Farmleigh Bridge

Farmleigh Bridge is a cast iron box truss bridge that spans across the River Liffey in Strawberry Beds, resting on pillars of limestone-faced masonry with buttresses. The structure features arched supports that carry the crossing and showcases construction methods typical of the Victorian era.

The bridge was constructed in the 1870s by Edward Cecil Guinness, replacing a ferry that previously transported people across the river. It was originally built to carry water pipes and later electricity lines from a mill turbine to other locations.

The bridge once served as a symbol of industrial progress along the Liffey Valley and reflects how private enterprise shaped Dublin's infrastructure. It shows the influence that wealthy families held in transforming the city during the 1800s.

The bridge is currently not open to visitors as it remains under preservation work. Stone gateways mark the entrance but there is no functioning pedestrian pathway across the structure.

The bridge was never intended for public foot traffic but instead carried industrial pipes, making it a working infrastructure component of its era. This dual-purpose design shows how Victorian engineers built structures to serve multiple functions.

Official opening: 1850

GPS coordinates: 53.36130,-6.36520

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:41