Tower Bridge facts for kids are many, but only some of them are really TAPSYlicious. Discover them all with me!

The Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic monuments of the English capital. However, many important and interesting facts about the most famous bridge in London are still unknown for most people. Keep reading to discover them and join a Tapsy Tour of London to discover the secret ones with me!

THE TOP 8 TOWER BRIDGE FACTS FOR KIDS

1. REMEMBER MY NAME, TOWER BRIDGE!

Most people have clear in mind the image of the Tower Bridge crossing over the River Thames. However, most of them would probably mistakenly refer to it as the “London Bridge”. Yes because the London Bridge is ANOTHER bridge, not far from Tower Bridge, but absolutely not as impressive as the latter.

2. I AM NOT A FLAG

Originally conceived to be a chocolate brown color, in 1977, to celebrate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, it was painted red, white and blue, like the colors of the English flag. Only recently it has been restored to its original brown color.

3. RAISE THE BRIDGE, SIR!

There are many bridges in London, but only one can be raised: the Tower Bridge. That’s because it allows ships to pass from one side of the Thames to the other. Do you have a ship and you want the bridge to raise for you? Don’t worry, it’s free and it’s not so unusual. Just imagine that the bascules of the bridge are raised more than 1000 times a year! Just keep in mind that you must give at least 24 hour notice.

4. THE BIG BROTHER WATCHES YOU

If you wish you could watch the Tower Bridge 24 hours a day, every day, you will be happy to know that you can do it. How? There is a camera pointed towards the bridge, that will make your wish come true, or just satisfy your sudden curiosity.

5. UP AND DOWN THE RIVER

Before the Tower Bridge was built, the only way to get from the borough of Tower Hamlets (north side) to Southwark (south side) was to cross a dark tunnel underneath the Thames. Not very appealing. Isn’t it?

6. RING THE GONG FOR ME

When the Tower Bridge was first opened to public, there were only lights and guards to direct traffic. Over the years, with the constant fog blocking the view, a gong as well eventually started to be used.

7. HISTORY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Tourists usually stop at one side of the Tower Bridge to admire its beauty that changes according to time and weather. However, there is an indoor side of the Towers that is really worth visiting. That’s the Tower Bridge Exhibition, a museum where you will have the chance to see the original Victorian engines, as well as a great view over London city! The best way to explore it? With a family travel expert that can show you the highlights of the history of the Tower Bridge in a super fun way!

8. WHO NEEDS NUMBERS?

The Tower Bridge was built over two centuries ago, more exactly between 1886 and 1894. It took more than 40,000 workers and 70,000 tons of concrete to raise the bridge. Its dimensions? Huge! Just imagine that it is 244 meters long and 65 meters high! However, the most incredible Tower Bridge fact for kids is yet to come: over 40,000 people cross this bridge every day!

Looking for a way to keep kids engaged before and during the trip to London? Try the Interactive Travel Guide of London, full of games and riddles to discover the history of the most famous bridge in London!

Tapsy