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How to get to Tower Bridge in London: A complete guide to directions, transport & parking

Where is Tower Bridge located?

Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom
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Tower Bridge spans the River Thames in central London, linking the boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Southwark. Positioned beside the Tower of London and surrounded by some of the city's most famous landmarks, it is easily accessible from both the City of London and the South Bank.

Closest landmark: Tower of London (approx. 300 meters away)

Getting to Tower Bridge by public transport

  • Travel time: 20–25 minutes from Trafalgar Square
  • Closest station: Tower Hill Station (District & Circle Lines)
  • Timings: First trains generally from 5am; last trains around midnight

Take the Bakerloo Line from Charing Cross or Embankment and change to the District or Circle Line for Tower Hill Station. From the station, it's a straightforward 7-minute walk to the Tower Bridge Exhibition entrance.

Why choose the Tube?

  • Fastest public transport option from central London
  • Frequent services throughout the day
  • Easy walking route from Tower Hill Station
  • Travel time: 15–20 minutes from central London
  • Closest station: London Bridge Station
  • Timings: Services operate from early morning until late evening

National Rail services from across London and southeast England stop at London Bridge Station. From there, walk east along Tooley Street for approximately 12 minutes to reach the South Tower.

Why choose the train?

  • Convenient for visitors arriving from outside central London
  • Direct connections from major railway hubs
  • Good option when travelling with luggage
  • Travel time: 30–45 minutes from Trafalgar Square
  • Closest stop: Tower Bridge / City Hall (Stop L)
  • Timings: Most routes operate from approximately 5am to midnight

Routes 15, 42, 78, 100 and RV1 serve stops near Tower Bridge. Buses stop within a few minutes' walk of both bridge towers and offer a scenic journey through central London.

Why choose the bus?

  • Most budget-friendly motorised transport option
  • Great views of London streets and landmarks
  • Frequent services throughout the day
  • Travel time: 25–30 minutes from Westminster Pier
  • Closest pier: Tower Pier or London Bridge City Pier
  • Timings: Services generally operate from early morning until late evening

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers provides regular services along the River Thames. Both nearby piers are within an 8-minute walk of Tower Bridge.

Why choose the river bus?

  • Excellent views of London's riverside landmarks
  • Avoids road traffic completely
  • Memorable arrival experience

Getting to Tower Bridge by car

Driving route

  • Travel time: 20–35 minutes from Trafalgar Square
  • Distance: Approximately 5km
  • Peak traffic hours: 7:30–10am and 4–7pm

The quickest route usually follows Victoria Embankment and Lower Thames Street toward Tower Hill. Traffic conditions can significantly affect journey times, particularly on weekdays.

Congestion Charge Alert: Tower Bridge lies within London's Congestion Charge Zone and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Charges may apply depending on your vehicle and travel time.

Nearby parking lots

  • Tower Hill Car & Coach Park: Approx. 400m (5-minute walk)
  • The Circle Parking: Approx. 500m (6-minute walk)
  • Minories Car Park: Approx. 650m (8-minute walk)

Visitors are strongly advised to pre-book parking, particularly during weekends and school holidays.

Accessibility

Tower Bridge is fully accessible for wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. Step-free routes are available throughout the exhibition, with lifts connecting all public levels.

  • Public transport: Tower Hill Station offers step-free access via lifts, while many London buses serving the bridge are wheelchair accessible and equipped with ramps.
  • Driving & parking: Blue Badge parking bays are available in surrounding streets and selected nearby car parks.
  • Entrance: The main exhibition entrance includes step-free access and accessible ticketing facilities.

Walking to Tower Bridge

  • Best for: Sightseeing, exercise, and enjoying the riverside views
  • Travel time: Approx. 15–20 min walk from London Bridge
  • Distance: Approx. 2 km

Walking to Tower Bridge is one of the most rewarding ways to arrive. The riverside Thames Path passes famous landmarks including the Tower of London, HMS Belfast, City Hall, and The Shard. A walk from London Bridge Station takes around 15 minutes, while cycling takes roughly 5 to 10 minutes. Santander Cycles docking stations and bicycle parking are available near both bridge towers.

Compare your travel options

ModeTravel time from Trafalgar SquareEstimated costBest for

🚇 Tube

20–25 mins

£

Fastest option

🚆 Train

15–20 mins

££

Regional travellers

🚌 Bus

30–45 mins

£

Budget travel

🚤 River Bus

25–30 mins

££

Scenic arrival

🚗 Car/Taxi

20–35 mins

££–£££

Convenience

🚶 Walking/Cycling

15–45 mins

Free

Sightseeing

What is the best way to get to Tower Bridge?

  • Fastest option: The Tube to Tower Hill Station is usually the quickest route, combining frequent services with a short walk to the entrance.
  • Most budget-friendly option: London buses and walking offer the lowest-cost ways to reach Tower Bridge while still providing excellent views of the city.
  • Best for sightseeing: The river bus and Thames Path walking route showcase many of London's most famous riverside landmarks before you arrive.
  • Most convenient option: Taxis and ride-hailing services provide door-to-door transport and are particularly useful for families, groups, or visitors carrying luggage.

Frequently asked questions about Tower Bridge directions

Tower Hill Station is the closest Underground station. The walk from the station to the exhibition entrance takes approximately seven minutes.

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About Tower Bridge

Plan Your Visit

Tower Bridge Timings