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Spectacular Views of London from the Iconic Tower Bridge
Published by Veronica Litt, Writer
Country: United Kingdom 
The Experience
London’s Tower Bridge is one of the city of London’s most famous landmark attractions, and is a national symbol that makes you think of the splendours and history of London just from the sight of it. The iconic status of London’s Tower Bridge has seen it featured in several films and television series, including the critically lauded Spice World, the recent remake of Sherlock Holmes, and, lest we forget, the most British of all TV “programmes”: Doctor Who.
Tower Bridge opened to the public after eight years of construction in 1894, and quickly became a public icon. However, in order to become the bridge it is today, several changes had to occur, both on the interior and exterior. During World War II, a third steam engine was added to the two impressive hydraulic systems already at work. Tower Bridge was then converted to run on electricity, although the original systems are preserved. On the outside, a change of architect resulted in Tower Bridge going from a red brick design to a brown one, which was eventually also changed with a refreshing paint job in 1977 to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. Eventually, Tower Bridge went from its older brown hue to the patriotic colours of red, white and blue. Currently, Tower Bridge is decked out in blues, grays and whites; and, thanks to an ongoing facelift, is now much better lit at nighttime.
Aside from its pleasant appearance, Tower Bridge is also a gateway to many others London attractions. It is snugly situated on the River Thames and offers views to many other London favourites, such as London City Hall, the Tower of London, and the Gherkin. These sites are easily seen—even on a classically British rainy day—by entering the Viewing Gallery situated 45 meters above the River. Inside the warm-windowed gallery, tourists are free to enjoy the sights without the wind or rain.
Tower Bridge is a beautiful landmark, an easy way to see some of London’s sights, and an architectural feat. In short, Tower Bridge is simply a must-see for anyone going to England’s bustling capital city.
Tower Bridge opened to the public after eight years of construction in 1894, and quickly became a public icon. However, in order to become the bridge it is today, several changes had to occur, both on the interior and exterior. During World War II, a third steam engine was added to the two impressive hydraulic systems already at work. Tower Bridge was then converted to run on electricity, although the original systems are preserved. On the outside, a change of architect resulted in Tower Bridge going from a red brick design to a brown one, which was eventually also changed with a refreshing paint job in 1977 to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. Eventually, Tower Bridge went from its older brown hue to the patriotic colours of red, white and blue. Currently, Tower Bridge is decked out in blues, grays and whites; and, thanks to an ongoing facelift, is now much better lit at nighttime.
Aside from its pleasant appearance, Tower Bridge is also a gateway to many others London attractions. It is snugly situated on the River Thames and offers views to many other London favourites, such as London City Hall, the Tower of London, and the Gherkin. These sites are easily seen—even on a classically British rainy day—by entering the Viewing Gallery situated 45 meters above the River. Inside the warm-windowed gallery, tourists are free to enjoy the sights without the wind or rain.
Tower Bridge is a beautiful landmark, an easy way to see some of London’s sights, and an architectural feat. In short, Tower Bridge is simply a must-see for anyone going to England’s bustling capital city.
When to Go to Tower Bridge
If you want a less crowded visit, you should visit Tower Bridge during off season from October to April. If you're keen for nicer weather, May to September is for you. London is equally stunning in both summer and winter. The important thing is to remember to pack appropriate clothing and an umbrella regardless of the season.
Odds n' Ends
There is a special Tower Bridge Exhibition that began running in April 2010. The exhibit costs about £6 per person and is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. The Tower Bridge exhibition allows viewers to see the original engines and explore the history, architecture, and various stories associated with the structure. It will run until March 31, 2011.
Tower Bridge is also located right in the heart of Central London. It is a great place to stop on the way to various other attractions, like the Tower of London, the Gherkin, or the Tate Modern.
Tower Bridge is also located right in the heart of Central London. It is a great place to stop on the way to various other attractions, like the Tower of London, the Gherkin, or the Tate Modern.
Want a Guide?
- The Big Bus Tour
- The Big Bus Tour is a well known company that will take you out and about London on a signature double decker maroon bus. The tour guides are both informative and funny, and the view from the roof of the bus in unbeatable, so be sure to bring a camera. The Big Bus company operates on the Hop On/Hop Off system, wherein you can hop off the bus at any of the scheduled stops, take your time investigating the attraction, and then catch another bus from the company after you have finished. The buses can be different, but must belong to the company and must go along the same route as the one you began with. The system is convenient and easily done with a map in hand. It is a great way to see and get an overall feel for the city. An added bonus is that the Big Bus Tour includes a Thames River Cruise in the cost of your bus ticket. Be sure to take the cruise as it is absolutely divine.
Places to Eat
- Pret a Manger
- Pret a Manger is one of the most popular places for food in London. The eateries are abundant in number, but also in selection. The idea behind Pret was to create a healthy, natural alternative to the fast food industry. Pret a Manger is stocked with fresh sandwiches filled with everything from smoked salmon to turkey to avocado, delicious fruit bars made with only natural ingredients, and truly great coffee. It is a convenient stop for inexpensive, nutritious, tasty food.
- Zizzi St Katherine Dock
- Zizzi is a small but trendy chain of restaurants, with one location near Tower Bridge. Zizzi specializes in Italian foods so expect pasta, pizza, and gelato. The interior is modern and stunning, the pizza is made from a wood burning oven (delicious), and the atmosphere is relaxed. Zizzi is an excellent place to enjoy a lunch or dinner before going to another of London's sights.
Recommended Places to Stay
- Premier Inn London Tower Bridge
- I can recommend this inn with ease. Their beds were incredibly comfy, it's fairly affordable, and the rooms come fully stocked with complimentary items like biscuits and tea. The front desk staff were fabulous: informative and helpful at every turn. The hotel chain is reliably good and I would certainly stay there again. A big plus to this location is that it is located only a five minute walk away from Tower Bridge!
Additional Places to Stay Nearby
Search over 900,000 global hotel deals from over 30 merchants. Book via Expedia, Travelocity, Hotels.com, Booking.com, Priceline and the websites of popular hotel chains.
Set against the backdrop of one of London*s best known historical landmarks Hilton Tower Bridge is a modern and contemporary hotel with a striking exterior ... 0 miles away
$63 GBP+
Tower View is situated on Byward Street in the City of London. The premier building overlooks both the Tower of London and Tower Bridge on ... 0 miles away
$84 GBP+
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More Experiences Nearby
- Enjoy Radical Ingenuity at London's Tate Modern Museum
- London is a long-standing magnet for talented artists from around Europe and further afield; and the city's Tate Modern is consistently voted among the continent's top modern art galleries. Innovatively housed in the former Bankside Power Station, located along the River Thames' South Bank district, the Tate Modern provides a cavernous, dynamic space for international modern and contemporary exhibitions. The Tate Modern is ideally placed for anyone staying in the old town district (known as the City of London area) where you'll find St Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye and London Bridge. Just take a stroll across the Millennium Bridge ...1 miles away.
While You're There - Tours and Trips Nearby
Windsor Castle Your tour starts at the home of the Royal Family for 900 years, and the world's largest and oldest occupied castle. Windsor Castle's ...2.21 miles away via London.
$88+
Stonehenge - Private Viewing Most visitors to Stonehenge are not allowed direct access to the stones. On this special tour, you'll be invited to enter ...2.21 miles away via London.
$111+
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Carpe Diem! Book to do this experience now!
Explore all sides of the city as you take advantage of tours, cruises and walks included on the London Sightseeing Pass. With special discounts at ...
Starting from $47.95 per person.
Starting from $47.95 per person.
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