This wonderful old bridge dates back to the 17th century and is made from local Purbeck stone. The bridge got its 'old' in the 1930s, when it was replaced by the new Iford Bridge, and the original closed to traffic.

Not only is this a pretty bridge but it's a good spot to look up and down the river, watching kayakers and moorhens alike, paddling about.

MCW73

July 26, 2023

Hiking

Caution if the foliage is overgrown, lots of stinging nettles and other prickly things. Not recommended in shorts.

MCW73

July 3, 2025

Cycling

Iford Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the River Stour, connecting Christchurch and Bournemouth. It is a Grade II listed building by English Heritage.
Easternmost section: Dates back to the late 18th or early 19th century and is constructed of red brick with stone coping.

Middle section: Built in the mid-17th century, it is made of ashlar stone and features four round-headed arches. This section is particularly old, with some sources indicating it dates back to 1184.

Westernmost section: Also from the late 18th century, it complements the middle section's architectural style.

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Best routes to Iford Old Bridge

4.7

(3)

hikers

1. Bournemouth to Hengistbury Head loop via Iford

21.2km

05:24

60m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

4.0

(1)

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2. Throop to Ilford via Stour Valley Way

10.2km

02:34

20m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(2)

hikers

3. Iford Bridge – Iford Old Bridge loop from River Stour

4.33km

01:06

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

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Elevation 0 m

Weather

Today

Thursday 12 February

12°C

6°C

41 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h

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Location: Christchurch, Christchurch, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Iford Old Bridge

1. Bournemouth to Hengistbury Head loop via Iford

2. Throop to Ilford via Stour Valley Way

3. Iford Bridge – Iford Old Bridge loop from River Stour

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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