Tower Bridge
About Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of the most recognisable structures in the world — and the Tower Bridge Experience lets you explore it from the inside. Cross the high-level glass walkways 42 metres above the Thames for vertigo-inducing views through the glass floor panels, then descend into the Victorian Engine Rooms to see the massive steam engines that once powered the bridge's famous bascules.
Built between 1886 and 1894, Tower Bridge was an engineering marvel of its age — a working bascule bridge that could raise its roadway to let tall ships pass while maintaining a pedestrian crossing above. The exhibition tells the story of its construction, the workers who built it, and how it operates today. If you time your visit right, you can watch the bridge lift from the glass walkways — an unforgettable sight.
Why you'll love it
- ✓Walk across the glass floor walkways 42 metres above the Thames — look straight down at the river below
- ✓Explore the original Victorian Engine Rooms with their massive steam-powered machinery
- ✓Stunning views up and down the Thames from the high-level walkways
- ✓Watch the bridge lift from above if you time your visit right (check the schedule online)
- ✓One of the most photographed and iconic structures in the world
Good to know
Nearest tube
Tower Hill (5 min walk) / London Bridge (10 min walk)
Duration
Allow 1-1.5 hours
Accessibility
The high-level walkways are accessible by lift. The Victorian Engine Rooms have step-free access. Wheelchair users welcome throughout
Age recommendation
Suitable for all ages. Children under 5 go free
Visitor reviews
Suzanne P.
January 2025
“The glass floor is thrilling — my kids loved it and I was terrified! The views down the Thames are gorgeous. We were lucky enough to see the bridge lift.”
George M.
December 2024
“Fascinating engineering and history. The Victorian Engine Rooms are impressive — hard to believe they built all of that in the 1890s.”
Laura D.
November 2024
“An absolute must-visit. The walkway views are stunning and the glass floor panels give you a brilliant perspective. Very reasonably priced too.”
Frequently asked questions
Can I see the bridge lift?
Yes — bridge lifts happen around 800 times a year. Check the schedule on the Tower Bridge website to plan your visit around a lift. Watching from the glass walkways is spectacular.
Is the glass floor safe?
Absolutely. The glass panels are designed to support far more weight than will ever be placed on them. Each panel weighs over 500kg and is several centimetres thick.
How long does the visit take?
Most visitors spend about 1 hour — 30 minutes on the walkways and 30 minutes in the Engine Rooms. You can take as long as you like.
Is it free to walk across the bridge?
Walking across Tower Bridge at road level is always free. The Tower Bridge Experience (high-level walkways and Engine Rooms) requires a ticket.
Price from
£16
per person
Book NowExperience details
From
£16