Laira Bridge

Laira Bridge is a steel railway bridge that crosses the River Plym and links Devonport with Plymstock. The structure spans the water with a solid steel framework that is still clearly visible today.

The bridge was built in 1887 to carry trains for the London and South Western Railway company. It served passenger trains for many decades before shifting to freight traffic in later years.

The bridge shows how railways shaped the neighborhoods on both sides of the river. You can see this industrial past reflected in the surrounding buildings and layout today.

Since 2015 the bridge has been open to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the river without barriers. The walkway is wide enough for comfortable passage and works in all weather conditions.

The bridge forms part of Route 27 of the National Cycle Network and connects cycling paths across multiple neighborhoods. Cyclists use it daily as a reliable link between different areas of the city.

GPS coordinates: 50.36909,-4.10845

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:47