Have you ever wondered how a bridge can be a symbol of resilience? Look at Chertsey Bridge, with its seven graceful arches spanning the River Thames. This bridge, built in 1785, has seen it all, from floods to wars and even the ravages of time. Chertsey Bridge is a Grade II* listed building, a testament to its historical significance and architectural beauty. This isn’t just any bridge; it’s a proud symbol of the town’s history. It connects Chertsey to the village of Laleham on the opposite side of the Thames. The bridge was constructed with Purbeck limestone, a type of stone known for its durability. This beautiful, strong stone was used for the five arches over the river, and the two arches on either side, sometimes called “flood arches”, have brick rings with limestone voussoirs.
But Chertsey Bridge wasn’t always a sturdy stone structure. The first recorded crossing at this spot was a ferry, run by a woman named Sibille in 1300. She would ferry passengers, including King Edward I, across the Thames for the princely sum of three shillings. The first bridge, probably built of wood, was likely constructed by John de Rutherwyke, the abbot of Chertsey from 1307 to 1346. The wooden bridge was prone to damage from boats, and it was often repaired and replaced.
Through the centuries, it wasn’t just boats that posed a threat to the bridge. In October 1891, a barge broke free during a flood and crashed into one of the piers, forcing the bridge to be closed while repairs were made. Imagine living in a time when a bridge closure meant having to find another way across the river, a detour to a bustling London, or even a trek by foot. It was even closed in 1991 when a structural survey highlighted some safety concerns. With the use of a temporary Bailey bridge, vehicles could pass through again, and the repairs were completed in mid-December 1991. Since then, Chertsey Bridge has remained a lifeline for the town, connecting its people with the outside world and with their history. Remember, when you see Chertsey Bridge, you’re not just looking at a bridge—you’re looking at a story of resilience, change, and the enduring spirit of a town that has spanned centuries.