Thames’ First in a Century: The Millennium Bridge
The Millennium Bridge, inaugurated by the Queen, is the first bridge constructed over the River Thames in a century.
Beyond London, there are six other “Millennium” bridges in the United Kingdom, found in Lancaster, Gateshead, Salford, Glasgow, York, and Stockton-on-Tees, alongside various others globally.Connecting iconic London landmarks, such as Tate Modern (4-minute walk) and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre (2-minute walk), the bridge is a central hub for tourists.Featured in films like Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Namastey London, this 20-year-old bridge has become a cinematic symbol.
Constructed at a cost of GBP 18.2 million, surpassing its allocated budget by GBP 2.2 million, the bridge boasts around 400 art pieces by Ben Wilson, aka The Chewing Gum Man.Providing a stunning view of the London skyline, the bridge is a photographer’s delight. Accessible via nearby underground stations (Blackfriars – 4-minute walk, Southwark – 9-minute walk, St. Paul’s – 8-minute walk, Cannon Street – 8-minute walk), London Bridge station (12-minute walk), and various bus routes (4, 11, 15, 23, 25, 26, 45, 63, 100, 242, 381, and 344).
