London Bridge vs Tower Bridge: The Ultimate Guide to London's Iconic Bridges

During a recent trip to London it was apparent most tourists don't know which bridge is London Bridge. London is a city filled with beauty and wonder, and the iconic bridges that cross over the River Thames are no exception. For many tourists, the first bridge that comes to mind when thinking of London is the Tower Bridge. However, there seems to be a widespread misconception that the Tower Bridge and London Bridge are one and the same. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between the two bridges, and why they are both worth seeing during your visit to London.

So, let's start with the basics - London Bridge is NOT the Tower Bridge. London Bridge is actually the oldest bridge in London and is located further upstream from the Tower Bridge. It is a historical piece of architecture that has been standing for over 2,000 years, with various versions being built throughout history. The current iteration of London Bridge was opened in 1973 and is a modernized version of its predecessors.

While London Bridge may not be as visually stunning as its neighbor the Tower Bridge, it has its own historical significance. In fact, the bridge has a fascinating and bloody past. It is said that in the 13th century, the heads of traitors were displayed on spikes along the bridge as a warning to potential rebels. Today, visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy the views of the city.

Now onto the Tower Bridge - arguably the more photogenic of the two. Its striking profile, with its two towering pinnacles and walkways, make it a favorite spot for photographers and tourists alike. Its Victorian Gothic architecture is reminiscent of another iconic British landmark, Westminster Abbey. The bridge was completed in 1894 and is recognized worldwide as a symbol of London.

One of the unique features of the Tower Bridge is its glass floor walkway, which offers visitors a unique view of the river below. It is also possible to take a tour of the bridge's engine rooms and Victorian machinery, where you can learn about how the bridge was built and operated in the past.

While both bridges are impressive in their own right, it's important to note that they are located several blocks apart. If one is expecting Tower Bridge to lead them to the famous London Bridge, they may be in for a bit of a shock. That being said, both bridges are definitely worth visiting during your time in London - just be sure to get your bearings straight before you head out!

London is a city filled with history and iconic landmarks, and the bridges that span the River Thames are no exception. While London Bridge and Tower Bridge may look similar at first glance, they each have distinct features and historical significance that set them apart. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just a curious traveler, a visit to both bridges is sure to leave you in awe of the beauty and grandeur of this incredible city.