Written by Pippy Oquinn
Modified & Updated: 03 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Tower Bridge, located in the heart of London, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Its distinctive design and rich history make it a must-visit destination for tourists from around the world. Standing over the River Thames, this magnificent suspension bridge has witnessed countless significant events and has become a symbol of London’s architectural brilliance.
But did you know that Tower Bridge is more than just a bridge? It holds many astonishing facts and fascinating stories that add to its allure. From its unique construction to its role in British royal ceremonies, Tower Bridge is truly a marvel worth exploring.
In this article, we will uncover nine astonishing facts about Tower Bridge that will take you on a journey of discovery and showcase the bridge’s significant contributions to London’s cultural heritage. So, let’s delve into the captivating world of Tower Bridge and get ready to be amazed by these hidden gems!
Key Takeaways:
- Tower Bridge is not London Bridge. It’s a stunning Victorian suspension bridge, not a simple stone one. It’s a symbol of London and the UK.
- Tower Bridge took 8 years to build, with over 11,000 tons of steel. It has a glass walkway, a fascinating exhibition, and is a popular filming location.
Tower Bridge is not London Bridge
Contrary to popular belief, Tower Bridge is often mistaken for London Bridge. However, these two iconic landmarks in London are actually different structures. London Bridge is a simple stone bridge, while Tower Bridge is a magnificent Victorian suspension bridge with its distinctive towers and a bascule bridge.
The construction of Tower Bridge took eight years
Building Tower Bridge was a massive undertaking that spanned eight years. Construction began in 1886 and was completed in It took a team of over 5,000 workers to construct the bridge.
The bridge is made of over 11,000 tons of steel
Tower Bridge is a marvel of engineering, with its framework made up of over 11,000 tons of steel. The steel was sourced from various parts of the United Kingdom, including Scotland and Wales.
It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in London
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and is instantly recognizable across the globe. Its striking design, with two towers and a central bascule bridge, has made it a symbol of both London and the United Kingdom.
The bridge was once raised to let a double-decker bus pass through
In 1952, during a test conducted by the British Transporter and Bridge Authority, a double-decker bus successfully crossed Tower Bridge while it was raised. This was to prove that the bridge could accommodate the height of the bus, thus dispelling concerns of its structural integrity.
Tower Bridge has a walkway with a glass floor
Visitors to Tower Bridge can experience the breathtaking view by walking across the high-level walkway. What makes it even more thrilling is the presence of a glass floor, allowing visitors to see the traffic passing underneath their feet.
The bridge has a fascinating exhibition inside
Inside Tower Bridge, there is a fascinating exhibition that showcases its history, engineering, and the stories behind its construction. Visitors can explore the exhibition to learn more about the bridge’s significance and admire the architectural marvel.
Tower Bridge has featured in numerous films and TV shows
Thanks to its iconic status, Tower Bridge has been a popular filming location. It has appeared in various movies and TV shows, including the James Bond film “Skyfall” and the popular TV series “Sherlock.
The bridge is illuminated with stunning lights at night
Tower Bridge becomes even more enchanting at night when it is illuminated with thousands of LED lights. The colorful lights give the bridge a breathtaking appearance and create a stunning backdrop for nighttime walks along the River Thames.
These 9 astonishing facts about Tower Bridge highlight its historical significance, architectural brilliance, and cultural impact. The bridge continues to captivate locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into London’s rich heritage and engineering prowess.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tower Bridge is an architectural marvel and a true icon of London. Its fascinating history, impressive dimensions, and intricate mechanisms make it a must-visit landmark for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re interested in its engineering brilliance, want to experience the breathtaking views from the high-level walkways, or simply want to immerse yourself in London’s rich history, Tower Bridge has something to offer everyone.
Make sure to add Tower Bridge to your itinerary the next time you’re in London, and prepare to be amazed by its beauty and grandeur.
FAQs
Q: How old is Tower Bridge?
A: Tower Bridge was completed in 1894, making it over 125 years old.
Q: Can you walk across Tower Bridge?
A: Yes, you can walk across Tower Bridge. It has high-level walkways that offer stunning panoramic views of London.
Q: How long did it take to build Tower Bridge?
A: Construction of Tower Bridge took around eight years, from 1886 to 1894.
Q: How much weight can Tower Bridge hold?
A: Tower Bridge can support the weight of 40,000 people crossing simultaneously, as well as the weight of vehicles passing over it.
Q: Does Tower Bridge open for river traffic?
A: Yes, Tower Bridge opens for river traffic. It opens around 1,000 times per year to allow tall ships, barges, and other vessels to pass through.
Q: Can you visit the engine rooms at Tower Bridge?
A: Yes, visitors can explore the engine rooms, located below the high-level walkways, to learn about the bridge’s hydraulic power system.
Q: Are there any exhibitions or displays inside Tower Bridge?
A: Yes, Tower Bridge has a permanent exhibition that showcases its history and construction. There are also temporary exhibitions and displays that provide additional insights into the bridge’s significance.
Q: How tall is Tower Bridge?
A: The towers of Tower Bridge stand at a height of 65 meters (213 feet).
Q: Can you see the famous Crown Jewels from Tower Bridge?
A: No, the Crown Jewels are not visible from Tower Bridge. They are housed in the Tower of London, which is located nearby.
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