The Ultimate Guide to Tower Bridge, London: Inside the Icon

When you picture the London skyline, one architectural masterpiece instantly comes
to mind: Tower Bridge. Often mistaken by first-time visitors for its simpler neighbour,
London Bridge, this iconic Victorian bascule bridge is an absolute must-see on any
London sightseeing tour.
Whether you are looking to snap the perfect photo from the River Thames or want to
venture deep inside its historic towers, our comprehensive guide covers everything
you need to know before visiting Tower Bridge, London.

Why Tower Bridge is a London Sightseeing Highlight

Completed in 1894, Tower Bridge is a marvel of Victorian engineering. It was
designed as a “bascule” (seesaw) bridge to allow commercial ships access to
London’s busy pool of docks while maintaining road traffic across the river.
Today, it stands as one of the world’s most famous bridges, combining stunning
Neo-Gothic architecture with a rich, gritty history of the workers who built and
maintained it.

Top Things to Do Inside Tower Bridge

While viewing the bridge from the riverbank is spectacular, stepping inside the
Tower Bridge Experience unlocks a whole new perspective of the city. Here is what
you cannot miss:

1. The High-Level Glass Walkways

Suspended 42 metres above the River Thames, the high-level walkways offer breath
taking panoramic views of London. Look west to spot the historic Tower of London
and the soaring peak of The Shard, or look east toward the modern skyscrapers of
Canary Wharf. The thrill of the walk is the spectacular glass floor, allowing you to
look straight down at the famous red double-decker buses and passing riverboats
below.

2. The Historic Victorian Engine Rooms

Don’t skip the final leg of the tour! Follow the distinct Blue Line on the pavement
from the South Tower to the original Victorian Engine Rooms. Here, you will get up
close to the massive, beautifully restored steam engines, coal-fired boilers, and
accumulators that once powered the mighty bridge lifts. It is a fascinating look into
the industrial heart of Victorian London.

3. Watch a Famous Bridge Lift

Did you know that Tower Bridge is still fully operational? The bridge raises its heavy
bascules roughly 800 times a year to let tall ships pass. Watching the giant
mechanism split in two is an unforgettable highlight.

• Local Expert Tip: The lifting schedule changes weekly. Be sure to check the official
  live bridge lift times online to coordinate your sightseeing tour perfectly with a
  schedule lift!