Probably one of the most famous bridges of Great Britain is Tower Bridge in the city of London.
Its unusual appearance makes it easily recognizable: on the impressive river bents there are two towers in the Gothic style, which are connected by bascule spans and walkways.
Tower Bridge is a bascule bridge, and it’s also the lowest constructed overpass above the River Thames – these are the main features that distinguish it from the other alike erections. The bridge got its name due to the neighborhood with the Tower, which is located on the north side.
Tower Bridge © Anthony Sullivan / Shutterstock
Brief History
For a long time the River Thames was crossed by one bridge - London Bridge. But the tremendous economic rise and the growth of population at the beginning of the 19th century created a need for building additional bridges, which were supposed to help solve the transport problem of the capital.
Over the years, several bridges were built, but the problems with the traffic flow did not decrease. Soon there was established a committee that studied dozens of projects and only in 1884, the project plan of John Wolfe Barry and Horace Jones was approved.
More than 400 workers during 8 years worked on the construction of the bridge. The opening of the engineering structure was on June 30 in 1894. Prince of Wales Edward and his wife Princess Alexandra were present at the grand event.
Тауэрский мост © olavs / Shutterstock
The bridge was made in the Gothic style but with a number of innovative developments. For example, thanks to the hydraulic system, only a couple of minutes are enough to ensure a free passage to the floating ship. Until 1974, the bridge was lifted because of the operation of steam engines, in the furnaces of which coal was burned that brought the pumps in operation. They pumped water into reservoirs, storing energy. However, the progress did not stand still, and the whole mechanism was replaced by an electro-hydraulic system that significantly saved time and costs. Due to this design the bridge was raised by necessity but not to the schedule.
Time passed, and over the years Tower Bridge along with Big Ben becomes a real symbol and one of the main attractions of London. All metal structures are painted in the colors of the national flag.
To date, Tower Bridge is one of the most visited points of interest of England. It is an honor for many tourists coming to London to make a walk along the legendary structure, especially since many hotels in London direct to very informative and complex excursions around the city.
Tower Bridge © pisaphotography / Shutterstock
Tower Bridge on the map
Tower Bridge - attractions nearby
Big Ben
Buckingham Palace
Tower of London
Madame Tussauds London
London Eye
Westminster Abbey
Trafalgar Square
British Museum
Sherlock Holmes Museum
Changing of the Guard
Kensington Palace
Covent Garden
London Bridge
Camden Market
Greenwich
Hampton Court Palace
Harrods
Hyde Park
King's Cross
London Dungeon
ZSL London Zoo
Piccadilly Circus
Soho
St. Paul's Cathedral
Entrance tickets & Tours
2 hours 30 minutes
Night Photography Tour in London
1 review
Explore night photography and learn to capture stunning night time photos by mastering some of the most creative elements of photography.Whether you are starting off, a hobbyist or an experienced photographer we will have superb photographic opportunities for all kinds of interests. Guided by a professional photographer in this immensely enjoyable 3-hour night tour we will capture a variety of impressive sight in the city, the reflections along the Thames and the city lights that make this renowned city irresistible.We will capture not only the great landmarks such as London Eye, St Pauls and Tower Bridge, but also the stream of car lights and the blurred passing of boats on the river Thames. Through demonstration and a personalised photography practice you will develop your own creative vision while receiving expert advice on shooting in low light and long exposures.
from
100€
Free cancellation
Book now & pay later
3 hours 30 minutes
Secret Food Tour in London: London Bridge and Borough Market
133 reviews
Your guides are real foodies, and they have made it their goal to introduce visitors to the ‘excellence of British’ traditional food. The guides will be sharing with you their local knowledge of the dining culture and latest gastronomy trends. The local guides will take you to food shops, beloved by the area’s locals, and we are sure that you’ll fall in love with them too.
from
89€
Free cancellation
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1 hour 30 minutes
Professional Photoshoot in London
2 reviews
In this private photoshoot I shall take you through to the most picturistic and beautiful locations in London, while I capture you with the fascinating views and character of this amazing city.I'll give you tips with poses to be the best of you in front of the camera, so it will be fun and an enjoyable experience!We will walk through the most iconic and hidden photographic spots in London - from St Paul’s Cathedral to Tower Bridge, and capture the fun of your photo experience in the city so that you have fabulous photos and remember the great time you had.This experience is great for individuals, a couple, group of friends or a family.
from
92€
Free cancellation
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2 hours 30 minutes
London photoshoot with Pro photographer. Prewedding/Individual/Family
2 reviews
What we are going to do during our 2,5 hours long London's spring photo walk?We will take pictures of you, you with your partner, family or friends in most iconic spots in London. What can be better than the stunning backdrops of London. You can choose whether you'd like to pose or simply be photographed living a moment. Or maybe you want to take some professional lifestyle pictures for your project or portfolio during your London visit. I have experience in various themed shoots for London visitors like lifestyle photo shoots for book writer, yoga teacher, architect, publisher and many other (please read my reviews). Every of this shoots has own concept and route.Either way, your emotions and memories will be captured during your London visit.
from
141€
Free cancellation
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