Construction in the 19th Century
Between 1886 and 1894, the Tower Bridge was built to create a new route across the river in London's East End. The challenge at the time was to create a crossing without disrupting the shipping traffic to the Port of London. Therefore, the decision was made to build a bascule bridge, or drawbridge, which allows ships to pass when needed. At the time, the government insisted on a gothic style to harmonize it with the nearby Palace of Westminster.Sensational Construction Technique
At the time of its opening in the late 19th century, the Tower Bridge was an impressive technical achievement. The 800 ft long suspension and drawbridge originally opened with steam engines, and only in 1974 was it converted to oil hydraulics. The opening of the flaps is still impressive today because of their massive roadways.Tower Bridge as a tourist attraction
Today, the bridge is still constantly used by cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. At the same time, exhibition rooms are also open to tourists, which include the engine rooms and the transition between the two towers. The bridge is also repeatedly at the center of special celebrations, such as the 2012 Summer Olympics or the annual New Year's Eve fireworks.What the exhibition offers
In the permanent exhibition guests learn more not only about the construction but also about the operation and maintenance of the Tower Bridge. The glass pedestrian walkway at 137 ft above the river allows guests to look down on passing ships. Engine rooms that were converted from steam to electric operation in 1976 are also accessible. Additionally, there is a focus on the people whose work is needed to operate the bridge. Another section deals with bridges in other cities, allowing for direct comparison.