Tower Bridge combined both a bascule and suspension bridge was built 1886 – 1894. A bascule bridge has two sections with counter weights that opens to allow large ships passage. It opens nearly 1000 times a year and prior to it’s electrification and hydraulic system in 1976 it used 20 tons of coal per week to keep the engines working.
It is a gorgeous example of the era built from steel & iron with 2,ooo,ooo rivets!
The two upper walkways have had glass flooring installed and the view below from 144 ft/44 m is cool.
The views from the pedestrian walks are great. Can you find The Monument?
I missed the last viewing HMS Belfast by 10 minutes. Maybe tomorrow. Or next visit.
The engine room would make mechanics and engineers drool.
The staff were all very helpful, of good humor (Yank Auto correct for all my UK pals) and seemed to enjoy their work. Even the Welshman.
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