Battersea Bridge

Battersea Bridge is an iron arch structure spanning the Thames between Chelsea and Battersea in London. It runs 221 meters across the river, built from cast iron and granite, with five wide arches supporting the roadway that measures 12 meters in width.

Joseph Bazalgette designed this crossing to replace a timber structure that had stood at the same spot. The opening took place on July 21, 1890, bringing a more modern link between the two riverbanks.

The wooden predecessor at this location served as a subject for paintings by J.M.W. Turner and James McNeill Whistler. This artistic connection has made the site a recognizable part of London cultural history, even though the old structure is now gone.

The crossing forms part of the A3220 route and links the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea with Wandsworth. Pedestrians can walk along either side and enjoy open views of the river as they cross.

At only 12 meters wide, this structure ranks among the narrowest Thames crossings in London. Though it carries daily traffic, there is little room for pedestrians beside the roadway.

Location: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Location: London Borough of Wandsworth

Architects: Joseph Bazalgette

Official opening: July 21, 1890

Length: 221 m

Longest Span: 50 m

Width: 12 m

Made from material: cast iron, granite

Part of: A3220 road

GPS coordinates: 51.48111,-0.17250

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:42