Millennium Bridge

The Basics

After its unveiling in 2000, the Millennium Bridge—the first pedestrian-only bridge built across the Thames in more than 100 years—quickly took its place as an iconic part of London’s urban landscape. Bridge visitors are treated to expansive city and river views, with a particularly stunning architectural alignment including the south facade of St. Paul’s Cathedral visible from the south bank. Contextual detail, and architectural history of the bridge and the area, are included on a number of city walking tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The bridge is a must for first-time visitors to London.

• Soon after the bridge opened, structural issues caused it to wobble. Although it was never seen as a danger, the bridge was closed for two years while dampers were added to stop the movement.

• London can be very cold and wet in the winter months, so dress accordingly if planning to walk across the bridge.

• Gentle ramps offer wheelchair access on both sides of the river.

How to Get There

On the north side of the bridge, the closest Underground stations are Blackfriars (a 4-minute walk away) and Cannon Street and St. Paul’s (both about an 8-minute walk away). South of the Thames, the closest station is London Bridge on the Northern Line, about a 10-minute walk away.

When to Get There

The bridge is open 24 hours a day year-round. Daytime offers stunning views and photo ops of St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the twinkling lights reflecting on the Thames after dark are also dazzling.

Tate Modern

If walking north to south over the Millennium Bridge, you’ll land very near the entrance to the Tate Modern. The Turbine Hall, on the renowned modern art museum’s basement level, has unique, large-scale rotating exhibitions, and from the top-floor terrace you can enjoy panoramic London views on a clear day. Entrance to the museum is free (with varying ticket costs for temporary exhibitions).

Ways to explore

A walk across the bridge affords excellent views of London’s skyline—a particularly famous angle creates the illusion of St. Paul’s Cathedral being supported by the bridge. Choose a group or private walking tour of the city for more insights into the history of the bridge and the area, or a boat tour along the River Thames for a different perspective. Fear not: although the bridge’s enduring nickname has stuck, its famed wobble has been corrected.

Accessibility

The Millennium Bridge is wheelchair accessible, featuring ramped access on both ends.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, layers

Not allowed

Riding your bicycle (you can walk it)

Amenities

Public restrooms at the Tate Modern on the south bank; restaurants and stores on either side

Address

The Millennium Bridge crosses the River Thames in central London.

Driving

Driving in central London can be a headache and expensive due to the congestion charge and parking fees. Hail a taxi or book a rideshare service instead.

Public transportation

On the north side, the closest London Underground stations are Blackfriars (a 4-minute walk away) and Cannon Street and St. Paul’s (both about an 8-minute walk away). On the south, the closest station is London Bridge, about a 10-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

Early morning for a serene sunrise or evening to see the lights shimmering on the river.

Best days to visit

You can walk the bridge any day, but weekends are always busiest.

Best months to visit

Summer (June through August) is the most pleasant for strolling over the bridge.

Special events

The bridge plays a role in the annual Totally Thames festival, which celebrates the river with performances and cultural events in September.