Westminster Bridge, London

Westminster Bridge, London
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Westminster_Bridge_%26_Palace_of_Westminster.jpg
Author: Lin Mei


Westminster Bridge is one of the bridges across the River Thames in London. It is one of the most photographed bridges in the city, by virtue of it being close to the Palace of Westminster, the parliament house of the United Kingdom.

The idea to build a bridge at Westminster goes back to as early as 1664. However many decades would pass before parliament approved of a bridge in 1736. Construction began in 1739, and the first Westminster Bridge was completed in 1750.

Westminster Bridge, London
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Westminster_Bridge_3.JPG
Author: Iridescent


That first bridge lasted until the mid 19th century, when it was in such a bad shape that a new bridge had to be built to replace it. The present bridge was designed by Thomas Page and was completed in 1862. It is 252 meters (826.8 feet) long, and 26 meters wide. It has seven wrought iron arches across the Thames. Today it stands as the oldest bridge in central London.

The Westminster Bridge is painted green, the same colour of the leather seats in the House of Commons at the Palace of Westminster. A total refurbishment of the bridge was carried out in 2005-2007 when the iron fascias were replaced and the bridge was given a new coat of paint.

How to reach Westminster Bridge

Take the Circle Line, District Line or Jubilee Line to the Westminster Tube Station, at the entrance to the bridge.

The River Thames with the Westminster Bridge and the Palace of Westminster in the background
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Houses_of_Parliament_(6359397111).jpg
Author: Lies Thru a Lens

List of Bridges in London and Bridges in the United Kingdom

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