Blackfriars Bridge, Grade II listed road bridge in Manchester, England
Blackfriars Bridge is a three-arch sandstone structure spanning the River Irwell between Manchester and Salford. The bridge carries pedestrians and vehicles across its substantial stone arches, which remain supported by solid piers throughout its span.
This bridge replaced a wooden footbridge in 1820 after a design competition won by Thomas Wright. Wright's classical stone-arch design established standards for bridge building during that period.
The central arch displays paired ionic pilasters, reflecting early 19th-century craftsmanship and building techniques. These architectural details remain visible in the stonework, showing how builders worked at that time.
The bridge is accessible year-round and offers direct foot and vehicle passage between Manchester and Salford. Using the walkways during quieter times helps avoid peak traffic periods.
The original balustrade was replaced with cast iron in the 1870s, then later upgraded with concrete cladding in 1991. These changes altered both the bridge's appearance and the view of the river from its surface.
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