Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge has stood over the River Thames since 1894 and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Enjoy admission inside Tower Bridge without further payment.

Enjoy access to Tower Bridge with The London Pass®

• Stand over the Tower Bridge Glass Floor and view the bridge and passers below.
• Panoramic views over the River Thames and across London. 

Operating as a working bridge for over 125 years, Tower Bridge offers numerous exhibitions detailing its history, a range of family-friendly experiences as well as a unique viewing experience of the River Thames from its iconic Glass Floors in the 42-meter high walkways.

About the Tower Bridge London

Tower Bridge is one of the most impressive structures and sites in the capital and has stood over the River Thames since 1894. As well as being one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, it is one of the most visited attractions in London and remains a working bridge to this day. Visitors will also fall in love with the Tower Bridge Glass Floors and Victorian Engine Rooms.

Tower Bridge highlights 

Glass Floor – stand on the iconic Glass Floor and see London life right beneath your feet.

Unique views – enjoy unique views of London from over the River Thames.

Victorian Engine Rooms – explore the Victorian Engine Rooms and uncover the fascinating histories of cooks, coal stokers and engineers.

Tower Bridge facts

• The Bridge took eight years, five major contractors and the relentless labour of 432 construction workers each day to build. It was opened in 1894 and became a visitor attraction in 1982.

• Tower Bridge is a bascule bridge and today, the bascules are still operated by hydraulic power. Since 1976 they have been driven by oil and electricity rather than steam. The original pumping engines, accumulators, and boilers are on display within the Victorian Engine Rooms.

• Tower Bridge was originally painted brown. It was painted in the red, white, and blue colours we see today in 1977, in celebration of Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee.

The Tower Bridge vs. The London Bridge

Although London Bridge and Tower Bridge have distinct appearances, they are both renowned bridges that are worth visiting when in London. Both bridges are accessible to pedestrians without charge, and they are situated in prime locations that are surrounded by other notable attractions.

For those interested in breathtaking views of the city, the Tower Bridge's elevated walkways, which include a glass walkway, offer an unparalleled vantage point. In addition to capturing images of the iconic towers from ground level, visitors can also capture unique photos of other landmarks such as the Tower of London, HMS Belfast, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Millennium Bridge. Note that Tower Bridge tickets are needed to climb to the glass floor attraction, which is simply stunning!

While London Bridge is an excellent location to capture photos of Tower Bridge, it also has its own photographic appeal. However, the bridge's true allure lies in its extensive and mysterious history.

Don’t miss A Visit to the London Tower Bridge

Glass Floors
Visitors can admire Tower Bridge from a unique perspective and look down on passing boats and pedestrians underfoot and even catch the bascules rising if you time it right. From 42m above the river, the Glass Floor is a must-see if you need any more convincing, the Glass Floor is made up of five thick layers and can hold the equivalent weight of an elephant and two taxis. So you’re pretty safe.

Victorian Engine Rooms
Set amongst the original steam engines, coal burners, and accumulators that once powered the raising of Tower Bridge, uncover the fascinating histories of cooks, coal stokers, and engineers. Immerse yourself in this atmospheric space, where exciting interactives, newly commissioned films, and never before displayed photographs will explore and explain the role of this dynamic workplace at the heart of Tower Bridge. 

Family Trail
For those traveling with children, it’s worth downloading the Tower Bridge Family Trail app before you embark on your adventure. It’s full of interactive activities for the entire family to add another dimension to your Tower Bridge visit, slipping in significant moments of Tower Bridge history amongst origami boat folding lessons and a panoramic map of the London skyline. 

Audio Guide
Unlock the Bridge's history with their bespoke audio guide. Download the Smartify app to hear expert commentary from the team, and to access exclusive imagery and rarely-seen photographs.

The London Pass® is your solution to visit the top attractions for one low price!

Getting in: passholders do not need to book in advance. Enter the admissions lobby via the ‘Buy tickets’ lane. After the security/bag check, present your pass at the ticket desk for scanning and validation. Once your ticket has been validated, you will be issued with an entrance ticket. Please retain the ticket to gain admission to the Engine Rooms at the end of your visit.

Please note: all bags will be searched on arrival. Shoulder bags and backpacks with maximum dimensions 45 x 35 x 20 cm are allowed. Suitcases, wheeled bags and oversized items will not be allowed in the Bridge.

Tower Bridge is busiest in the afternoon and at the weekend. For the best experience, we recommend visiting on weekdays before 2PM.

For groups of 15 people or more, you must email [email protected] with your preferred date and time of visit at least three working days in advance.

For more information, please visit the Tower Bridge website.

From 8 January to early March 2024, Tower Bridge will be undergoing some scheduled maintenance work which may affect access to the attraction. For more information, please visit their website