High Bridge, Lincoln, Medieval stone bridge in Lincoln, England
High Bridge spans the River Witham beneath Lincoln's High Street, featuring a narrow stone arch passageway called the Glory Hole that restricts movement during floods. The upper level holds specialty shops and cafés accessible to people crossing the bridge above.
Built around 1160, this structure ranks among England's oldest bridges of its type, constructed with five barrel-vaulted stone ribs that have endured centuries of use. Timber-framed buildings were added to its western side around 1550 and remain standing today.
The bridge functions as a living shopping street, with specialty stores and cafés built into its structure where people move between them daily. This arrangement reflects how medieval bridges served as commercial centers integrated into urban life.
Heavy rainfall can make the narrow passage below impassable for boats, so checking conditions beforehand helps plan your visit. The shops and cafés on the upper level are easily accessible on foot and offer shelter if weather turns wet.
The corner posts of the timber-framed buildings display carved angel figures, offering glimpses of medieval religious craftsmanship. These carvings are rare examples of decorative detail that craftspeople added to functional structures during that period.
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