Cavendish Bridge, bridge in United Kingdom
Cavendish Bridge is a simple road bridge that crosses the River Trent and connects Leicestershire and Derbyshire. The concrete structure sits slightly to the east of where the original stone bridge once stood and uses traffic lights to manage vehicle crossing in a controlled manner.
The first stone structure was completed in 1760 by designer James Paine, replacing wooden bridges and a ferry service that had operated for centuries. A major flood in 1947 destroyed much of the original bridge, prompting the military to build a temporary crossing until the current concrete version opened in 1957.
The bridge takes its name from William Cavendish, who supported its construction and left his mark on local identity. The name appears on plaques and in the hamlet itself, connecting the crossing to a figure from the past who shaped the area.
The location is accessible on foot with quiet walking paths along the river available to visitors. The area is sparsely populated, so parking options nearby are limited, and daylight hours are best for exploring the surroundings.
A plaque showing the original toll charges still remains even though the old toll house vanished long ago, serving as a reminder of when travelers paid to cross the river. This memorial marker offers insight into the region's economic history and the fee structures that once regulated the crossing.
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