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All the United Kingdom Wales Monmouth Monnow Bridge

Monnow Bridge

The only medieval bridge in Britain with its defensive tower still in tact.

Monmouth, Wales

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Alan Newman
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Farmer’s market on the bridge.   Robin Drayton
  Stuart Buchan
  Philip Halling
  Jonathan Billinger
  juanpalomera / Atlas Obscura User
  mintconfetti / Atlas Obscura User
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About

This unusual bridge over the River Monnow was built around 1270 as part of the defenses for the town of  Monmouth, which was an important locale on the border of England and Wales. The bridge replaced a wooden bridge built in the 11th century by the Normans.

Such bridges with defensive gate towers were once common in Europe, but the pressures of traffic demands on bridges and the reducing needs for defense has brought about the demolition of many. There are only three left in Europe and this is the only one of its kind remaining in Great Britain.

Over the years the tower has been used as a fortification, a gaol, and a toll house. The bridge is now a scheduled ancient monument, no longer used for traffic. It is used on the 4th Saturday of each month for a local farmer's market.

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Medieval History Bridges Infrastructure

Know Before You Go

There is level access across the bridge with parking outside the nearby Waitrose. One of the best views of the bridge can be found from the churchyard of St Thomas's.

Community Contributors

Added By

Dr Alan P Newman

Edited By

jooniur, juanpalomera, mintconfetti

  • jooniur
  • juanpalomera
  • mintconfetti

Published

March 19, 2018

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Monnow Bridge
Monnow S
Monmouth, Wales
United Kingdom
51.809076, -2.719903
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