London Bridge
A functional bridge and its iconic neighbor, offering stunning views and a gateway to London's historic riverside.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
London Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A functional bridge and its iconic neighbor, offering stunning views and a gateway to London's historic riverside.
"Experience the magic of London's bridges from the river or the thrilling heights of Tower Bridge's walkways."
📸 Unobstructed Tower Bridge Pics
Head to Shad Thames for the best, crowd-free photos of Tower Bridge.
💰 Budget London Tour
Use buses like the 9 and 11 for a cheap tour of London's sights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tower Bridge Views
Shad Thames
Capture unobstructed, postcard-perfect photos of Tower Bridge from Shad Thames.
Glass Floor Walkways
Tower Bridge Exhibition
Experience a thrilling walk across transparent glass floors high above the River Thames.
Uber Boat Journey
River Thames
Enjoy a scenic and affordable ride along the Thames, passing under Tower Bridge.
Planning Your Visit
Distinguishing London Bridge from Tower Bridge
Navigating the Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Unobstructed Tower Bridge Pics
Head to Shad Thames for the best, crowd-free photos of Tower Bridge.
💰 Budget London Tour
Use buses like the 9 and 11 for a cheap tour of London's sights.
🚶♀️ Walkable City
Many major landmarks are walkable from each other; consider walking instead of hopping on/off buses.
🚢 Thames Clipper Ride
Take the Thames Clipper for great views of Tower Bridge and the city skyline.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Unobstructed Tower Bridge Pics
Head to Shad Thames for the best, crowd-free photos of Tower Bridge.
💰 Budget London Tour
Use buses like the 9 and 11 for a cheap tour of London's sights.
🚶♀️ Walkable City
Many major landmarks are walkable from each other; consider walking instead of hopping on/off buses.
🚢 Thames Clipper Ride
Take the Thames Clipper for great views of Tower Bridge and the city skyline.
💎 Glass Floor Thrills
Don't miss the transparent walkways at Tower Bridge for a unique perspective.
☕ Explore Bermondsey Street
Discover charming cafes and shops on Bermondsey Street near London Bridge.
📸 Photographer's Tip
A photographer on the bridge offers prints with a London headline; donations appreciated.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the iconic views of Tower Bridge and the unique experience of its glass walkways. The surrounding area offers a vibrant mix of dining and exploration. However, some find London Bridge itself less visually impressive than its famous neighbor, and crowds can be a factor during peak times.
"London Bridge is a historic and important landmark with a fascinating past. While not as ornate as Tower Bridge, it offers great views of the Thames and the city skyline. The nearby shops and restaurants add to the lively atmosphere, making it a nice spot to explore."
Deepak Panchal
"London Bridge is a fascinating blend of history and modernity that every traveler should experience! The iconic structure is not only a vital connection across the River Thames but also a significant landmark with a rich history dating back centuries.
Walking across the bridge offers stunning views of the river and the vibrant city skyline, including spectacular sights like the Shard and Tower Bridge nearby. The area around London Bridge is bustling with activity, featuring charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a drink with a view.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby attractions, such as Borough Market, which offers delicious food options and a lively atmosphere. The combination of historical charm and contemporary flair truly captures the essence of London.
Overall, visiting London Bridge is a delightful experience that perfectly encapsulates the city’s spirit, making it a must-see for anyone touring London!"
Liz Ann N
"Stunning views from London Bridge, and around the bridge.
Nice walk along the River Thames.
Lots of restaurants, cafes, shops, etc there.
Many people get confused between London Bridge, Tower Bridge, and Tower of London.
Don't forget to bring sunglasses or a hat and maybe an umbrella in the Summer."
Marta D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
London Bridge is well-connected by public transport. The London Underground station 'London Bridge' serves the Jubilee and Northern lines. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby, including the popular 9 and 11 for a scenic tour.
Yes, the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers stops at London Bridge City Pier, offering a fantastic way to arrive and see the city from the river.
For iconic views, consider a Thames Clipper journey from Canary Wharf to Millbank, passing under Tower Bridge. Alternatively, walking along the South Bank provides excellent vantage points.
