Tower Bridge is a historic and iconic symbol of London, situated on the River Thames. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city and is a must-see attraction for tourists. Tower Bridge was built in the late 19th century and has since become an important symbol of London’s industrial heritage. The bridge is still in use today and is an important crossing point for vehicles and pedestrians alike.
History of Tower Bridge:
Tower Bridge was constructed in the late 19th century to provide a river crossing that would not impede the movement of tall ships on the River Thames. At the time, London was the busiest port in the world, and the need for a new bridge was becoming increasingly urgent. The project was launched in 1876 and was finally completed in 1894.
The bridge was designed by architect Sir Horace Jones and engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry. The design was chosen from more than 50 entries in a competition. The bridge features two towers that are connected by a walkway and are supported by steel cables. The towers are made of stone, while the walkway and other parts of the bridge are made of steel.
In 1982, the bridge was restored and a new pedestrian walkway was added, allowing visitors to walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the River Thames and the London skyline.
Attractions at Tower Bridge:
Visitors to Tower Bridge can enjoy a variety of attractions and experiences, including:
- Tower Bridge Exhibition: The Tower Bridge Exhibition allows visitors to learn about the history of the bridge and see some of the machinery that was used to operate the bridge in the past. Visitors can also walk across the high-level walkways and enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and the city.
- Tower Bridge Glass Floor: The Tower Bridge Glass Floor is a popular attraction that allows visitors to stand on a glass floor that is suspended 42 meters above the River Thames. This unique experience gives visitors the feeling of walking on air as they look down at the river and the boats passing below.
- Engine Room: The Tower Bridge Engine Room is where visitors can learn about the technology that was used to operate the bridge in the past. The Engine Room houses some of the original machinery that was used to lift the bridge and control its movement.
- Tower Bridge Walkways: The Tower Bridge Walkways are the high-level walkways that connect the two towers of the bridge. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and the River Thames from these walkways.
- Tower Bridge Tours: Visitors can take guided tours of Tower Bridge to learn about the history of the bridge and the city. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer questions and provide insights into the architecture and engineering of the bridge.
- Tower Bridge Shop: The Tower Bridge Shop offers a wide range of souvenirs, gifts, and memorabilia related to the bridge and the city. Visitors can find everything from postcards and keychains to t-shirts and mugs.
Tower Bridge is a popular attraction for visitors to London and is an important part of the city’s history and heritage. The bridge is open to the public year-round, and visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions and experiences that showcase the bridge’s unique architecture and engineering. From the Tower Bridge Exhibition to the Glass Floor and the Engine Room, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic landmark.
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FAQ's
Can I purchase my ticket in advance?
Yes. We encourage you to purchase your ticket in advance here in order to guarantee your visit time.
Can I purchase my ticket on-site?
You can purchase your ticket on-site at the Ticket Office, located at the main entrance in the North Tower. However, as entry time slots have been introduced, we strongly encourage you to book your ticket in advance.
Does my pre-booked ticket grant me fast track access to Tower Bridge?
Your pre-booked online ticket will not offer you fast track entry into Tower Bridge. Your e-ticket will be checked by our team once you arrive. Please allow additional time for validating your booking and security checks.
Are student or concession tickets available?
Yes, student and concession tickets are available. These will be redeemed with a valid student/ID card upon arrival. We accept student cards from all over the world.
Do you have any ticket offers/group rates?
Yes, we have a great selection of ticket offers including special prices for families. There are also special rates available for groups of 10 or more.
What is your refund policy?
All tickets are non-refundable. If you are unable to visit at your booked date and time, we may be able to transfer your booking to an alternative date. Transfer requests must be made in writing no less than 3 days prior to the original visit date by contacting us at bookings@towerbridge.org.uk Please see our full terms and conditions.
My plans have changed. Can I change my entry time? And what happens if I am late
Before the day If you would like to change your time-slot before the date of your visit, it’s best to email bookings@towerbridge.org.uk in time so we can move it to a later time-slot. We’ll get back to you Mon-Fri (10am-4pm). Any amendment requests are subject to availability. On the day (and out of hours) If you’ve been unable to change your booking and you arrive after your time slot, we will do our best to move your booking to the next available time-slot, subject to availability.
If I get Covid-19 and cannot travel, will you refund me?
