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Tower Bridge entrance guide | Which gate to use & why

  • The Tower Bridge entrance for all ticket types is located on the west side of the North Tower. For the quickest entry, use the designated lane for pre-booked, timed tickets. 
  • Guided tours will typically meet nearby, following the instructions on your voucher.
  • Wheelchair users can rely on this main tower bridge entrance, as lifts are available directly inside the North Tower. 
  • Everyone must pass through a security check; please arrive about 15 minutes before your time slot.

​Know your Tower Bridge entrance

How many entrances are there at Tower Bridge?

Tower Bridge maintains a simple entry system: there is only one official Tower Bridge entrance for public access to the exhibition (Glass Walkway, Towers, and Engine Rooms). Your goal is to reach this single point and use the correct queue line.

The main Tower Bridge entrance is situated on the west side of the North Tower. This location is closest to the Tower of London and the Tower Hill Underground Station, making it easy to find.

Map showing Tower Bridge, River Thames, and nearby attractions in London, including The Monument and Tower of London.

Know your Tower Bridge entrance

Tower Bridge in London with people relaxing on the grass nearby.

Main Tower Bridge Entrance

Location: West side of the North Tower (closest to the Tower of London) [See location on Google Maps >]
How to spot: Look for the main archway and signage reading ‘Tower Bridge Exhibition’
Best for: All visitors: Pre-booked timed entry tickets, guided tours, and accessible entry
Timings: Generally 9:30am—6pm (Last entry 5pm). Timings vary seasonally; always check your ticket
Crowds and waits: With timed tickets, expect ~10–20 min for mandatory security checks at peak times (midday). Without pre-booked tickets, longer waits are likely
Accessibility: Fully accessible. Step-free entry via the main Tower Bridge entrance. Lifts are available immediately inside the North Tower to reach all levels.
Parking/drop-off: Closest drop-off point is near the North Tower/Tower Hill. Nearby paid parking is at Tower Hill Coach and Car Park.
Highlights nearby: Tower of London, Tower Hill Memorial
Good to know: Arrive 15 mins before your time slot. Security is mandatory for everyone entering the Tower Bridge entrance, even with a pre-paid ticket.

Book timed entry tickets to minimise your wait time

Accessible entrance at Tower Bridge

The entire visitor experience, including the high-level walkways and the Engine Rooms, is designed to be fully wheelchair accessible.

The Main Tower Bridge Entrance is fully accessible. The entry point itself and the visitor reception area are fully step-free. There are no separate queues required; disabled visitors and their companions should use the pre-booked ticket lane at the main Tower Bridge entrance for validation. Once inside the North Tower, dedicated lifts are available to transport guests directly to the high-level walkways (where the Glass Floor is located) and between exhibition levels. The Victorian Engine Rooms, located at the base of the South Tower, are also fully accessible via a separate external lift, ensuring a smooth transition to this part of the exhibition.

Complimentary wheelchairs are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis from the Ticket Office at the main Tower Bridge entrance and at the Engine Rooms entrance. Large-print and Braille guides can be requested upon arrival at the Ticket Office.

Tower Bridge entrance to exit: The full flow

It is important to know that your visit is unidirectional. You must start at the single Tower Bridge entrance on the North Tower. After visiting the high-level walkways, you will descend the South Tower and follow the Blue Line to the Victorian Engine Rooms. The Engine Rooms act as the final part of your tour and the exit point for the entire exhibition. You cannot start or re-enter the main exhibition from the Engine Rooms area.

Security, bags & re-entry at the Tower Bridge entrance

Tower Bridge in London at sunset, viewed from under an archway.

All visitors entering through the main Tower Bridge entrance are subject to an airport-style security check, including bag scans. Please allow an extra 10–15 mins for this process, especially during peak hours.

You must keep bags compact; the maximum permitted bag size is 45cm x 35cm x 20cm. Bags larger than this, including large rucksacks or suitcases, are strictly prohibited as there is no cloakroom or locker facility available at the Tower Bridge entrance.

Re-entry is not allowed. Your ticket grants one-time entry only to the exhibition (Glass Walkway, Towers, and Engine Rooms). Once you exit the attraction, you cannot re-enter using the same ticket.

Frequently asked questions about the Tower Bridge entrance

I already bought tickets to Tower Bridge. Which entrance should I head to?

Head directly to the Tower Bridge entrance located on the west side of the North Tower. Your timed e-ticket will be scanned at this main entry point.

Which Tower Bridge entrance is best for skip-the-line ticket holders?

Since there is only one Tower Bridge entrance, pre-booked ticket holders should use the designated timed-entry line here to bypass the standard queue.

Where should guided tour groups enter the Tower Bridge entrance?

Guided tour groups typically meet outside the main Tower Bridge entrance first. Your host will then lead the group through the entry point together.

Which Tower Bridge entrance do I use if I don’t have tickets?

If you don't have a pre-booked ticket, you must still use the main Tower Bridge entrance. However, you will be directed to the on-site ticket purchasing queue, which may be longer.

What is the average wait time at the Tower Bridge entrance?

For pre-booked tickets, the wait is typically 15-20 mins for security/ticket validation. Without a timed ticket, the wait time can be much longer during peak hours.

Which Tower Bridge entrance should I use if I’m travelling with a group?

All groups use the single main Tower Bridge entrance at the North Tower. If your group is part of a tour, follow your guide's specific instructions for meeting and entry.

Can I re-enter Tower Bridge with the same ticket?

No. Tower Bridge tickets allow for single entry only. Once you exit the exhibition (via the Engine Rooms), you cannot re-enter the Tower Bridge entrance with the same ticket.

Is the Engine Rooms area accessed via the same Tower Bridge entrance?

Yes. You can use the main Tower Bridge entrance for validation, and head towards the Engine Rooms at the exit point located on the south side of the Bridge complex.