The Tower Bridge is a famous landmark in London, UK. Its name is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ˈtaʊər brɪdʒ/. The word "tower" is spelt with the "ow" diphthong, which sounds like "ow" as in "cow". The "r" is pronounced with the British English non-rhotic accent, meaning it is not pronounced at the end of a word like in American English. The word "bridge" is spelt with the short "i" sound and the "dg" consonant cluster, making it sound like "brij".
Tower Bridge is a renowned bridge situated in London, England, crossing over the River Thames. It is an iconic symbol of the city and is internationally recognized for its distinctive design and historical significance. The bridge was constructed between 1886 and 1894 and officially opened to the public on June 30, 1894.
Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge, with two impressive towers on either side connected by a high-level walkway. It spans a total length of 800 feet (244 meters) and stands at a height of 213 feet (65 meters). The bridge is designed to allow both pedestrian and vehicular traffic to pass over it, facilitating the connection between the city districts of Tower Hamlets on the north side and Southwark on the south side of the river.
The most distinctive feature of Tower Bridge is its movable section, known as the bascules, which can be raised to allow passage for ships and vessels with tall masts. This mechanism is operated by a hydraulic system and is still functional today. Tower Bridge is often raised for ceremonial and historical purposes or upon request of large vessels navigating the Thames.
As a famous landmark and tourist attraction in London, Tower Bridge offers panoramic views of the city from its walkways and also includes exhibitions and displays about its construction, history, and the workings of the bridge. It has become an enduring symbol of London's engineering excellence and architectural grandeur.
The word "Tower Bridge" has a straightforward etymology. "Tower" refers to the nearby Tower of London, an ancient fortress and prison, while "Bridge" denotes the structure that spans the River Thames in London, connecting the City of London with the borough of Southwark. The bridge's name, "Tower Bridge", therefore reflects its physical location next to the Tower of London. It was so named when it was completed in 1894.