Tower Bridge crosses the River Thames near the Tower of London and the Shard. Featured in many popular films, the Town Bridge is an iconic sight. Not to be confused with London Bridge, Tower Bridge is celebrating 250 years of existence in 2019 and is not to be missed.
The site of Tower Bridge is beautiful, even from afar. It’s still a working structure a continues to be a busy working road. You can walk across the bridge for free, but you need tickets to enter the tower for a full experience.
During your visit, you will see the intricate engineering and architecture that went into building the bridge. It is the only type in London to raise its bascules and let ships pass through. You can view the full extent of the bridge on high-level walkways with panoramic views as well as, not for the faint-hearted - the glass floor!
It also has a magnificent Victorian Engine Room. It is a permanent feature and shows the inner working of the bridge, including the original steam engines, and coal burners. Initially, the machines were powered by pressurised water stored in several hydraulic accumulators. When it first built, it was opened around 25 times a day, now, the bridge opens three times a day and takes one minute to open.
Buying the tickets online before your visit is often cheaper. At the door, tickets cost £9.80 for Adults, £4.20 for children between 5 and 15, £6.80 for concession and free for children under 5 (prices as of June 2019). There are family tickets available and an option to book tickets for The Monument (311 step memorial for victims of the Great Fire) at the same time. Access may be restricted during bridge lifts.
When visiting the Tower Bridge allow an hour for the full experience. It may also be worth noting that the glass floor can be walked around and is therefore optional. For more information and to see bridge lifting times, visit www.towerbridge.org.uk