Swinford Toll Bridge

Swinford Toll Bridge is a limestone road crossing that spans the River Thames with multiple arches, connecting Eynsham village to the hamlet of Swinford. The structure stands about 4.5 m (15 ft) high and is protected as a Grade II* listed building and scheduled monument.

Built in 1769 with funding from the Earl of Abingdon, this crossing replaced a ferry service previously run by Eynsham Abbey. The bridge represented a major shift in how people and goods moved across this part of the river.

The structure displays its original Georgian architectural character with distinctive arches and period details still visible today. It remains one of the last active toll crossings on the Thames and shapes how people move through this rural landscape.

Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists cross without payment, while vehicles must pay a toll to use the bridge. It is worth checking current operating hours before planning your crossing, as schedules can vary.

The bridge holds a special tax exemption granted by Parliament in the 18th century that remains active today. This unusual legal protection makes it one of Britain's oldest toll crossings still operating under such a privilege.

Location: Cumnor

Inception: 1769

Official opening: 1769

Height: 4.5 m

GPS coordinates: 51.77440,-1.35926

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:20