
Tower Bridge
Published on 10th March 2017
Instead of just standing outside and having your photo taken near Tower Bridge you should enter inside this amazing structure and discover why the bridge was needed, how a design was chosen and how the bridge is raised! Animatronic characters from the bridge’s past guide visitors through a series of audio-visual presentations, which tell the story of this world-famous landmark. The main attraction has to be the spectacular views over London from the high level walkways, 45 metres above the River Thames. From this unique viewpoint, visitors can see some of London’s most well known buildings, such as the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and Canary Wharf. There is also a photographic exhibition on the east walkway, spanning over 100 years of the bridge’s history. A fascinating and educational experience. Tower Bridge History Tower Bridge was built 120 years ago to ease road traffic while maintaining river access to the busy Pool of London docks. Built with giant moveable roadways that lift up for passing ships, it is to this day considered an engineering marvel and beyond being one of London’s favourite icons, it is arguably one of the most famous and instantly recognisable structures in the entire world. Tower Bridge Exhibition Since 1982, Tower Bridge Exhibition has told the history of the bridge and why it came into existence through fascinating exhibition content. Visitors can also experience the exciting new glass floor and spectacular panoramic views from the high-level Walkways as well as the Victorian Engine Rooms, which house the beautiful steam engines that once powered the bridge lifts. This must-see attraction is the only way to explore the most famous bridge in the world! The Exhibition is also accredited with Visit England, Association of London Visitor Attractions (ALVA) and has recently been awarded the TripAdvisor 2014 Certificate of Excellence. The Working Bridge Under the Corporation of London (Tower Bridge) Act 1885, the City of London Corporation is required to raise the Bridge to provide access to and egress from the Upper Pool of London for registered vessels with a mast or superstructure of 30 feet or more. The service is provided free of charge subject to 24 hours’ notice and is available any time, day or night, 365 days per year. The Bridge is raised around 850 times each year. Opening Hours Summer Opening Hours: April – September 10:00 – 17:30 (last admission) Winter Opening Hours: October – March 09:30 – 17:00 (last admission) Tower Bridge Exhibition is closed 24 – 26 December and open from 10:00 on 1 January. You need never miss a Bridge lift again with this handy timetable of lift times towerbridge.org.uk/lift-times. For more information about visiting the Tower Bridge Exhibition click here.