The London Millennium Bridge
Millennium Bridge in London is an exclusive pedestrian bridge built across River Thames. It is the only pedestrian bridge in the world. Many even call it the “wobbly bridge” because it has the dubious distinction of having to close down within days of its opening.
Initially when the bridge was opened, thousands of people traversed the bridge and to the utter dismay of all concerned, the bridge began to produce a swaying movement and the authorities wisely closed down the bridge without wasting much time.
In eyes of many Britons the bridge along with the super flop – Millennium Dome is one of biggest architectural collapse of the new millennium. However, all is well that ends well, and today, the Millennium Bridge provides every pedestrian the liberty to walk leisurely without being bothered about traffic. From the middle of the bridge, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of London. The bridge has linked two of London’s renowned tourists sites – St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tate Modern Art Gallery together.
This magnificent bridge has been designed by the renowned architectural firm – Foster and Partners. As you walk through the bridge, you will see “Y” frames along with cables, four on each side. The deck itself is very light and is 4 meters in width, which goes between the two cable sets. As far as lighting is concerned, the Millennium Bridge is one of the finest specimen of the judicious use of photo-cells to illuminate the entire bridge. No wonder, as dusk-descends on the city of London, the Millennium Bridge transforms into a great beam of light.
Millennium Bridge Map
Facts about Millennium Bridge
- Officially, the bridge was opened on 10th June, 2000 and was closed down on 12th June, 2000. It eventually reopened on 22nd February, 2002.
- Constructed at a whopping cost of 18 million pounds, the Millennium Bridge is the only bridge built across London’s Thames River since the Tower Bridge was opened way back in 1894.
Where is Millennium Bridge?
The Millennium Bridge is built along River Thames’ embankment in the city of London. The Millennium Bridge is situated between Blackfriars Railway Bridge and Southwark Bridge. Nearest tube stations are the London Bridge, London Blackfriars and Mansion House.
Best time to visit Millennium Bridge
The bridge is open year round. However, it would be best to see the Millennium Bridge illuminated in the evening.
More on Millennium Bridge
Nearby Attractions : Tate Modern Art Gallery, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Temple Church, the Monument, Bank of England Museum.
Picture By Arpingstone [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
England major attractions: Stonehenge, British Museum, Big Ben London, Buckingham Palace, The London Eye, Millennium Bridge, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, London Zoo, Trafalgar Square, Palace of Westminster, Kensington Palace, Lost Gardens of Heligan, Nelson’s Column, Wellington Arch.
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