Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is a busy and vital crossing of the Thames: it is crossed by over 40,000 people (motorists, cyclists and pedestrians) every day. The most famous bridge in the world also houses four stunning venue areas, each one a unique and memorable setting for celebrations of every kind.

Construction started in 1886 and it took 8 years, 5 major contractors and the relentless labour of 432 construction workers to build Tower Bridge. The bridge is raised around 1000 times a year. River traffic is now much reduced, but it still takes priority over road traffic. Today, 24 hours' notice is required before opening the bridge. In 2008, a local web developer created a Twitter feed to post live updates of the bridge's opening and closing activities.

Tower Bridge is simply one of the most unique venues in London for weddings, private and corporate events. The panoramic high-level Walkways and the majestic Victorian Engine Rooms are available for private evening hire. The Bridge Master's Dining Room and the North Tower Lounge are also available for evening hire as well as smaller daytime functions and weddings.

In December 1952, the bridge opened while a number 78 double-decker bus was on it. The bus was near the edge of the south bascule when it started to rise; driver Albert Gunter made a split-second decision to accelerate the bus, clearing a three-foot drop on to the north bascule, which had not started to rise. There were no serious injuries.

Tower Bridge Exhibition

Tower Bridge Exhibition, is a must see attraction for any visitor to London. It was started to inform visitors about the building of Tower Bridge, the people involved in its construction and why it was needed. Groups and Tours benefit from a discounted rate reserved especially for groups. Introductory Talks, Private Evening Tours and Behind the Scenes Tours should all be arranged in advance.

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Contact details for the Tower Bridge Exhibition tel: +44 (0) 20 7403 3761 (Lines open 10:00 - 17:30 GMT), fax: +44 (0) 20 7357 7935, Email: [email protected].

Summer Opening Hours April-September 10:00-18:30 (last admission 17:30)

Winter Opening Hours October-March 09:30-18:00 (last admission 17:00)

Tower Bridge Exhibition is closed 24 - 26 December and opens from 12.00 on the 1 January.

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