What Is the Difference Between London Bridge and Tower Bridge?

By Anna Duncan

If you’ve ever been to London or seen pictures of the city, you may have noticed two iconic bridges that stand out: London Bridge and Tower Bridge. Despite their close proximity and similar names, these two landmarks are actually quite different. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between London Bridge and Tower Bridge.

The History of London Bridge

Firstly, it’s important to note that the current London Bridge is not the original bridge that spanned the River Thames. The original bridge was built by the Romans in 50 AD and was made of wood. Over the centuries, various versions of the bridge were built and destroyed until the current one was completed in 1973.

While London Bridge may not be as visually impressive as Tower Bridge, it has a rich history. The bridge has been an important transport route between north and south London for centuries, and it played a key role in trade and commerce during medieval times.

The Design of Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge, on the other hand, is a much more recent addition to London’s skyline. It was completed in 1894 and was designed specifically to accommodate the increasing volume of shipping traffic along the River Thames.

Tower Bridge is perhaps best known for its distinctive design, which features two towers that are connected by two walkways. The bridge is also notable for its bascule design – this means that it can be raised to allow tall ships to pass through.

Location

One of the most obvious differences between these two bridges is their location. While both bridges span the River Thames in central London, they are located several hundred meters apart from each other.

London Bridge connects the City of London on the north bank of the river with Southwark on the south bank. It’s located just upstream from where Tower Bridge stands.

Tower Bridge, on the other hand, is located further east and connects the boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Southwark. It’s situated close to the Tower of London, which is where it gets its name.

Conclusion

In summary, while London Bridge and Tower Bridge may share a similar name and location, they are very different landmarks. London Bridge has a rich history and has played an important role in the city’s development over the centuries. Tower Bridge, on the other hand, is a much more recent addition to London’s skyline and is known for its distinctive design.

Whether you’re a tourist visiting London for the first time or a local resident, both of these bridges are worth seeing up close. So next time you’re in London, be sure to take some time to appreciate these two iconic landmarks!