Crossing the Millennium Bridge is a journey between London’s past and future. This sleek steel pedestrian bridge connects two iconic landmarks: the historic St Paul’s Cathedral and the cutting-edge Tate Modern.
If you’re planning to visit the Millennium Bridge in London, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through its history, what to see, interesting facts, and tips to make the most of your visit.
A brief history of the Millennium Bridge
The Millennium Bridge was inaugurated in 2000 as part of the city’s celebrations for the new millennium. Designed by renowned architectural firm Foster and Partners, in collaboration with Arup and artist Sir Anthony Caro, this suspension bridge is known for its minimalist, futuristic design.
But things didn’t go smoothly at first: just days after opening, pedestrians noticed the bridge swaying more than expected. This phenomenon, known as “synchronous lateral excitation,” forced its closure for nearly two years to fix the issue. Since then, the bridge has become one of the city’s most beloved and photographed landmarks.
Where is the Millennium Bridge and how to get there?
The Millennium Bridge spans the River Thames, linking two key areas of the city:
- North side: St Paul’s Cathedral, near Ludgate Hill.
- South side: Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe, in the vibrant Bankside area.
How to get there?
- By Underground: The nearest stations are St Paul’s (Central line) and Blackfriars (District and Circle lines).
- With the London City Tour hop-on hop-off bus: Get off at Queen Victoria Street – The City, just steps from the bridge.
- On foot or by bike: The bridge is pedestrian-only, ideal for walking or cycling.
What to see from the bridge? Unique London views
Crossing the Millennium Bridge offers far more than just changing riverbanks. It provides some of the most striking views in central London:
- Looking north: The majestic dome of St Paul’s Cathedral rises in the distance.
- Looking south: The industrial silhouette of Tate Modern transforms into a temple of contemporary art.
- Down the river: You can spot the Tower Bridge, the skyscrapers of the City like The Shard or the Walkie Talkie, and even a cruise boat on the Thames.
Want to see the city from another perspective? Pair your visit with a Thames River cruise for unforgettable views from the water.
3 Fun facts about London’s most famous suspension bridge
- It’s nicknamed the “Wobbly Bridge” due to the swaying motion experienced during its early days.
- The bridge appears in movies like Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, where it collapses dramatically (don’t worry — pure fiction!).
- It was the first new pedestrian bridge built over the Thames in more than 100 years and marked a new era in London’s urban design.
What to visit near the Millennium Bridge?
One of the bridge’s greatest assets is its location, connecting must-see London attractions on both sides of the river:
North bank:
St Paul’s Cathedral: A baroque masterpiece with spectacular city views from its dome. Reach it easily from the Ludgate Hill – St Paul’s Cathedral stop.
South bank:
Tate Modern: A free museum of contemporary art featuring works by Warhol, Dalí, Hockney and more.
Shakespeare’s Globe: A faithful recreation of the original 16th-century theatre where the Bard’s plays come to life.
Southbank and Borough Market: A short walk away, this area is packed with culture, street performers, and some of the best food in the city.
4 Practical tips for your visit
- Best time to go: Sunset is magical when the golden light reflects off the river.
- Avoid peak hours: For a relaxed walk and the best photos, visit early in the morning or later in the evening.
- Dress in layers: The wind by the Thames can be chilly, even in summer.
- Explore more with City Tour: Hop on the London City Tour sightseeing bus and keep discovering the city your way. Check out the available routes.
Discover the most cinematic bridge in London!
The Millennium Bridge is more than just a link between two riverbanks — it’s a connection between tradition and innovation, history and modern art. Whether you’re exploring the city with the hop-on hop-off bus or strolling along the Thames, this bridge is an essential stop.
✨ Ready to explore London at your own pace? Book your ticket for the London City Tour bus and enjoy the comfort of discovering the city your way.
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