.
  • 2014 — Glass Floor installed on the high-level walkways.

Note: Bridge lifts are scheduled on demand for vessels and can be changed or cancelled at short notice. Check day-of notices when planning your photos.

Tours & Ticket Options

Tower Bridge Entry Ticket

Access the Walkways (with Glass Floor) and the Victorian Engine Rooms. Mobile e-tickets accepted; timed entry helps avoid queues.

Tower of London + Tower Bridge

A guided combo: beat crowds at the Tower of London (Crown Jewels) then cross to Tower Bridge for Glass Floor views and the Engine Rooms.

Thames Sightseeing Cruise

Live-commentary routes pass under Tower Bridge for classic photos. Easy add-on before or after your Bridge visit.

River Hop-On Hop-Off

Flexible boats linking Westminster, Tower, and Greenwich—great for families and photographers chasing different angles.

Good to know: Many third-party tickets offer free cancellation up to 24 h before your slot—check the product page for exact terms.

What You’ll Experience

Walkways & Glass Floor

The high-level walkways give sweeping views of the City and the Pool of London. The Glass Floor panels reveal real-time river life below.

  1. Start at the steel edges if anyone is nervous about heights.
  2. Golden hour and blue hour deliver the best light for photos.
  3. Tripods/selfie sticks may be restricted on busy days.

Engine Rooms & Exhibits

Discover the original steam engines, accumulators and control systems, and how today’s electro-hydraulics raise the bascules. Clear displays make it engaging for adults and kids alike.

Photography: Personal photos are fine; follow on-site guidance—no flash/tripods where signed.

Insider Tips

Best Time

Weekdays outside school holidays are calmer. Early morning or late afternoon slots help avoid peak crowds and give dramatic light.

Families & Accessibility

Step-free routes and lifts operate between levels; staff can suggest the easiest paths. The Glass Floor is safe and popular with children.

Plan Ahead

Bridge lifts have no fixed daily time—check same-day notices. Keep e-tickets handy; travel light for quicker entry and bag checks.

Visitor Cheatsheet

Location

Spans the Thames between the Tower of London (north bank) and Shad Thames (south bank).

Nearest Stations

Tower Hill (District/Circle), London Bridge, and Monument. River: Tower Pier, London Bridge City Pier.

Opening Hours

Vary seasonally; check your ticket page for current times and any maintenance closures.

Visit Duration

Allow ~60–90 minutes for the Exhibition (Walkways + Engine Rooms). Add time for nearby sights.

Tickets

Mobile e-tickets widely accepted. Many tours allow free cancellation up to 24 h (verify per product).

What to Bring

Layers for breezy walkways, comfortable shoes, water, and a charged phone for e-tickets and maps.

Ready to Visit Tower Bridge?

Choose a timed entry for the Glass Floor and Engine Rooms, add a river cruise, and pair with the Tower of London for a full day on the Thames.