Significant Bridges and Dams on the River Thames

Iconic Bridges of the Thames

The River Thames is crossed by numerous historic and modern bridges, especially in London. Key examples include:

• Tower Bridge: A combined bascule and suspension bridge (completed 1894), iconic symbol of London.
• London Bridge: The latest (1973) in a line of bridges dating to Roman times.
• Westminster Bridge: Links Parliament with the South Bank; painted green to match House of Commons seats.
• Millennium Bridge: Pedestrian suspension bridge (2000) linking St Paul's Cathedral to Tate Modern.
• Chelsea Bridge: Suspension bridge (1937) with distinctive red and white paint.
• Richmond Bridge: Oldest surviving Thames bridge in London (1777), elegant stone arches.

Dams on the Thames

There are no major dams on the River Thames. The river flows freely, maintained by a series of locks and weirs (like Teddington Lock) that manage water levels and enable navigation. This free-flowing nature supports its tidal ecology and historic navigation.