Self-guided visits for schools

Where to go on the day

Bring your group and booking documents to the Ticket Office, located at the base of the North West Tower, at the time and date stated on your tickets. A map is included on your booking document/E-ticket.

Tower Bridge can be accessed via public transport on a variety of different routes and journey guidance is available on our Plan your visit page.

What you'll see inside Tower Bridge

Start at the Ticket Office then climb the steps to the top of the North Tower (lifts are is also available). Here, you will see archive footage of Victorian London just after Tower Bridge was completed in 1894. Take in the bricks and metal frames that form the main structure of the landmark – a stark contrast to the ornate stonework you see outside.

Tower Bridge has two Walkways that cross the Thames – one facing east and one facing west – with unrivalled views across London. See which famous buildings you can spot before having fun on the Glass Floors together.

After visiting the Walkways, pause for a moment in the South Tower to watch a short film about iconic moments in Tower Bridge’s history. Next, descend to ground level and follow the blue line to the Engine Rooms, where you will discover the impressive machines used to open the Bridge during Victorian times and beyond.

How long you should expect to be here

We recommend allowing 90 minutes for your self-guided visit to Tower Bridge.

Your pupils will then have plenty of time to enjoy themselves whilst learning all about the history of this iconic feat of Victorian engineering.

Accessibility

There are lots of steps in Tower Bridge but we offer step-free access with lifts in the North and South Towers.

More information on how we support people with different needs is available on our access and accessibility page.

Please be aware that due to unforeseen circumstances, lifts may be out of order at short notice. If in doubt, contact our bookings team via email at bookings@towerbridge.org.uk or by calling 020 7407 9191 between Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

Eating lunch

We don’t have a dedicated lunch space or café inside Tower Bridge.

However, you can enjoy a packed lunch and wonderful views across the Thames from Potters Fields Park, which is right next door.

Visit ahead of time with a complimentary pre-visit ticket

Before a self guided visit we recommend that teachers visit Tower Bridge in advance of their trip to familiarise themselves with the attraction’s layout and to conduct a risk assessment. 

To book a complimentary pre-visit ticket, please email learning@towerbridge.org.uk.

You may also want to see our Visual Story to help pupils plan their trip in more detail prior to arrival.

Access our self-guided visit resources

Download our self-guided visit resources for engaging activities, a recommended route, historical background and explanations of scientific processes.

Curriculum links : History, STEM, English

Topics: Bridges, Rivers, London, the Victorians

Our other free learning resources are a fantastic way to consolidate learning after a visit to Tower Bridge

The following are not included on a self-guided visit:

• A guided tour led by one of our expert guides.
• A workshop facilitated by a member of our Learning team.

Find out more about our range of facilitated school workshops, including Raise Tower Bridge, Bridge Builders and The Victorian Thames. These engaging, hands-on sessions are suitable for KS1, KS2 and KS3 learners: