Broughton Suspension Bridge

Broughton Suspension Bridge is an iron suspension bridge across the River Irwell in Greater Manchester. Wrought-iron chains support the deck between two stone piers on opposite banks.

John Fitzgerald commissioned the crossing in 1826 to link his estate with coal mines on the opposite riverbank. A collapse in 1831 prompted new regulations for troop movements across bridges.

The bridge collapse of 1831 led to a permanent change in military protocols, requiring soldiers to break formation when crossing bridges worldwide.

Access is available from footpaths along both riverbanks near residential areas. The crossing is short, and the riverbank paths can become slippery after heavy rain.

A faulty bolt snapped during a troop march in lockstep, sending around 40 soldiers into the river water below. No one drowned, but the incident permanently changed military marching rules worldwide.

GPS coordinates: 53.49611,-2.27000

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:24