United Kingdom
England
South West England
Bath and North East Somerset
Pulteney Bridge and Weir
United Kingdom
England
South West England
Bath and North East Somerset
Pulteney Bridge and Weir
Hiking Highlight (Segment)
Recommended by 139 out of 140 hikers
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for: City of Bath WHS
Location: Bath and North East Somerset, South West England, England, United Kingdom
Pultney Bridge is only one of 4 bridges in the world with shops down both sides of the bridge. It also shows how much the city was built up to develop so that it was not affected by flooding.
May 24, 2018
Pulteney Bridge crosses the River Avon in Bath, England. It was completed by 1774, and connected the city with the newly built Georgian town of Bathwick. Designed by Robert Adam in a Palladian style, it is exceptional in having shops built across its full span on both sides. It has been designated as a Grade I listed building.
Within 20 years of its construction, alterations were made that expanded the shops and changed the façades. By the end of the 18th century it had been damaged by floods, but it was rebuilt to a similar design. Over the next century alterations to the shops included cantilevered extensions on the bridge's north and south faces. In the 20th century several schemes were carried out to preserve the bridge and partially return it to its original appearance, enhancing its appeal as a tourist attraction.
The bridge is now 45 metres (148 ft) long and 18 metres (58 ft) wide. Although there have been plans to pedestrianise the bridge, it is still used by buses and taxis. The much photographed bridge and the weir below are close to the centre of the city, which is a World Heritage Site largely because of its Georgian architecture.
March 29, 2017
The bridge and the Parade Gardens are a must-see when visiting Bath! Great atmosphere!
June 2, 2025
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