Arizona Paths - How to Explore Lake Havasu City's Iconic London Bridge

The True Story Behind London Bridge's Transatlantic Move - A Piece of London in the Desert Tucked away in the Sonoran Desert, a reservoir turned lakeside retreat boasts an unlikely treasure – London Bridge.

The True Story Behind London Bridge's Transatlantic Move - A Piece of London in the Desert

Deer in the Woods — A deer gracefully moves through a dense forest, surrounded by tall trees and lush green undergrowth. The scene captures the serene beauty of a woodland environment.

Tucked away in the Sonoran Desert, a reservoir turned lakeside retreat boasts an unlikely treasure – London Bridge. This iconic landmark has been a magnet for curiosity seekers and history buffs alike since its relocation to Lake Havasu City in 1975.

Lake Havasu City at Twilight — Serene waters reflect the warm glow of distant lights as boats glide across the surface, with a rugged desert landscape and cacti silhouetted against the twilight sky.

The Fascinating Story of Lake Havasu's London Bridge

Sunset at Lake Havasu, Peoria — A serene sunset casts a warm glow over Lake Havasu, with distant mountains silhouetted against the vibrant sky. A lone boat glides across the calm waters, reflecting the golden hues of the setting sun.

In 1968, Robert P. McCulloch, the visionary developer behind Lake Havasu City, decided to acquire London Bridge from the City of London for a mere $2.4 million (approximately £1.7 million at the time). The bridge had served its purpose in the British capital since 1831 and was no longer needed due to changes in traffic patterns.

McCulloch saw an opportunity to create a unique attraction that would draw tourists to his developing resort town on the shores of Lake Havasu. He dismantled the bridge, shipped it over 5,500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, and reassembled it at its current location. The project was completed in just nine months.

Practical Tips for Visiting London Bridge

Before planning your visit:

Get familiar with the area: Lake Havasu City is a compact town with easy-to-navigate streets.
Choose your time wisely: Avoid visiting during peak summer months (June to August) when temperatures can soar above 110°F (43°C).
Plan for parking and transportation: There are designated parking areas near the bridge, but consider walking or biking around the city.

What to Expect

Upon arriving at London Bridge:

Take in the views: The bridge offers breathtaking vistas of Lake Havasu, surrounded by majestic red rock formations.
Explore the surrounding area: Stroll along the lake's shoreline, visit the nearby Botanical Gardens, or take a short drive to the nearby town for shopping and dining.

Best Times to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon: Enjoy mild temperatures (50s-70s°F / 10°C-20°C) and fewer crowds.
Sunset hours: Watch the sky turn pink as the sun sets over the lake, creating a magical atmosphere.

Practical Information

Location: London Bridge is situated in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, USA. For directions and more information, visit the official website or contact the Lake Havasu City Tourist Office.

Hours of Operation: The bridge is open 24/7 for public viewing.
Admission Fees: There are no fees to view London Bridge; however, some activities and attractions nearby may incur a cost.
Contact Information: For inquiries or more information, call the Lake Havasu City Tourist Office at (928) 854-2353 or visit their website.