Behind the Scenes: Engineering tours at Tower Bridge
But now they have their chance. Every weekend this February and March, visitors can book to join a small group that leaves the publicly accessible sections of the bridge behind and plunges instead into its innards, exploring still-functioning Victorian mechanisms and burrowing underneath the bridge’s famous raising bascules.
The tour begins on the raised walkways, with their crowd-pulling views over the rapidly ascending Shard and the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf. From these chilly, glass-encased platforms, our guide talks us through the celebrated construction innovations behind the Gothic marvel, known to the Victorians as the ‘Wonder Bridge’, and recounts key moments in its past that have since become legend.
There was the bus driver, for example, who in 1952 propelled the number 78 across a widening gap as the bascules started to raise. The driver kept his job and was even given a bonus for his efforts. In 1997, a panic-inducing security breach occurred when President Bill Clinton’s personnel drove across the bridge ahead of him, only to be separated from their charge when it closed and lifted to allow the good ship Gladys to pass beneath. Neither Scotland Yard nor the American embassy could intervene to stop the scheduled raise once the bascules were in motion.
The mechanisms of the lift itself become (slightly) clearer once the tour leaves the attraction’s common areas and descends to the engine room, where the handsome original Victorian motor is still in place beside newer machinery. Charles Lotter, one of the bridge’s senior technical officers, explains to us how it draws back the bolts that hold the two bascules together and sets the counterweights in motion to draw the two parts upwards. This process occurs around 1,000 times a year; any vessel can request a lift provided they do so in advance, in writing, and are not late for their appointment. The staggering feat of engineering that became the toast of Victorian London still attracts tourists every time it takes place (lift times are published daily on the website).
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A Whirlwind Tour Only Seen in London | Babyboomerstravelblog
London, England, the sight of the 2012 Summer Olympics and sight of historical buildings and architecture. The city is renowned for many things – a large list would not do it justice. England has a number of historical sites that are well known all around the world.
Historically, London has been the quintessential hub of the world with all cultures being represented well there. It is every bit exotic as it is historical – and with that, London mirrors even well known places such as New York and Beijing. A tour package in London, England is the perfect gift or a perfect way to spoil you and your family. There is much to think about and do while in London. Specialised tour packages and specialised itineraries to meet any need in the family is a great idea because tourists want to maximize their time on vacation – not dawdle around and waste precious time. An accommodation in London, England will indeed work wonders to help people rest and recharge. After all, tourists can take advantage of some world class monuments and tours they will never experience anywhere else in their lives.
1) Buckingham Palace – This is the place where the Queen officially lives. It is also the spot of the very iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. This tour is a must when visiting London.
2) National Gallery – This is a trip by itself. It is the place where paintings from famous artists such as Van Gogh and da Vinci are showcased – and of course a lot more others. This gallery can be appreciated by people of all walks of life. People will learn to have an appreciation for art.
3) The London Eye – Not a literal eye, of course. Sitting above the River Thames this immaculate structure gives tourists a chance to see a beautiful part of London that few have ever seen. Great for the romantics or family.
4) Tower of London – This historical structure is over 900 years old and was the sight of many battles and progress. It was also a place where trade of jewelry happened and happened often.
@ are you doing any concerts/tours in England?:)oxox mabie London? Xxx
HOLIDAY IN ENGLAND: London Open Top Bus Tours ( VIDEOS ) via @
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My Tours To London, England (2010)
Garbage Announce European Tour: 05-09 London, England - Troxy05-11 St. Petersburg, Russia ...