Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge over the River Thames in London. It was built between 1886 and 1894 to ease road traffic while maintaining river access to the Pool of London. The bridge is adjacent to the Tower of London, from which it takes its name, and has become an iconic symbol of the city. Its distinctive Victorian Gothic style and twin towers are recognized worldwide.

History

By the late 19th century, commercial development in the East End had created a need for a new river crossing downstream of London Bridge. A traditional fixed bridge was deemed impossible as it would cut off access to the port facilities at St Katharine Docks and the Port of London. A "Special Bridge or Subway Committee" was formed in 1876, chaired by A. J. Altman, to find a solution. After a public design competition in 1884, the design by City Architect Horace Jones, in collaboration with engineer John Wolfe-Barry, was chosen. Construction began in 1886, and the bridge was opened on 30 June 1894 by the Prince of Wales, the future Edward VII, and his wife, Alexandra. The bridge's operation was initially managed by the City of London Corporation.

Design and construction

The bridge's design is a feat of Victorian engineering. The central span between its two towers splits into two equal bascules, or leaves, which can be raised to an angle of 86 degrees to allow river traffic to pass. The two side spans are suspension bridges, with the chains anchored to the abutments and passing over the towers to support the walkways. The towers themselves are constructed from a steel framework, clad in Portland stone and Cornish granite to harmonize with the nearby Tower of London. Major contractors included Sir William Arrol & Co. of Glasgow. The original hydraulic machinery, powered by steam from boilers stored in the south abutment, used pressurised water to operate the massive pumping engines. The high-level walkways, designed for pedestrian use when the bridge was raised, were seldom used and later closed, before being reopened as part of a tourist attraction.

Operation

The bridge is still a busy crossing, used by over 40,000 people daily. River traffic retains the right of way, and the bascules are raised around 800 times a year. The original steam engines were replaced in 1974 by an electro-hydraulic drive system, though the Victorian machinery is preserved and on display. The control room is located in the north tower, and bridge lifts are scheduled in advance, though requests can be made to Port of London Authority. The high-level walkways now house the "Tower Bridge Exhibition," offering views of the Thames and the City of London skyline. The bridge's operation is a notable event, often photographed against the backdrop of landmarks like The Shard and HMS Belfast.

In popular culture

Tower Bridge has featured prominently in numerous films and media, cementing its status as a global icon. It has been depicted in disaster scenarios, such as in the film Thunderbirds Are Go and The Mummy Returns, and is often used to establish a London setting in movies like Sherlock Holmes. It appeared in the opening ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympics and has been referenced in music by artists including The Kinks and Iron Maiden. The bridge is also a common backdrop for major public events and celebrations in the capital.

Gallery

File:Tower Bridge raised.jpg|The bascules raised for a ship to pass. File:Tower Bridge from the air.jpg|An aerial view showing its relationship to the Tower of London. File:Tower Bridge Engine Room.jpg|The preserved Victorian steam engines. File:Tower Bridge at night.jpg|The bridge illuminated at night.

Category:Bridges in London Category:Bascule bridges Category:Grade I listed buildings in London