City Bridge Foundation

Opened on 30 June 1894, Tower Bridge was built by and is owned and managed by the charity City Bridge Foundation - historically known as Bridge House Estates.

City Bridge Foundation

City Bridge Foundation was founded around 900 years ago to maintain the old London Bridge, using income from bridge tolls, rents and bequests. Today, it owns and maintains Tower Bridge and London, Southwark, Millennium and Blackfriars bridges - at no cost to the taxpayer.

As well as being a world class bridge owner, City Bridge Foundation is also London's largest independent charity funder, using surplus from the bridge fund to support organisations working to make London a fairer, more equitable place. It awards over £30 million in grants every year to charities across the capital.

As part of City Bridge Foundation, any profit generated by Tower Bridge is invested directly into the capital in the form of charitable grant making funds so by visiting Tower Bridge, visitors will help to support worthy causes across London.

City Bridge Foundation history

City of London Corporation

The sole trustee of City Bridge Foundation is the City of London Corporation, the governing body of the 'Square Mile' - the historic heart of London since Roman times. 

The City of London Corporation is older than Parliament and its experience and tradition underpin its modern role as the provider of key services. Elected Members, headed by the Lord Mayor, operate on a non-party political basis.

Tower Bridge adheres to its relevant plans and polices including:

Safeguarding policy

Modern slavery statement

More City of London policies

Image of the City taken from Tower Bridge, including the Walkie Talkie and 22 Bishopgate

What else can I see and do in the City?

Find out what's open in the Square Mile by visiting the City of London website.

Or view our list of attractions which are all provided by the City of London, including Guildhall Art Gallery and The Monument to the Great Fire of London: