Tower Bridge to welcome back both people & pooches this May

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One of the most recognised landmarks in the UK. Photo by Harry Roberts

After the longest period of closure since Tower Bridge opened its doors to the public over 125 years ago, London’s defining landmark announces plans to reopen on Monday 17 May.

As London’s only major dog friendly attraction, visitors can bring their four-legged friends along to stretch their legs on the high-level Walkway and take in the view through the Glass Floor, 42m above the River Thames.

Chris Earlie, Head of Tower Bridge, said: “We can’t wait to welcome both locals and visitors from across the UK to Tower Bridge once more, to offer an escape from the routine we have become so used to. We are excited to reopen with a packed itinerary of guided tours, activities, and family events running well into the summer, to provide our visitors with a fantastic experience of iconic London history.

VIPooch Day

Every day is dog-friendly at Tower Bridge but for one day only (13 June), London’s only major dog friendly attraction is giving canines the pedigree treatment. Dogs (and their owners) will be given exclusive access to the East Walkway and Glass Floor across the day with the first 50 dogs receiving a Free VIPooch treat bags (worth £20) – kindly donated by Pets Pyjamas.

Family events

Designed to ensure a fun and safe trip, Tower Bridge will host a huge lineup of kids activities.

For half term, they’re throwing a Tower Bridge Drawing Challenge on 1 June. Kids can test their knowledge of Tower Bridge and take on their family members in a drawing challenge. The kids will be able to explore Tower Bridge and find inspiration for the drawings (either inside the bridge or of the spectacular views).

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We also cant wait for these guys to bring back their Yoga in the Walkway classes

The second kid friendly event is called Semaphore. Before walkie talkies were invented, Tower Bridge staff communicated with the boats on the river using semaphore. Families can make their own semaphore flags and learn a new way of communicating on 19 June.

A moment of calm

The team here hold special entry times for anyone who would like to explore the Bridge in a calm, tranquil atmosphere, including people with autism and any other needs, as well as their siblings, families and carers.

Visitors are able to explore the Bridge and Family Trail with reduced capacity, no loud soundscapes or videos, and sensory items on hand to help to assist anyone who may be overwhelmed due to the new environment.

Relaxed Opening takes place on the third Saturday of every month. Upcoming dates: Saturday 19 June, Saturday 17 July.

Guided Tours

Intimate guided tours take visitors through the iconic Towers, Walkway and the Victorian Engine Rooms, led by an expert on all things Tower Bridge to bring the iconic structure to life and share stories behind the Bridge’s history and the people that built it.

Tour sizes are limited to six people to ensure the best, COVID-safe visitor experience. Tours take place every Saturday at 3pm and Sunday at 11am. On the last Saturday of every month, Tower Bridge runs a Guided Tour with a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter.

Feature image by Harry Roberts

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