Backpackers Guide to London
Tower Bridge
Backpackers' Guide to London's Tourist Information | Backpackers' Guide to London Tourist Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to London's Historical Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to Shopping in London | Backpackers' Guide to Sport in London | Backpackers' Guide to Entertainment in London | Backpackers' Guide to Food in London | Backpackers' Guide to London Museums The Tower Bridge of London is a bascule (or draw) bridge that crosses the River Thames. Often mistaken for the London Bridge, which is further upstream, the Tower Bridge gets its name from The Tower of London, which stands in the nearby distance. Designed by Sir Horace Jones and opened for full operation in 1894, the Tower Bridge is definitely one of the most popular and most visited bridges all over the world, and in history. During the time of its early operations, boat traffic along the River Thames was very high due to the river’s being a main thoroughfare for trade in London. Because of this, the bridge had to be made in such a way that it would allow tall ships to pass underneath without having to build it so high above the water. The architectural genius of Sir Horace Jones gave birth to the idea of making it a bascule bridge. The center of the bridge is composed of twin bascules that could be raised when a tall ship was to pass and lowered again after the ship had passed. To this day, the same operation is still being used, though scheduled quite a few times in a week. It is still a delightful sight to behold. This historic landmark also offers a fantastic view over the Tower of London after which it was named. In addition, a wonderful melee of river life on the Thames can also be appreciated while walking across the bridge. What’s great is that tourists can get on the bridge from the North Tower and cross the river up to the South Tower through an enclosed walkway, thus protecting them from the heat and other elements. At The Tower Bridge Experience, an astonishing display of Tower Bridge machinery and other exhibits can be beheld. Admission rates to the Tower Bridge vary from three pounds for students with a valid ID, to five-fifty for adults. Various group packages are also available. The Tower Bridge is open 9:30am to 6pm daily from November to March, and 10am-6.30pm daily from April to October.
Introduction
History
Features
Ashlee House, 261-265 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8QT, England
Tel: +44 (0)20 7833 9400 Fax: +44 (0)20 7833 9677
