Tower Bridge has installed an innovative window coating on its high-level glass walkways that blocks 95 percent of infrared radiation and up to 96 percent of UV rays, a move designed to prevent the heat-related closures that disrupted visitors during last June's heatwave. The coating keeps the glass clear while reducing the stuffy conditions that previously made the walkways uncomfortable on sunny days.
Heatwave Closures Prompted the Upgrade
The upgrade comes after the bridge was forced to close for two days at the peak of the late June heatwave, when temperatures soared and the glass-walled walkways became seriously stuffy. Visitors who had planned their holidays around the Tower Bridge Experience were disappointed by the closures, which highlighted the need for a long-term solution.
The glass walkways, suspended 42 metres above the River Thames, are a standout attraction of the Tower Bridge Experience. They offer panoramic views of the river and the city, with the added thrill of seeing boats navigate the Thames below through the see-through floor. When timed correctly, visitors can also watch the famous bridge lift from above.
Heritage-Sensitive Cooling Solution
The new coating is described as heritage-sensitive, meaning it preserves the Victorian engineering marvel's appearance while addressing modern climate challenges. The windows remain as clear as ever, allowing visitors to enjoy London's panoramas without breaking a sweat.
The Tower Bridge upgrade is part of a broader effort to make London more resilient to rising temperatures. Transport for London (TfL) is investing heavily in air-conditioning for tube trains, stations, and double-decker buses. Earlier this year, Mayor Sadiq Khan unveiled Heat Ready London, a plan that includes planting more trees, rethinking public buildings, and finding solutions to make high-risk homes safer.
Future-Proofing London's Landmarks
These measures aim to keep London's landmarks appealing to tourists during the hottest months. The hope is that visitors will continue to flock to the city's biggest attractions every August, rather than seeking refuge in colder destinations.
Other London attractions are also opening up new experiences: one of the city's most important Shakespeare sites is launching new public tours, the Natural History Museum is opening a room closed since World War II, and the Cinema Museum has launched a campaign to secure its future.
