Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, opened in 1894, is London's most recognisable bridge and a visitor attraction in its own right. Inside, you can cross the high-level walkways and glass floors 42 metres above the Thames, then descend to the Victorian Engine Rooms that powered the bridge lifts for more than 80 years.
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Inside the bridge
A ticket covers the North and South Towers, the high-level walkways and the Engine Rooms. The walkways give views east and west along the river, and the glass floor panels let you look straight down at traffic and boats below. Exhibits tell the story of how the bridge was built and the people who have kept it running. The bridge is still a working crossing, so you will share the view with daily traffic below.
Seeing a bridge lift
The bascules still rise for tall vessels. Lift times are published on the Tower Bridge website, so check the timetable and time your visit; watching from the walkway glass floor or from the riverbank both work well. Relaxed openings with lower capacity and a reduced soundscape are offered for neurodivergent visitors. Check the bridge lift timetable before booking your slot.
Tours and nearby
Audio tours are included, and 90-minute guided tours run in English with BSL and Deaf-led options; behind-the-scenes tours run in autumn and winter. The Tower of London is a few minutes' walk away, The Tower Hotel overlooks the bridge, and The Shard is across the river. The two together make a full morning, and the Thames Path continues along both banks.
Highlights
- Opened in 1894
- High-level walkways 42m above the Thames
- Glass floor panels
- Victorian Engine Rooms
- Scheduled bridge lifts
Good to know
- Tickets can be booked up to six weeks ahead; groups of 15 or more must pre-book.
- Last entry is an hour before closing.
- Relaxed openings and BSL-interpreted tours are offered; check the access page for step-free details.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: towerbridge.org.uk