If you’re planning a trip to London, you might be wondering what’s the difference between London Bridge and Tower Bridge. While both bridges are iconic structures in the city, each has its own unique history and characteristics.
The History of London Bridge
London Bridge has a long and storied history dating back to Roman times. The first bridge was built in AD 50, but it was destroyed by a Viking invasion in the 11th century. Over the years, several bridges were built and destroyed until the current bridge was completed in 1973.
Fun Fact: The current London Bridge was actually shipped over from the United States! The bridge was purchased by an American businessman who thought he had bought Tower Bridge instead.
The Design of London Bridge
Unlike Tower Bridge, which is known for its distinctive towers and suspension system, London Bridge is a more simple design. It consists of five steel arches that span the River Thames.
The History of Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, on the other hand, was built much later than London Bridge. Construction began in 1886 and was completed in 1894. The bridge was designed to allow ships to pass through while still maintaining road traffic across the river.
Fun Fact: Tower Bridge is often mistakenly referred to as “London Bridge” by tourists!
The Design of Tower Bridge
As mentioned earlier, Tower Bridge is known for its two distinctive towers that are connected by walkways. The bridge also features a suspension system that allows it to be raised to allow ships to pass underneath.
- The bridge is made up of over 11,000 tons of steel.
- It takes about five minutes for the bridge to be raised or lowered.
- Tower Bridge is now one of the top tourist attractions in London.
Conclusion
In summary, while both London Bridge and Tower Bridge are important landmarks in London, they have very different histories and designs. London Bridge is a more simple steel arch bridge with a long history dating back to Roman times, while Tower Bridge is a more modern suspension bridge known for its distinctive towers and ability to be raised to allow ships to pass underneath. So if you’re planning a trip to London, be sure to visit both bridges and appreciate their unique qualities!