Travel Plan
Tower Bridge

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · LONDON

Tower Bridge

London's Victorian drawbridge, with glass-floored walkways 42 metres above the Thames.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Paid (exhibition)
Best time
Morning
Area
Tower Hill

London's iconic Victorian bridge, with a glass-floor walkway high above the river.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP

  • Tube: Tower Hill station, about 5 minutes' walk.
  • Exhibition: Tickets include the high walkways and the Victorian engine rooms.
  • Bridge lifts: Check online for times when the bridge opens for ships.

The story of Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge opened in 1894 to give road access across the Thames while letting tall ships reach the Pool of London. Its two bascules still rise for river traffic several times a week.

Inside the towers, an exhibition explains its design. The high-level walkways have glass floors, so you can look straight down at the traffic and boats below.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year.

Best time of day

Morning for fewer queues; night for the lit bridge.

Bridge lifts

Seeing a lift from the glass floor is unforgettable.

Tips before you go

  • Check the bridge lift times online to watch it open.
  • Time your visit with a scheduled bridge lift.
  • Walk along the South Bank to Shad Thames for great photos.

Best hotels near Tower Bridge

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

The Savoy

Legendary hotel on the Strand by the Thames.

See prices

The Ritz London

Famous Piccadilly hotel near Green Park.

See prices

Shangri-La The Shard, London

Rooms high in the Shard with views over the city.

See prices
All hotels near Tower Bridge

What's around Tower Bridge

  • Tower of LondonNext to the bridge.
  • Shad ThamesOld warehouse lanes.
  • Borough MarketFood market, 15 minutes away.
  • The ShardSkyscraper with a viewing gallery.

Questions travellers ask

Can I walk across Tower Bridge for free?

Yes; the walkways and engine rooms need a ticket.

How often does it lift?

Several times a week; check the schedule.

When did it open?

In 1894.

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Travel Plan · Tower Bridge Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure