Tower Bridge

London's Tower Bridge is one of the most recognizable bridges in the world.

The bridge, designed by city architect Horace Jones in collaboration with John Wolfe Barry, would eventually be

completed in 1894. Five contractors and nearly 450 workers were involved in the construction of the 265 meter long bridge. At the time many people disliked its Victorian Gothic design, but over time the bridge became one of London's most famous symbols.

Mechanics

The proximity of the harbor and its location in the direction of the sea required for the bridge to allow the passage of large vessels. Hence the decision to create a

moveable bridge which can be opened to accommodate boat traffic. The mechanism to open the bridge is hidden in the two towers. Until 1976, when the

mechanism became electrified, steam power was used to pump water into hydraulic accumulators which powered the engines.

Each deck is more than 30 meters wide and can be opened to an angle of 83 degrees. When opened the bridge has a clearance of almost 45 meters. It used to open almost fifty times a day but nowadays it is only raised about one thousand

times a year.

Visiting the Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of the best London attractions – no matter if you’re travelling with a loved one, your family or friends. Taking photographs of the Tower Bridge is

a favorite London tourist activity, but you can also go inside the bridge, where you'll see magic view over London from the walkway between the two bridge towers.

Visitors can learn about the history of the bridge via photos, films, and other media. In 2014 glass floors were installed in the walkways, giving visitors another, unusual

view from the bridge. The 11 meter long glass floors, more than 40 meters above the river, allow you to

observe the traffic over the Tower Bridge from above. It is particularly fascinating to see the bridge open and close below your feet.

Venue Hire

Tower Bridge is simply one of the most unique venues in London for private, corporate events and weddings.

The most famous bridge in the world houses three stunning venue areas, each one a unique and memorable setting for celebrations of every kind. The panoramic high-

level Walkways and the majestic Victorian Engine Rooms are available for private evening hire, while the North Tower Lounge is also available for smaller daytime functions. Weddings can be held in the Walkways and the North Tower Lounge.

Rooms for events:

These venues are available for exclusive use once Tower Bridge Exhibition has closed to visitors for the day.What do you have to know if you go there: - Summer Opening Hours: April – September 10:00 – 17:30 (last admission)Winter Opening Hours: October – March 09:30 – 17:00 (last admission)  - What’s on There is plenty to see and do when you step inside the most famous bridge in the world Ther is: 1.Step Inside 5. Engineering Tours 2.Tower Bridge Glass Floor 6. Competitions 3.Yoga On The Glass Floor 4.Art at the Bridge -Access for All Tower Bridge Exhibition is fully accessible.Toilets are available once inside the Exhibition, located in the North and South Towers and in the Engine Rooms, and lifts

taking visitors to all levels in the Towers and the Engine Rooms mean that visitors can enjoy all parts of this iconic landmark can be enjoyed.

Some comments: 1. Thomas Moran: “Interesting video re Queen Victoria et al particularly the animated designs for a new bridge. Great views from the top, especially looking down! As it was a bright day we had good views up and down stream.”2. Christine: “Fantastic tour. The private tour is the best way to go. Private tours lend themselves to a more personal approach and questions can always be asked and answered. The tour was informative and enjoyable. Our guide was knowledgeable and personable.”3.Jack: “The best guide ever. A real pleasure. If you like English history this ones for you. Leaves the rest of the day to wander around the dock side of London. Loved it.” 4.Steve Wherry: “Good exhibiton with right amount of history and information about Tower Bridge. Liked the glass floor! Wish I could have gone down to see the bascules though...”5. Paolo: “The day I went visiting the Tower Bridge was just amazing. Bright sun, blue sky, not a single cloud. I really enjoyed the beautiful view from the tower.”

You can see more at: http://www.towerbridge.org.uk/

By: Ljubica Peric