Tower Bridge was built between 1886 and 1894. It was combination of bascule and suspension bridge, the most sophisticated bascule bridge of its day. There were high level walkways to allow pedestrians to cross even when the lower deck was raised.
The bridge is still open to pedestrians and traffic at its lower level, but the upper walkways were closed in 1910 due to lack of use.
Streetlights inside Tower Bridge, London, January 2020
The towers and covered upper walkways were opened to the public in 1982 to show a public exhibition, and it was enhanced with glass floors in the two walkways in 2014. A visit to the bridge is well worth an hour or two: you’ll learn more about its structure and history, enjoy the views and get to visit the engine room.
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Copyright Debbie Smyth, 15 January 2020
Posted as part of January Squares
Travel with Intent 
Bascule? Must look that up
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Un peu de français! It’s a bridge with swinging / rocking bit 🙂
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Ah, OK!!
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I must have first visited in 1983, I know it was very soon after it had re-opened! Your internal streetlights are fabulous
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Thanks Becky – they made me think square as soon as I saw them!
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Enlightening Debbie 🙂
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Ooh, is that a word for the challenge, Brian? 🙂 🙂
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I didn’t think of that Jo 🙂 I am a genius 😀 😀
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I think you’ve convinced me to bring Grandson here when I’m on Granny Duty at half term.
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Oooh,we must meet!!!
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Yes please! Feb. Half term …
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And when in February is that?
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It’s 17th – 21st Feb. I haven’t quite sorted things yet (aka I haven’t done a thing)
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I’m sure he’ll enjoy it. The glass floor is a delight for the kids, and the engine room is fascinating. If you go to the website they tell the times for the opening of the bascule. If you time it right (and have luck on your side re the crowds) you can see it open below your feet
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