Barnstaple Long Bridge, Medieval road bridge in North Devon, England

Barnstaple Long Bridge is a medieval stone structure that crosses the River Taw using sixteen pointed masonry arches. The bridge extends across the water with arches of varying sizes, creating a substantial passageway for traffic.

Records from 1274 show that the bridge was already receiving maintenance funding at that time. Over the centuries, it underwent repairs and survived periods of damage before reaching its current form.

The bridge forms a central link connecting Barnstaple's communities across the river for daily travel and commerce. Locals and visitors experience it as the main passage through town, making it a familiar landmark in their journeys.

The bridge is accessible to pedestrians and vehicles as a straightforward river crossing. You can walk or drive across it directly without complications to reach the other side.

The bridge was constructed using local stone and demonstrates engineering techniques from the thirteenth century. These building methods reflect the skilled craftsmanship of medieval times in the region.

• Location: North Devon
• GPS coordinates: 51.07740,-4.06017
• Latest update: August 30, 2026 17:11