The High Bridge

The High Bridge was built around 1160 at the point where Lincoln High Street crosses the River Witham.

High Bridge is the oldest bridge in Britain to have buildings actually constructed on it. Soon after being built, it was extended east to accomodate a chapel in memory of the martyred archbishop Thomas Becket, which stood here until 1763. In medieval times the bridge became the city’s main point for meat and fish trading. The river here is shallow, however, preventing larger boats getting through. It was only the cost of demolition that saved the bridge from being pulled down in 1803.*

*From the Pitkin City Guide to Lincoln

14 Comments CherryPie on Jun 30th 2016

14 Responses to “The High Bridge”

  1. I notice most of building are brick. I’m wondering what the white building is made from.
    Coffee is on

  2. Ginnie says:

    Now you’re reminding me of the Pulteney Bridge in Bath, Cherry, which I have walked. It’s most unusual, isn’t it!

  3. Impressive, isn’t it? I really must spend some time in Lincoln – haven’t been there for years. Wouldn’t it have been amazing to see the old London bridge – though I’m less sure about the decayed heads on pikes etc!

  4. Ayush says:

    a nice view, CP. i like the swans idly floating under the building.

  5. Alan says:

    I expect that this was a structure held in great awe when first built. The only other one I know of in the UK is in Bath.

  6. James Higham says:

    I’d get through with 23 inches draft.

  7. J_on_tour says:

    I remember reading somewhere that this was referred to occasionally as The Glory Hole, It certainly is an outstanding building.