London Bridge may be the most famous bridge across the River Thames, but it was not the second bridge to be built. The second bridge constructed across the Thames was actually Old London Bridge, which was completed in 1209.

Old London Bridge was a stone-arched bridge that spanned the river from the City of London to Southwark. It replaced the original wooden bridge that had been built by the Romans in the 1st century AD. The bridge featured 19 arches and was lined with shops and houses, making it a bustling hub of activity in medieval London.

Old London Bridge stood for over 600 years, becoming a symbol of the city and a key crossing point for travelers and traders. However, by the 19th century, the bridge had become overcrowded and structurally unsound. In 1831, it was decided that a new bridge needed to be built to accommodate the growing city.

The construction of the second modern bridge across the Thames began in 1824 and was completed in 1831. This new bridge was named Tower Bridge and was designed by Sir John Wolfe Barry and Sir Horace Jones. Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge, featuring two towers and a central bascule section that can be raised to allow ships to pass through.

Today, Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and is a popular tourist attraction. It stands next to the Tower of London and provides stunning views of the city from its high-level walkways. The bridge is still in use, carrying both road traffic and pedestrians across the Thames.

While London Bridge and Tower Bridge may be the most well-known bridges across the Thames, Old London Bridge holds the distinction of being the second bridge ever built across the river. Its long history and impact on the city of London make it a fascinating piece of the city's past.

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