Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of London's most famous landmarks. It crosses the River Thames near the Tower of London. The bridge has two tall towers connected by walkways at the top. The middle part of the bridge can open up like a drawbridge to let big ships sail through.

How It Opens

Tower Bridge is a type of bridge called a bascule bridge. The two halves of the road in the middle tilt up like seesaws. Giant engines power the mechanism that raises the bridge. It takes about five minutes for the bridge to fully open and close. The bridge still opens about 800 times a year for passing ships.

Building Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge was built between 1886 and 1894. Over 400 workers helped construct it. The bridge is made of steel covered with stone to match the nearby Tower of London. The high walkways between the towers were built so people could cross even when the bridge was open. Today, the walkways have glass floors so visitors can look straight down at the river.

Fun Facts

• Many people mix up Tower Bridge and London Bridge. London Bridge is a plain, modern bridge nearby.
• The glass walkways are 138 feet above the river. You can watch boats pass below your feet!
• In 1952, a double-decker bus had to jump across the gap when the bridge started opening unexpectedly.

Did You Know?

Tower Bridge originally used steam engines powered by coal to raise and lower the road. Today, it runs on electricity, which is much cleaner and faster.