Hotels near Tower Bridge, London, United Kingdom

Tower Bridge was designed with a central section that could lift to allow tall ships and larger vessels to pass along the Thames. The specially engineered bascules lift the historical bridge several times a week, depending on boat schedules, with lifting times published on the official website for ease of planning.

The lifts can be activated any time throughout the day but they tend to occur more often in the afternoons, especially going into the evening. Preferred visitor vantage points for viewing the bridge's movement are from the pedestrian walkways around the bridge or from the riverside promenade near Tower of London and Southbank.

The actual lifting event lasts approximately 10 minutes and is considered a memorable experience by visitors, especially those with an interest in engineering or naval history. Viewing the magnificence of Tower Bridge gives some insight into historical infrastructure still in operation in a modern city setting.

Yes, visitors can walk on Tower Bridge from two distinct areas: the lower road and the upper walkways. The pedestrian walkway on the lower road is also part of the everyday traffic with vehicles moving across, and offers clear views of River Thames and other points of interest in the vicinity.

Walking the lower road is free and takes just a few minutes to cross on foot. Those looking for something a little bit more immersive, could visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which allows access to the upper level walkways with glass floors that expose the inner workings of the bridge and offer nice vantage points to enjoy the cityscape.

The exhibition also features helpful displays, providing historical context about the bridge with more construction and engineering details shared alongside its historic role in London’s transport system.

The Tower Bridge Exhibition is a visitor attraction located in the bridge's upper walkways and towers that connects visitors with the history, engineering, and architecture of the bridge. The experience starts with the North and South Towers where multimedia displays detail how the bridge was built in the late 19th century. A highlight for many is the glass-floored walkways allowing visitors a glimpse down onto the traffic and river below, together with a view of the London skyline.

The exhibition also gives access to the Victorian engine rooms, where you can see the original steam-powered machinery used to move the bridge. Educational panels, short films, and interactive models help visitors to understand how the bascule mechanism functions. The exhibition is suitable for families and makes for a memorable experience, especially for those with an interest in history.

It takes approximately 45 minutes to walk through. You'll need to purchase a ticket which can be done online or in person.

There is an entry fee for the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which includes access to the high-level walkways with glass floors and the historic engine rooms. Concession rates are available for children, seniors, students, and families. In addition, discounted tickets are offered to disabled visitors, including both adults and children, with complimentary entry available for one accompanying companion per disbaled visitor to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience for all.

Access to the bridge’s public roadway at street level remains free for pedestrians. You can purchase tickets on-site, or purchase them in advance for convenience.

The entry fee helps support the ongoing maintenance and operation of the historic site. Considering the popularity of Tower Bridge, an advance purchase is advised to avoid the queues and beat the waiting times if you are visiting on a weekend or public holiday.

Tower Bridge is over 120 years old and opened in 1894 for traffic. It was built to alleviate traffic congestion for Victorian Londoners, while allowing tall ships to make it to busy docks further upstream.

Tower Bridge is a bascule and suspension bridge built by architect Sir Horace Jones and engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry. With its two Gothic-style towers that create continuity with the Tower of London, the bridge has become one of the most recognized symbols of London and is a lasting testament to the notable accomplishments of 19th century engineering.

Although Tower Bridge has gone through refurbishment with modifications to some of its hydraulic systems, in addition to updates of its walkways, the bulk of the original structure remains in its original form. A chance to see Tower Bridge while in London isn't merely a photo opportunity; it tells a compelling story about the industrial and architectural history of the city.