London Tower Bridge — Best Activities & Things to Do (2025)
Experience Tower Bridge like a pro: step onto the Glass Floor 42 m above the Thames, tour the Victorian Engine Rooms, glide under the bascules on a river cruise, and pair your visit with the Tower of London and riverside neighborhoods. Simple, verified tips to plan your perfect day.
Top Experiences at Tower Bridge
These are the essentials—easy to book, family-friendly, and great value. Timed entry helps avoid queues; mobile e-tickets are widely accepted.
Glass Floor Walkways
Look straight down to buses and boats from the high-level walkways. Start at the steel edges if you’re nervous about heights.
Victorian Engine Rooms
Explore the original steam-age machinery that once raised the bascules—excellent interpretive displays and photo spots.
Bridge Lift (If You’re Lucky)
Bridge lifts occur for river traffic on demand. Check same-day notices; timings can change at short notice.
Thames Sightseeing Cruise
Live commentary and the best angles of Tower Bridge from the water—combine with entry for a complete experience.
Early-Access Combo
Beat the crowds at the Tower of London, see the Crown Jewels, then walk over to Tower Bridge for Glass Floor views.
Hop-On Hop-Off by River
Flexible boats between key piers (e.g., Westminster, Tower, Greenwich). Great for photos and traffic-free transfers.
Things to Do Around Tower Bridge
Tower of London
Cross the road to the 11th-century fortress—home of the Crown Jewels and Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters).
HMS Belfast
Board the WWII Royal Navy cruiser moored on the Thames—immersive decks and engine rooms to explore.
Shad Thames
Historic warehouses and narrow lanes on the south bank; some of the best photo angles back to the bridge.
Borough Market
Street-food heaven near London Bridge—ideal for lunch before or after your visit.
Sky Garden / The Shard
Skyline views within a short walk or hop—book free Sky Garden slots in advance or opt for The Shard.
St Katharine Docks
Marina cafés and calm waterside paths just east of the bridge; good for coffee breaks and evening photos.
Which Tower Bridge Ticket Should You Choose?
Tower Bridge Entry Ticket
Walkways with Glass Floor + Engine Rooms. Great first-timer choice with flexible times.
Tower of London + Tower Bridge (Early Access)
Guided combo for deeper history. Beat lines at the Tower, then cross to Bridge highlights.
Westminster ⇄ Greenwich Cruise
Live-commentary cruise with postcard views under Tower Bridge and past riverside icons.
River Hop-On Hop-Off
Flexible day pass—great for photographers and families. Multiple piers, frequent departures.
Tip: Many products offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your time slot. Check your specific ticket page for details.
Food & Drink Near Tower Bridge
Riverside Pubs
Classic pub lunches with bridge views along both banks—ideal after the Engine Rooms.
Borough Market Bites
From oysters to doughnuts—mix and match stalls for a quick, memorable meal.
Coffee & Bakeries
Independent spots around Tooley Street and More London—great for early slots or cold days.
Picnic Spots
Grassy patches at Potters Fields Park (south bank) or benches by St Katharine Docks (north bank).
Quick Visitor Tips
Best Time
Early morning or late afternoon for lighter crowds. Golden hour = top photos.
Visit Duration
Plan 60–90 minutes for Exhibition (Walkways + Engine Rooms); add 1–2 hours if pairing nearby sights.
Bridge Lifts
Check same-day lift times; schedules can change. Arrive early for vantage points.
Accessibility
Step-free routes and lifts available; staff can advise easiest paths between towers.
Weather Ready
Walkways can be breezy—carry a light layer. Non-slip footwear recommended.
Transport
Nearest: Tower Hill, London Bridge, Monument. River: Tower Pier & London Bridge City Pier.
Ready to Explore Tower Bridge?
Choose your entry, add a cruise, and pair with the Tower of London for a landmark-packed day on the Thames.