Why go
The bridge alignment is such that a clear view of St Paul's south façade is presented from across the river, framed by the bridge supports. Due to height restrictions, and to improve the view, the bridge's suspension design had the supporting cables below the deck level, giving a very shallow profile.
What to look for
- Londoners nicknamed the bridge the "Wobbly Bridge" after pedestrians felt unexpected swaying motion.
- Attempts were made to limit the number of people crossing the bridge.
- The bridge has not been subject to significant vibration since.
The full story
Construction began in 1998 and it initially opened in June 2000. The bridge was closed later on opening day and, after two days of limited access, it was closed for almost two years while modifications were made to eliminate the motion. The southern end of the bridge is near the Globe theatre, the Bankside Gallery, and Tate Modern, the north end next to the City of London School below St Paul's Cathedral. Design The design of the bridge was the subject of a competition organised in 1996 by Southwark council and RIBA Competitions. The winning entry was an innovative "blade of light" effort from Arup Group, Foster and Partners, and Sir Anthony Caro. The bridge has two river piers and is made of three main sections of 81 m (266 ft), 144 m (472 ft), and 108 m (354 ft) (north to south) with a total structure length of 325 m (1,066 ft); the aluminium deck is 4 m (13 ft) wide.
Your next visit
Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.
Outdoor visit · 10–15 min
Public-space walk and exterior observation only; no interior, garden, tower or ticketed admission included. Durations and walking are estimates. Check temporary restrictions and park or market opening times.
Outdoor visit · 22–45 min
World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.