Portumna bridge

Portumna bridge is a steel swing bridge crossing the River Shannon between County Galway and County Tipperary. Its five spans rest on cast iron pillars and feature steel girder construction throughout the structure.

The bridge was completed in 1911 following a design by London engineer C. E. Stanier and built by Manchester's Hammerley Heenan ironworks. It was constructed to provide essential transport links between the two counties across the Shannon.

The bridge represents a vital connection point between the counties of Galway and Tipperary, serving as a central transportation route for local communities.

The bridge opens on schedule to allow boats with more than 4 feet (1.2 meters) of clearance to pass, with waiting areas on both sides. Plan your crossing around these operating times if traveling by car.

The bridge rests partly on Hayes Island, where the original bridge keeper's house still stands from an earlier era. This building predates the current structure and offers a glimpse into how the crossing operated before.

Location: County Galway

GPS coordinates: 53.09110,-8.19400

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:27