Yes, hop-on-hop-off buses do pass by London Bridge and other major landmarks, but many travelers find walking or using regular public transport more efficient and enjoyable. +1
Absolutely! London Bridge is a great starting point for a walk. You can easily reach Borough Market, and with a longer stroll, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and even further to Westminster.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
London Bridge itself is a public thoroughfare and free to cross. However, if you wish to visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which includes the glass walkways, you will need to purchase tickets.
Admission to the Tower Bridge Exhibition typically costs around £12.30 for adults, which is considered good value by many visitors.
The Tower Bridge Exhibition is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check the official Tower Bridge website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Yes, booking your tickets for the Tower Bridge Exhibition online in advance is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons.
No, walking across London Bridge is free as it's a public road and pedestrian bridge. The 'attraction' is the bridge itself and the views it offers.
📸 📸 Photography
For unobstructed views and the best photos of Tower Bridge, head to Shad Thames. Walk towards it and climb the old stairs on your left for a fantastic, crowd-free perspective.
Yes, the Tower Bridge Exhibition allows you to take photos from the high-level walkways, including the glass floor sections, offering unique city panoramas.
While not official, some street photographers operate on or near London Bridge, offering to take and print your photos with a London-themed headline. Donations are appreciated.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. Evenings are also magical with the city lights reflecting on the river and bridges.
Drone usage is generally restricted in central London, especially near landmarks and busy areas. It's advisable to check current regulations with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area around London Bridge is a foodie paradise. Highly recommended spots include Rambutan for Sri Lankan, Flour and Grape or Padella for pasta, and Santo Remedio for Mexican.
Yes, Watch House and White Mulberries are excellent choices for coffee lovers in the London Bridge vicinity.
Borough Market, a short walk from London Bridge, offers an incredible array of street food, artisanal products, and fresh produce from around the world. It's a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Kolae is a highly-rated Thai restaurant near London Bridge, known for its authentic flavors.
For a more local pub experience away from tourists, try pubs on Union Street, The Royal Oak, or Simon the Tanner.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring the area, keep in mind that London Bridge itself is a busy thoroughfare. For a more relaxed experience, focus on the South Bank or explore the delights of Borough Market, which offers a vast array of food options that usually appeal to younger palates.
💰 Budget Travelers
The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is another excellent value option. While not as expensive as dedicated tourist cruises, it provides fantastic views of Tower Bridge from the river.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon for warm, flattering light, or in the evening when the bridges and surrounding buildings are beautifully illuminated.
While official photographers may be present, some street photographers also offer their services near the bridge, providing unique prints. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding London Bridge vs. Tower Bridge
In contrast, Tower Bridge is the iconic, Victorian-era bascule and suspension bridge that most people picture when thinking of a 'London bridge'. It features two towers connected by high-level walkways and is a major tourist attraction in its own right. Understanding this difference will help you plan your visit and avoid disappointment.
When planning your visit, decide which bridge you want to experience. If you're seeking architectural grandeur and panoramic views, Tower Bridge is your destination. If you're interested in the historical significance of the area and its transport links, London Bridge station and its vicinity are key.
Experiencing the Bridges by River
This method is not only scenic but also practical, especially if you're trying to cover multiple landmarks. Many travelers recommend taking the boat from areas like Canary Wharf towards Westminster, ensuring you get excellent, unobstructed views of Tower Bridge. It's often cited as a more engaging and cost-effective alternative to some traditional bus tours.
For those interested in a dedicated river cruise, several companies operate tours that highlight the bridges and other riverside attractions. These cruises often provide commentary, enriching the experience with historical context. Regardless of the specific service chosen, experiencing London's bridges from the water is a highly recommended activity for its unique vantage point and convenience.
Photography Tips for Tower Bridge
For a more adventurous perspective, consider visiting the Tower Bridge Exhibition. Here, you can ascend to the high-level walkways, which include transparent glass floors. This offers a thrilling, bird's-eye view of the river and the bridge's mechanics below, providing unique photographic opportunities.
When visiting, consider the time of day. Golden hour in the late afternoon casts a warm glow over the bridge, while evening brings the magic of the city lights. Some street photographers also operate near the bridge, offering prints with a London theme, though donations are encouraged.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit