Tower Bridge, London : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Tower Bridge, located in the heart of London, is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. In this blog, we will explore some of the interesting facts and information about this magnificent bridge and provide a travel guide to visitors looking to visit this beautiful bridge. We will discuss the fascinating history of the bridge, its architectural features, and the thrill of crossing the bridge’s famous bascules, which draw thousands of tourists each year. We will also look at the amazing views Tower Bridge offers and the interesting activities nearby, from boat rides to attractions like the Tower of London. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of a visit to Tower Bridge, look no further – this blog will provide you with all the information you need!

Interesting Facts About Tower Bridge, London

1. Tower Bridge was completed in 1894 and at the time was the largest and most sophisticated bascule bridge ever built.

2. The Tower Bridge is over 800 ft. long and 200 ft. high.

3. Over 40,000 gallons of paint was used to paint the bridge.

4. There are two air-filled caissons which are located at the base of each of the structures of the bridge, these are designed to support the weight of both the bridge and its two walkways.

5. The two towers themselves are made from Portland stone.

6. The bridge is said to have an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ feel to it, due to its two towers being much taller than the rest of the bridge structure, giving it a surreal look from certain angles.

7. It took 8 years to complete the construction and was designed by a father and son-in-law architectural team, Horace Jones and John Wolfe Barry.

8. The bridge took inspiration from a tennis racket design, which would ensure an aesthetically pleasing effect with the curvature.

9. Since 1982, the bridge has opened more than 39,000 times, transporting about 40,000 motorists daily across the Thames.

10. In 1982 the bridge was opened to the public, allowing foot travelers across the bridge free of charge.

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History & Information About Tower Bridge, London

Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and a symbol of the British capital. Located between the Tower of London and London Bridge, it was built in 1894 as a bascule bridge, which is a type of drawbridge. The bridge has two towers, one each on the north and south banks of the River Thames, aligned with the Tower of London and the Tower Hill. Connected by two suspended walkways and two horizontal spans, the bridge crosses the river in a single span of 244 metres (800 feet).

Construction of Tower Bridge began in 1886 and was completed in 1894 at a cost of £1.2 million. Designed by Sir Horace Jones and Sir John Wolfe Barry and funded by the City of London, Tower Bridge was the first bridge in Britain to be enhanced with aesthetic components. The permanent installation made from Cornish granite and Portland stone has four corner towers with two matched sets of bascules in the middle, which are raised to allow tall ships to pass through.

Today, Tower Bridge is a Grade I-listed building, and a tourist attraction in its own right. It boasts a glass-floored walkway 42 metres (138 feet) above the River Thames, offering tourists a breathtaking view of the Thames below. It also contains a Victorian engine room which houses two massive steam-driven Derham and Hornsby engines, which powered the bridge bascules until the late 1970s. The bridge has become a popular spot for marriage proposals, and is lit up in different colours every night.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Tower Bridge, London

Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for any traveler. Here is what you need to know if you’re planning a visit.

1. Where to Find It: Tower Bridge is located on the River Thames in East London, close to London Bridge and the famous Tower of London.

2. Opening Times: Tower Bridge is usually open every day from 9am to 6pm, with last admission at 5.30pm. During the summer months, (June to August) the bridge is open until 9pm, with last admission at 8.30pm.

3. Ticket Prices: General admission to Tower Bridge is £9.80 for adults and £3.90 for children. It is free for children under five years of age.

4. What to See: Visitors to Tower Bridge can wander through the Victorian engine rooms, marvel at the iconic views from the high-level Walkways, and explore the many other attractions such as the Glass Floor and the interactive exhibition.

5. Nearby Attractions: Tower Bridge is walking distance from many of London’s other iconic attractions, such as the Tower of London, Borough Market, and the Tate Modern.

6. How to Get There: Tower Bridge can be easily reached by public transport, with the closest Underground/DLR station located at Tower Hill. There are also several bus routes that travel to and from the attraction.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Tower Bridge, London

Q: Where is Tower Bridge located?
A: Tower Bridge is located in London, England located about half a mile downstream from the London Tower.

Q: What year was Tower Bridge completed?
A: Tower Bridge was completed in 1894.

Q: How long is Tower Bridge?
A: Tower Bridge is 244m long and it comprises two towers each of 65m height.

Q: Can the bridge be crossed by vehicles?
A: Yes, the access to Tower Bridge has been widened in recent years to enable two-way traffic of cars and taxis, and the bridge remains available to foot traffic all year.

Q: Is Tower Bridge free to visit?
A: Yes, Tower Bridge is free to visit, however admission must be purchased to go to the Tower Bridge Exhibition or visit the Tower Bridge Walkways and River Cruise Experience.

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