Town Bridge & Lock-up

Town Bridge & Lock-up Gavin (Atlas Obscura User)

This stone bridge dates from the 13th to early 14th century. During that time, a chapel also stood on the bridge, and later a single room was added that was used for a variety of purposes, including a local jail.

The bridge is located at the center of Bradford on Avon, the focus of all the roads. An iconic symbol of the town, the bridge was chosen as the figure to represent several local organizations.

A bridge was mentioned during the time of Edward II, so it’s possible the bridge was built during the early 14th-century to replace the broad ford that gives the town its name. Two arches from the bridge remain.

One of the small buildings located on the bridge was actually used as a 17th-century jail for criminals until they saw the magistrate.

Know Before You Go

Bridge St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1BY, UK

There is no parking on the bridge, however there is parking at the Bradford-on-Avon train station carpark (3 minute walk). The Swan Hotel, just adjacent to the bridge, has parking as well but you must be using hotel or restaurant services.