London Bridge — Attraction in Four Corners States

From London to Lake Havasu City!

Years ago, when I lived in New York City, I heard and read stories about the London Bridge in Arizona. I thought it was fascinating and added it to my "Must Visit" sites. However, years passed, and I did not make it there, so I eventually forgot about it all! Then, during my last visit to Las Vegas, my brother suggested we visit Lake Havasu City, and he mentioned the "London Bridge," and all the old memories came back to me! So, we decided to do a family day trip to Lake Havasu City. When we finally got there, I was excited to see it in person, and it was as impressive as I thought it would be. We spent the day there, walked around the waterfront, and drove over the bridge to the other side for a different view of the structure. We all thought it was a fascinating site. Because London Bridge has been on my list for so long and has finally been checked off, I am writing the following summary of its history for all who have not read or seen it to encourage them to do so. They will not be disappointed. This is how London Bridge moved from a famous landmark in London to an equally famous and much-loved landmark in Arizona. It's a fantastic story of vision, engineering, and determination.

The original London Bridge, completed in 1831, was designed by John Rennie and stood as a major landmark in London for over a century. By 1962, however, the bridge was sinking into the River Thames due to its inability to handle increased traffic, prompting the City of London to seek a replacement. An auction was held, and Robert P. McCulloch purchased the bridge for $2.46 million in 1968, envisioning it as a centerpiece for Lake Havasu City.

After being dismantled into blocks and numbered for easier reassembly, the bridge was shipped through the Panama Canal to California and transported by truck to Arizona. Reassembling the bridge began in 1968, and it wasn't just putting the blocks back together. Engineers also created a new channel under the bridge, connecting a part of the Colorado River to Lake Havasu, which involved digging a one-mile-long canal.

The bridge's opening on October 10, 1971, was celebrated with a parade, fireworks, and a visit from the Lord Mayor of London, Sir Peter Studd. Today, the London Bridge is one of Arizona's top tourist attractions, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and helping Lake Havasu City to grow and thrive. A historical marker on the bridge tells the story of its journey from London to Arizona, making it a popular tourist spot to...

The bridge being here struck me as mad random but okay it's cool, with the history and all. London Bridge London Bridge at Lake Havasu Review Location: The London Bridge is located in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. This iconic bridge was originally constructed in London in the 1830s and was relocated to Lake Havasu in 19711. It spans the Bridgewater Channel Canal, connecting the mainland to an island in the Colorado River.

Historical Significance: The bridge has a rich history, having stood over the River Thames in London before being dismantled and shipped to the United States. It was reassembled in Lake Havasu City, making it a unique historical landmark1.

Attractions:

Bridgewater Channel: The area around the bridge is vibrant, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and recreational activities. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride1. English Village: Adjacent to the bridge, this quaint area offers a taste of England with its architecture and themed shops1. Events: The bridge and its surroundings host various events throughout the year, including boat parades and festivals1. Activities:

Boating and Water Sports: The channel is popular for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding1. Walking Tours: Guided tours are available, providing insights into the bridge’s history and the area’s development1. Photography: The bridge and its picturesque surroundings make for excellent photo opportunities1. Pros:

Unique Historical Landmark: It’s not every day you get to see a piece of London in Arizona1. Scenic Views: The bridge offers beautiful views of Lake Havasu and the surrounding desert landscape1. Family-Friendly: The area is great for families, with plenty of activities for all ages1. Cons:

Crowds: It can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons1. Commercialization: Some visitors feel that the area around the bridge is overly commercialized1. Overall Rating: 4.5/5 The London Bridge at Lake Havasu is a fascinating blend of history and modern recreation. It’s a must-visit for anyone in the area, offering a unique experience that combines cultural heritage with outdoor fun.

Have you visited the London Bridge at Lake Havasu, or is it on your...

Originally completed in 1831 across the River Thames, the granite bridge had begun to sink by the 1960s. Seeking funds for a replacement, the City of London put it up for sale. McCulloch—founder of the planned desert community of Lake Havasu City—won the bid in April 1968, convinced the landmark would draw tourists and land buyers. Each of the bridge’s 10,000-plus stones was carefully numbered, dismantled, shipped via the Panama Canal to Long Beach, California, and trucked inland to Arizona.  

Reassembly took three years. Engineers built a steel-and-concrete core clad in the original granite, reducing weight from roughly 130,000 tons to about 30,000. The 930-foot structure now spans the man-made Bridgewater Channel, its walkway lined with cast-iron lampposts made from Napoleonic cannon. McCulloch’s “folly” proved a success: the bridge became Arizona’s second-most-visited attraction after the Grand Canyon and remains the city’s...