Step inside a London icon: the Tower Bridge tour
A staple feature on the city’s skyline, Tower Bridge truly is an unmissable sight during any visit to London. Not only can you admire this handsome structure’s striking Victorian-built exterior, but you can also step inside its historic engine rooms and stroll across its high-level walkways.
Whether you want to enjoy spectacular vistas down the Thames or soak up a little history, here’s how to make the most of your time on a London Tower Bridge tour.
What to expect on your Tower Bridge tour
Epic engineering and even more impressive views come to life when you choose to explore this postcard-worthy London structure. Tower Bridge has been a major feature of the River Thames since 1894. Currently Grade II listed, it’s famed for its drawbridge features that allow tall boats to pass between its twin towers.
Not sure what attractions lie within the bridge’s impressive interiors? Here’s what to expect when you visit Tower Bridge on your next London escape:
The Walkways
Ascend 42 metres above the Thames to the bridge’s lofty Walkways. Not just connecting the North and South Towers of the bridge together, they also feature impressive glass floors and panoramic vistas in all directions.
Take your time strolling across both walkways and don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for London landmarks such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard.
The Victorian Engine Rooms
Delve deeper into the past on your tour of Tower Bridge in the Victorian Engine Rooms. These historical steam engines and coal-fired boilers were once used to power the bridge’s bascules: the counterbalanced sections that make up the drawbridge.
The bascules were originally designed to help control traffic along the Thames while still allowing access to taller ships. Today, the drawbridge remains in use – but it’s now operated using more modern electric motors.
As you explore the Engine Rooms, you’ll have the chance to explore interactive exhibits that showcase the bridge’s past and original purpose, plus hear stories from those who once played an important role in its running.
Booking your tour
Like many other iconic landmarks, Tower Bridge is a popular choice for people visiting the capital for a weekend or longer. As with most London attractions, it’s best to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Prices on the Golden Tours site begin at £16 for adults and £8 for kids, although you’ll be able to enjoy discounts on student, senior and family tickets.
Planning your tour of Tower Bridge
Once you’ve got your day picked out and your tickets booked, all that’ll be left to do is plan your journey to the bridge.
Why choose Heathrow Express for your London journey?
While you might have some London attractions already listed on your itinerary, it’s also important to think about your arrival and departure into the Big Smoke.
When it comes to speed, comfort and convenience, it’s hard to beat the Heathrow Express. Our premium airport transfer service takes you seamlessly from Heathrow to London Paddington station in the heart of the city in just 15 minutes – giving you more time to dedicate to iconic sights like Tower Bridge.