London Bridge, Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions, with a dramatic coastline, quaint coastal towns and natural wonders. Among these, London Bridge near Port Campbell is a work of art by nature. Before one of the arches collapsed in 1990, London Bridge was famous for its double arch. It’s a geological wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. Situated in the Port Campbell National Park, you’ll get stunning views and a glimpse into the area’s history and wildlife.
This guide goes into the detail of London Bridge and the surrounding attractions to help you plan your trip along the Great Ocean Road, from famous landmarks like Cape Otway and Johanna Beach to hidden gems like The Grotto and Triplet Falls.

Coastal Haven

The area around London Bridge is a wildlife haven, where you can connect with nature on a deep level. The Southern Ocean with its rich ecosystem supports a variety of marine life, including Australian fur seals and dolphins that play in the waves near the limestone cliffs. Birdwatchers can spot seabirds like gannets and oystercatchers, and winter and spring brings the amazing sight of whales migrating. Beyond the coast, the nearby areas of Kennett River and Wye River are known for their koalas and birdlife, so there’s another layer of wildlife to explore. Whether you’re enjoying the ocean’s treasures or trekking through the forests, this coastal wildlife haven is teeming with Australian wildlife.

A History of Erosion and Beauty

Nature has been sculpting the Great Ocean Road’s landscape for millions of years, and London Bridge is a prime example of this process. Originally two arches connected to the mainland, this limestone formation had a big event in January 1990 when one of the arches collapsed, leaving two tourists stranded on what had become an island. Luckily, no one was injured, but it was a reminder of the power of the Southern Ocean and its role in shaping the coast.
It also adds to the charm of London Bridge, a reminder of the land and sea’s constant relationship. Surrounded by limestone cliffs, ancient forest trails and a rugged coastline, this is more than just a pretty view; it’s a window into the geological past.

Views to Remember

Not many places on the Great Ocean Road have views as good as London Bridge. Perched high above the Southern Ocean, the lookout has views of turquoise water crashing against limestone cliffs, with green hills behind. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit as the light changes and paints the coast in gold and amber. For photographers it’s a dream come true. Wide angle lenses capture the grandeur of the cliffs, close ups reveal the textures of the rock. If you prefer a quiet moment you’ll find it in the rhythm of the waves and the calls of the seagulls. Extend your visit by heading to Eastern View for more views or Cape Otway for a different view of the coast.

Where Nature Meets Wildlife

The wildlife around London Bridge is a big attraction for many visitors. On the cliffs and rocks you’ll find colonies of Australian fur seals sunbathing. Offshore dolphins are frequent visitors, whales in winter and spring are the stars of the show. In the sky above are shearwaters, terns and peregrine falcons.
For a closer look at the region’s wildlife, head to Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, an extinct volcanic crater that’s a haven for kangaroos, emus and koalas. The reserve also has information on the cultural heritage of the Eastern Maar and Gunditjmara people, who have lived in this land for thousands of years.

Step-by-Step Directions

London Bridge is located in the Port Campbell National Park, 275km southwest of Melbourne. The most popular way to get there is to drive along the Great Ocean Road, with stunning views, quaint coastal towns and stops at Bells Beach, Cape Otway and Port Fairy.
If you don’t have a car, guided tours from Melbourne often include London Bridge as part of an itinerary to the 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps and other nearby attractions.

Prime Time for Visiting

London Bridge is open all year round, but the best times to visit are spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). Spring has mild weather and beautiful landscapes with wildflowers, and autumn has golden hues. Winter (June to August) has the added bonus of whale watching as the whales migrate along the coast. Summer (December to February) is busier but has longer days to explore and plenty of sunshine to enjoy the coastal views.

FAQ

Where is London Bridge?

London Bridge is in the Port Campbell National Park, along the Great Ocean Road, near the town of Port Campbell.

Can I walk on London Bridge?

No, access to the rock formation has been closed since 1990 for safety reasons.

What wildlife can I see around London Bridge?

Seabirds, Australian fur seals, dolphins and whales. Kennett River and Lake Elizabeth are nearby for more wildlife viewing.

How far is London Bridge from the 12 Apostles?

London Bridge is 10 minutes drive from the 12 Apostles.

Are there tours to London Bridge?

Yes, many tours along the Great Ocean Road stop at London Bridge, 12 Apostles and other attractions like Cape Otway and Johanna Beach.

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