Tower Bridge and The Tower Bridge Exhibition
Tower Hill, London SE1

Tower Bridge, one of the great symbols of London. 

Around the middle of the 19th century the volume of cross-river traffic meant a bridge close to the Tower of London was needed.  The capital's best-known bridge, designed by Sir Horace Jones, was built between 1886 - 94. 

Two major piers were sunk into the riverbed to support the construction and 11,000 tonnes of steel were used for the framework of the towers and walkways.  The pioneering structure was then clad in Cornish granite and Portland Stone, to protect the steelwork and give the bridge a fashionable Gothic appearance. 

Its pinnacled towers and linking catwalk support the mechanism for raising the roadway when large ships need to pass through, or for special and historic occasions.  On its completion, Tower Bridge was the world's largest and most sophisticated hydraulically operated bridge. 

Until 1976 the machinery was powered by steam, but now the hydraulic machinery is electronically operated. 

When raised the bridge is 135 feet high and 200 feet wide. Once the bridge was opened five times a day and now it still raises at least once a day. 

Telephone 020 7940 3984 to find out when it will be raised, and the name and type of vessel passing beneath.   

Tower Bridge is a world-famous landmark, and 'The Tower Bridge Exhibition' is one of London's most usual and exciting exhibitions. 

At the Exhibition the stone clad towers and high level Walkways offer a rich insight into London's history, plus panoramic views across the sky line enable you to see some the Capital's finest architecture.

The self-guided tour introduces you to the colourful history of the Bridge from Victorian times to the present day. You will discover how and why the bridge was built, through the videos and interactive displays in the Towers and Walkways and then continue to the Victorian Engine Rooms, where you will be able to see the original engines that used to power the Bridge.

Admission charge , for Tower Bridge Exhibition

Opening Times