Town Bridge in Bradford-on-Avon

The centre of Bradford-on-Avon developed around the ford across the river Avon, thus the origin of the town’s name ‘Broad-Ford’.

History

In Norman times, the stone bridge known today as Town Bridge (see below) was added. The Norman side of the bridge the visitor sees today is upstream and has pointed arches; the newer side has curved arches. Town Bridge is a grade I listed building.

On 2 July 1643, during the English Civil War, Royalists seized control of the bridge on their way to the Battle of Lansdowne. Another event from the 17th century to affect Town Bridge was the addition of a small building on the bridge. It was originally a chapel but later used as a gaol.

Town Bridge, Bradford-on-Avon

Nearby

Town Bridge in Bradford-on-Avon is located at the conjunction of St Margaret’s Street and Silver Street in central Bradford-on-Avon. Visitors should be sure to view Abbey Mill from the bridge. Also, visitors may want to visit the nearby Tithe Barn and not far away in Bath: American Museum, Bath Abbey, or Roman Baths.

Access – Getting There

Bradford on Avon is located on the A363 about a 20 minute drive from Bath. Bradford on Avon Station is also easily accessible via a 15 minute railway journey from Bath. London is around a two hour drive or a 90 minute train ride from Bath.

Trains to Frome take about 25 minutes from Bradford on Avon.

Places to Stay

Serving central Bradford on Avon are at least two inns; the Swan Inn and the Castle Inn as well as other cottages and converted properties. There is also a wealth of choices within an easy driving distance of Bradford on Avon. Single rooms in the area start from around £35 per night and range into the hundreds of pounds for more luxurious accommodation.

Town Bridge in Bradford-on-Avon Map