If you display any symptoms associated with Covid-19, we ask you to refrain from visiting. We will transfer your booking to another day by contacting us at bookings@towerbridge.org.uk
I have paid but didn't receive an email confirmation/ticket
Please check your spam/junk folder as emails can sometimes find their way there. If you still can't find it, please arrive at the Ticket Office at the time you have booked for - our team will find your reservation in the bookings system.
I have a London Pass/London Explorer Pass, do I need to book before visiting?
London Pass or London Explorer Pass holders will be able to enter at the next available time slot without booking in advance. Please let a member of staff know that you have a Pass. Admission is subject to availability. For further information, please contact your pass provider.
How do I use my National Rail Days Out Guide 2FOR1 offer at Tower Bridge?
If you have a voucher: Visitors wishing to use the 2FOR1 offer must pre-book their tickets online. We currently cannot accept vouchers. Visit our page on the National Rail Days Out Guide website to register for your promo code. Once received, use that code on our website to book your visit. If you have a promo code: Our National Rail Days Out Guide 2 FOR1 offer gives you 2 for 1 entry on full price adult tickets to Tower Bridge when you travel by train. When booking your tickets, you need to select the ticket type called National Rail Days Out - Two Visitors. You will then be prompted to enter your promo / discount code on the next page where the discount will be applied. On the day of your visit please ensure that you bring your Tower Bridge E-tickets (either printed out or on a mobile device) and a valid National Rail train ticket for each visitor using the 2FOR1 offer. If you are unable to produce valid train tickets you will be charged the additional amount to enter the Bridge. For further information about the Days Out Guide 2FOR1 offer, including train ticket validity information, see National Rail Days Out Guide FAQs.
Is Tower Bridge fully accessible?
Yes, Tower Bridge is fully accessible. There is lift access taking visitors to all levels in the Towers and Engine Rooms, although our lifts will only be available for those who require them. This means all visitors can enjoy London’s defining landmark safely. Accessible toilets are also available once inside.
Can I take my belongings inside Tower Bridge?
We only allow small bags, up to 40cm x 20cm x 25cm, inside Tower Bridge. All bags are searched on arrival. We are unable to offer bag storage or a cloakroom on-site. Please note as our visitor experience involves leaving Tower Bridge to walk to the Engine Rooms, your bags will be subjected to a second search.
Is there anything I can't take onto the Glass Floor?
Glass items such as bottles are not permitted near the Glass Floors for health and safety reasons. If you have any further queries about which items are allowed inside Tower Bridge, contact us prior your visit on +44 (0)20 7403 3761 or email enquiries@towerbridge.org.uk.
How do I get to Tower Bridge?
Tower Bridge can be accessed by several modes of transport. Please visit our Getting Here page to find the quickest route for your day out.
Do you have a café or restaurant?
We do not have a café or restaurant on-site. Tower Bridge is near open spaces such as Potters Field Park, where you can sit down and have your lunch or make a picnic with your family. Otherwise, there are a number of places to eat out in the vicinity.
Do you have a gift shop?
Yes, our gift shop is the final part of the visitor experience. We have a selection of exclusive items made by London-based artists. We also have an online shop if you want to browse in advance.
Do you have Wi-Fi?
Yes, we do have free Wi-Fi. Please select ‘Tower Bridge’ to be connected to the internet.
What else can I see in the area?
There is plenty to see near Tower Bridge, including the Tower of London, the View from the Shard, HMS Belfast, and one of the City of London’s most historic attractions, The Monument to the Great Fire of London.
Does Tower Bridge still open?
As well as being an iconic landmark, leading tourist attraction and heritage site, Tower Bridge is also a working bridge. It is still raised around 800 times each year - find out when the next Bridge Lift is. Ask a member of staff for the best watching spot. We're always happy to help!
Are dogs allowed inside the attraction?
Yes, Tower Bridge is one of a few attractions in London that is dog-friendly. We ask that dogs are kept on their lead and supervised at all times during their visit. At busy times, we may restrict the number of dogs allowed into the attraction however assistance dogs will be allowed in at all times. Find out more about visiting Tower Bridge with your dog.
Do you run tours at Tower Bridge?
We offer a great range of guided tours, with which you can explore the Bridge’s iconic structure, current exhibitions and magnificent Victorian Engine Rooms. If you are looking for that something extra special we offer a 'Behind the Scenes' tour, where you will be taken to areas which are usually out of bounds to visitors.
Do you offer any special visits for schools?
Our fantastic learning programme offers pupils the chance to explore the history and engineering of this iconic structure and its environment through fascinating hands-on workshops.
