The most important aspects of London Bridge as well as its illustrious and extensive history can be learned from local guides.
English, Spanish, German, and French are the four languages in which guided tours are offered. This enables guests to learn about London Bridge in a language that they are most familiar with.
All our excursions include skip-the-line entry, allowing you to avoid the crowds.
The tour guides are experienced and know the best times to take you to London Bridge.
London Bridge
Originally known as the London Bridge, this famous landmark crosses over the River Thames in London. It is a popular site for tourists, and is one of the most popular sights in the city. The bridge was built in the 19th century, replacing the medieval version that had been built more than 600 years earlier.
The original London Bridge was built by a man named John Rennie, Jr. in 1824. It was 240-270 meters long, with 19 arches. The structure was made of Haytor granite, a type of granite from the Dartmoor region of Devon. It was also clad in Cornish granite. The bridge had waterwheels to provide power for the waterwheels, and was designed to accommodate a large volume of traffic.
The original bridge had two gatehouses at each end. These were used for guarding the bridge, and to remind citizens that they should obey the laws of the land. They also served as homes for Londoners. The houses were up to seven stories high, and overhung the river by two meters. Many of them burned in the chaos of the "Peasants' Revolt" in the 17th century.
The bridge was also used to defend London during the Great Plague. The plague spread rapidly and a great number of people died. This led to a revolt, known as the "Peasants' Revolt" and the "black death." The revolt, also known as the "Great Revolt," caused tensions in the city. The bridge was a vital commercial crossing.
In the late Middle Ages, many fires occurred on the bridge. Some of the fires were caused by heavy structures, such as watermills, that overhung the road. Some of the fires resulted in the collapse of arches. Other fires resulted in the destruction of the waterwheels. In 1759, the centre arches were replaced with a wider span. This made the bridge safer to pass over. The central span sections are called bascules. The bascules are raised and lowered approximately 1000 times a year.
The new bridge was built in two phases. The first phase was constructed in 1824. The next phase began in 1967. In that year, the Common Council of the City of London wanted to sell the bridge. They thought it was worth $2,460,000. Ivan Luckin, a member of the council, suggested that the bridge be sold.
The new bridge was designed to have the central span raised 83 degrees. It had a bascule chamber where the counterweights swing to operate the bridge. It was also designed to be easier to navigate under the bridge. In addition, the bridge was constructed with a central chapel. It also featured water wheels and a mill. The bridge was designed to make life easier for people in the East End.
In addition to the new bridge, the original bridge was demolished. This caused a great deal of confusion for the City of London. In addition, the waterwheels were destroyed, and the gap on the northern side of the bridge was filled in partially with new houses.
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FAQ
What advantages are there to taking a tour with one of your guides?
At the same time, you'll encounter culture and relaxation. Say goodbye to books where it could be tough to obtain information and the feeling of missing something significant without fully understanding what it was. The fastest admission to museums or monuments will be available to you owing to the badges worn by our guides.
Changing tour options
Any experience can be changed according to its cancellation policy. We may be able to make adjustments to your reservation if the activity permits cancellations.
However, if a reservation cannot be canceled, we will be unable to alter the tour's itinerary.
Your request to change your reservation will be reviewed by our local operator, who has the last say on whether or not your request will be honored. Our ability to meet your needs is uncertain, but rest assured that we will do all in our power to do so.
Which languages do you support at the excursions?
Our tours are offered in multiple languages, so if you're interested in taking one of them but don't speak that language, be sure to schedule it in the language you do. First, open the city's file and use the filter sidebar to choose the language in which you'd like the tour to be given. This will filter the results to only show those in the preferred language.
The guide was really kind and skilled at talking in a way that piqued your interest and kept you focused on the city's attractions! I'd strongly advise it.
This tour is fantastic for everyone
★★★★★
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4.7
We had a great day exploring Madrid. Carlos was very educated and personable, and he told us a lot of amusing stories about the area. Definitely a recommendation!
Fabulous tour
★★★★★
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4.5
Wonderful Alhambra visit with Anna. She was very approachable, knowledgeable, and full of amusing anecdotes.
Great morning
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5
We spent a great day exploring Milan's medieval districts on foot. The tour guide told engaging stories and was well-informed.
Outstanding!
★★★★★
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4.9
We had a wonderful day and are very happy we took the 2-hour guided tour of Paris.
