Tower Bridge

London was still a thriving port when the Tower Bridge was built in 1894. It was designed to raise allowing ships to pass through with steam engines that were originally used and are still located there today. It is one of London's most famous landmarks crossing the River Thames. The northern tower can be reached by a lift providing the ultimate Tower Bridge Experience where the story of its building is recounted with videos and animatronics and a fabulous view of London can be found.

Tower Bridge is located next to the Tower of London. The Tower of London is one of the most essential sights in London, and despite the heaving crowds is a gruesome insight into a fascinating history. As one of the city's three World Heritage Sites is boasts over two million visitors each year and is busy throughout the year.

Take the free and tremendously entertaining guided tour with one of the Beefeaters, these servicemen are officially known as Yeoman Warders but received the nickname of Beefeaters in the 17th century when they were given rations of beef. Tours commence every half an hour from the Middle Tower between 9am and 3pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am Sunday and last for approximately 1 hour.

In the early middle Ages, the tower was used as royal residence as well as a treasury, a mint, an arsenal and a prison. Henry VIII moved to Whitehall Palace in 1529 and started dispensing his preferred brand of punishment in the Tower. The huge White Tower is the most striking building in the tower located in the centre of the courtyard, with four turrets and solid Romanesque architecture, it was whitewashed during Henry Ill's reign giving its name and now houses a Royal Armouries collection.
On the 2nd floor is the oldest church in London dating from 1080. On the small green in front of the church is where seven people were beheaded including Anne Boleyn the second wife of Henry VIII.

Tourist Information: www.towerbridge.org.uk