Tower Bridge - Icon of London over the Thames
Tower Bridge is not just a bridge - it is a symbol of London, which has been delighting residents and tourists with its majestic architecture and innovative construction for over a century. Situated on the Thames, next to the famous Tower of London, it is an unforgettable element of the panorama of the British capital.
History written in steel and stone
Construction of Tower Bridge began in 1886 and took 8 years. The ceremonial opening of the bridge took place on June 30, 1894, when the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) cut the ribbon, inaugurating a new era in the history of London. The bridge was designed by Horace Jones and John Wolfe Barry as a response to the growing transportation needs of the growing city.
An architectural masterpiece
Tower Bridge is a true masterpiece of Victorian engineering. Its characteristic neo-Gothic towers, made of Portland stone and Cornish granite, rise to a height of 65 meters. The two pedestrian bridges connecting the towers are 44 meters above river level. The bridge is 244 meters long, of which 61 meters are movable drawbridge spans.
An engineering miracle - how does a drawbridge work?
The most fascinating aspect of the Tower Bridge is its ability to raise the center spans, allowing larger ships to pass. The original steam-powered hydraulic mechanisms were replaced in 1976 by an electric-hydraulic system. The bridge opens about 850 times a year, and the lifting process takes only 5 minutes!
Attractions for visitors
Glass gallery - brave tourists can walk on the glass floor at a height of 42 meters above the Thames, admiring the street and river traffic under their feet.
Engine room - it is worth visiting the original steam engine rooms from the 19th century, which powered the bridge mechanism for years. It is a fascinating journey back in time to the era of the industrial revolution.
Practical information for tourists
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last entry at 4:30 p.m.)
- Ticket prices: Adults - £10.60, Children (5-15 years) - £5.30, Seniors (65+) - £7.90
- How to get there: The nearest tube stations are London Bridge (10 minutes' walk) and Tower Hill (5 minutes' walk)
- Buy tickets online
Did you know that...?
In 1952, bus no. 78 had to jump over a gap between the opening spans of the bridge!
Underwater there are huge chambers that once housed the mechanisms for lifting the bridge.
The bridge is painted in red, white and blue in honor of the Silver Jubilee of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II in 1977.
Tower Bridge is not just a crossing of the Thames - it is living history, an engineering marvel and an unforgettable tourist attraction. Whether you admire it from the riverside or dare to look down through the glass floor, Tower Bridge will always remain in your memory as a symbol of London and British innovation. Plan your visit today and become part of the fascinating history of this extraordinary bridge!