Telescopic Bridge, Bridgwater

The Telescopic Bridge is a railway crossing over the River Parrett made of two separate steel sections that work independently of each other. One section stays fixed while the other slides to the side, a design that allowed the bridge to accommodate both trains and river traffic in a space-saving way.

Built in 1871 following engineer Francis Fox's design, it connected Bridgwater's docks to the main railway network for moving cargo between the port and inland destinations. This link became essential for the region's trade and commerce during the height of industrial expansion.

The bridge shows how Victorian engineers linked railways and ports together during a critical period of industrial development. Walking across it today, you can see how such connections shaped the movement of goods and people through Britain's industrial heartland.

The bridge is now open to pedestrians and can be reached within ten minutes on foot from Bridgwater Station by heading toward The Clink area. The location is easy to find and explore on foot as part of a walk around the town center.

The bridge features a clever mechanism where a section of railway track could slide sideways to allow the main structure to move for river traffic. This mechanical solution, still visible today, shows how Victorian engineers solved the problem of fitting two transportation systems into a tight urban space.

Location: Sedgemoor

GPS coordinates: 51.13180,-3.00182

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:03