Tower Bridge Exhibition

Despite its aged appearance, with its great fairytale turrets, London's iconic bridge isn't all that old. It was built in 1894 in a carefully contrived medieval style, so as to be in keeping with the nearby Tower of London. And you won't be surprised to hear that what is today a beloved and iconic monument was -- as is so often the case -- pretty unpopular when first unveiled.

It's a low bridge equipped with two mighty 1,000-tonne (1,100 U.S.-ton) decks, technically known as bascules, which raise to let ships pass below. This happens around 900 times year. A board next to the bridge announces the time of the next opening and you can also find out on the website.

Now electric, the bridge's lifting mechanism was once powered by hulking great steam hydraulic machinery, which you can view at the bridge's on-site museum, the Tower Bridge Exhibition. This also has a display on the history of the bridge and best of all, provides access to the west walkway along the top of the bridge, providing views up and down the Thames.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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