All cities have bridges. The earliest ones were built to cross rivers. Later came the railways. Most bridges demanded a considerable amount of ingenuity and skill in their setting out and construction, but familiarity invariably renders them practically invisible to most residents, taken for granted until they cause a nuisance, or until they are brought out of obscurity by cleaning or by new paintwork.

In general, many bridges over rivers in cities cannot be appreciated because of the lack of riverside viewpoints. However, Bath has the advantage of towpaths along the River Avon and Kennet and Avon Canal.

Bath's most distinctive example is Pulteney Bridge, having shops along its full length.

Also see categories: Bridges and Viaducts, Cast Iron Arch Bridges

See Also

Sources of Information