Although many Americans think this iconic bridge is called London Bridge, it’s actually called Tower Bridge – and is just upstream from its famous and historic neighbor, the architecturally bland London Bridge. Tower Bridge opened to the public in 1894; as a bascule bridge its central span lifts open to allow tall ships to pass, while its twin upper walkways allow sightseers like us to enjoy expansive views of the river and the city. Today we took the opportunity to visit. On this rainy winter weekday, there were few other visitors so we almost had the place to ourselves as we climbed the tower, walked across the high pedestrian bridges, and then down into the depths to view the historic coal-powered engine rooms.
From the middle of the walkway you get an expansive view of central London, with the Shard at left and the central business district at right.
You can also look down, through a section of glass floor, at the roadway and river below. It takes a moment to gather your wits before stepping on glass!
Back on Christmas Eve, we walked across the bridge at road level, and found it to be even more beautiful at night.
Interestingly, the bridge opens several times per day (an average of 800 times per year; the record is 64 lifts in one day). By act of Parliament, river traffic has priority over road traffic, and river boats pay no fee for passage. In October we had the good fortune to watch the bridge lift as we boated underneath, twice in one day, when we visited Greenwich.
Check out my photo gallery for more! The official Tower Bridge website is also very informative, with lots of information about its operation and history.
David Kotz 