After our fishy lunch at Borough Market, it is time to move on to the Tower Bridge, which is my favorite photography spot in London. This iconic landmark of London spanned the River Thames between Tower Hamlets and Southwark. The construction of Tower Bridge was built to ease the traffic congestion on London Bridge. I should also highlight that Tower Bridge is not London Bridge, totally different bridge altogether. But it is common for people to make the mistake since Tower Bridge is so famous in London.

We opt for the self-guided Tower Bridge exhibition tour which gives us access to high-level walkways. The high-level walkways provided a great viewpoint around central London and lots of information about Tower Bridge on display. Rather sad that I am unable to see the drawbridge in operation that day.

London City Hall

The unique sphere shaped London City Hall is just nearby. Here’s the office of London’s Government and where Assembly meetings take place. While parts of the City Hall are open to the public, visitors will be subjected to security screening at the entrance.

There are a café and one huge map of London on the lower ground floor.

The second floor will be the Chamber area for Assembly meetings.

Other than that, there isn’t much to see or do in the City Hall. Maybe just to marvel at the unique architectural structures?

Tower of London

Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress or simply Tower of London on the north bank of the River Thames was originally built by William the Conqueror. The historic castle was further defensively enhanced by successive monarchs and has since become one of the most recognizable buildings. Besides the Royalty, Tower of London was also once a lockup for the prisoners.

One main highlight of the Tower of London is to see and admire at the Crown Jewels, a royal collection of the Queen and significant symbols of the British Monarchy. The priceless regalia possession includes some of the nicest crowns, sceptres, swords, and jewellery, which are passed on to each reigning King or Queen. Even the super huge bank-vault-kind metal door is impressive on its own.

These enduring symbols of the British Monarchy are guarded by the Army, the live-in Beefeaters and the Ravens (which was nowhere in sight during the rain).

If you are puzzled by the name of Beefeater like I was, their proper name would be Yeoman Warder. The nickname was probably because they were permitted to eat as much beef as they want from the king’s table. These Yeoman Warders also conduct free guided tours around Tower of London.

There is a Ceremony of the Keys taking place every night precisely at 09:53 pm. While the ticket is free of charge, it must be booked way in advance at the official website as a result of its popularity.

Dinner at Harrods Food Hall

I would have waited for the sunset to take more photographs of the Tower Bridge but the rain changed my plan. Hence, it is dinner time at Harrods Food Hall instead. The famous Harrods department store is known for carrying high-quality luxury stuff and occupies a huge site at Borough High Street.

Harrods Food Hall is on the ground floor together with the other sections selling perfume, cosmetics, Harrods biscuits and most of all touristy stuff. The lovely painted ceilings, chandeliers, and décor make it a great place for dining.

First of all, we started with fresh tasty oysters at the Seafood Bar of Caviar House & Prunier.

Next, we move on to The Steakhouse for some amazing prime beef steak and beef fillet. I must say that eating at Harrods Food Hall can be costly but in this case, totally worth it.

Tower Bridge at night

It’s time to head back to the Tower Bridge after the nice dinner. And I am thankful that the rain has since stopped. The rainy day is probably the reason for the surrounding around City Hall to be empty and quiet while I am there.

And my, the Tower Bridge at night wows me big time, even more than daytime. My Tower Bridge pictures and words will not do justice to the most noteworthy landmark in London. You have gotta be there to see it!

An attempt with my fisheye lens.

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What are your thoughts about Tower Bridge and Tower of London? Leave a comment and share it with me.

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