Conway's Bridge

Conway's Bridge is a stone arch structure that crosses Henley Road at the base of Happy Valley, featuring rough stonework with large, irregular blocks designed to resemble natural rock formations. The construction displays typical traits of bridges from this period with a raw appearance and a maintained lawn beneath it.

The bridge was built in 1763 by Humphrey Gainsborough, brother of the renowned painter Thomas Gainsborough, and used stones salvaged from Reading Abbey ruins. This project exemplifies how old materials were recycled to create new structures during this period.

The bridge takes its name from Henry Seymour Conway, an 18th century English politician, and displays the rustic architectural style of its era through its irregular stonework designed to evoke natural formations.

The bridge remains in active use as a connection between Wargrave and Henley-on-Thames and can be crossed on foot. The grassy area beneath it is open to visitors and provides a spot to rest.

The builder Humphrey Gainsborough was not merely a craftsman but the brother of the renowned artist Thomas Gainsborough, linking this bridge to an unexpected artistic connection. This family made contributions to English culture in very different ways.

Location: Remenham

Inception: 1763

GPS coordinates: 51.52644,-0.88082

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:02