The bridge's framework is constructed from over 11,000 tons of steel which is clad in both Portland stone and Cornish granite.

Over 430 labourers were employed in the bridge's construction.

The bridge has twin walkways enclosed in glass which provide fine views of the city.

When completed the bridge was the largest bascule bridge yet built.

The bascules are raised to allow tall ships to pass through, an event which happens around 900 times per year.

The bascules were originally steam-powered until 1976 when an electric system was installed.

On April 5th 1968, a disgruntled Royal Air Force pilot flew a Hawker Hunter jet fighter in between the bridge's top span and main deck.

The ironwork's current red white and blue colour scheme was adopted in 1977 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee.

The bridge's deck can be raised to 87 degrees from the horizontal.

Tower Bridge is the world's most famous bascule bridge, is one of the world's most famous and recognisable bridges and is one of London's most famous icons.

A total of 8 building contractors worked on the bridge.

The original hydraulic machinery was supplied by Sir W. G. Armstrong, Mitchell and Co., Ltd.

Work commenced in April 1886, the foundation stone being laid on behalf of Queen Victoria by the Prince of Wales, the later King Edward VII.

Construction costs at the time were around £1m.

The complete length of the bridge, including the approaches is around half a mile.

The width of the roadway is 10.6 metres (35 feet) and is bordered on each side by footways, each of which is 3.8 metres (12.5 feet).

Measured from the level of the foundations, the total height of the towers is 89.3 metres (293 feet).

The bridge was designed to blend harmoniously with the nearby The White Tower.

Tower Bridge is Grade I Listed.