Sonning Backwater Bridges

Sonning Backwater Bridges are two concrete structures that span the weir stream and millrace sections of the River Thames near the village of Sonning. They allow passage across both waterways and connect the surrounding land to the island on which the historic mill buildings stand.

Built in 1986, these bridges replaced older wooden structures that had struggled with the weight of traction engines in the early 1900s. The newer construction was designed to handle increased traffic and provide a more reliable crossing over the Thames.

The bridges connect to the Mill at Sonning, a former watermill that now operates as a dinner theater situated on an island between river channels. This venue has become a gathering place for local entertainment and regional cultural events.

These bridges form the sole Thames crossing between Reading and Henley-on-Thames, so the B478 road regularly becomes congested. Visitors should expect delays during peak times and may want to plan their journey timing carefully or explore alternative routes if passing through the area.

An artist named Impro installed a letterbox on one of the bridge supports in 2013 that can only be accessed by people traveling by water. This hidden postal feature surprises boaters passing through and represents an imaginative intervention in the landscape.

Inception: 1986

Official opening: 1986

GPS coordinates: 51.47667,-0.91583

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:47