Free Entry
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours
Address:
Ironbridge, Telford, Shropshire, TF8 7JP
The world's first iron bridge was erected over the River Severn here in Shropshire in 1779. This pioneering structure marked a turning point in English design and engineering; after it was built, cast iron came to be widely used in the construction of bridges, aqueducts and buildings.
The Iron Bridge's story began in the early 18th century, in the nearby village of Coalbrookdale. Abraham Darby pioneered the smelting of iron using coke, a process that was a catalyst for the Industrial Revolution. It was Abraham Darby III who cast the ironwork for the bridge that still stands today, using the same techniques developed by his grandfather. The bridge was so successful that it gave its name to the spectacular wooded valley which surrounds it, now recognised as the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.
In 2017-18 English Heritage undertook a £3.6m conservation project on the Iron Bridge, to help safeguard the future of its historic ironwork. Find out more.
Before You Go
Access: The bridge is wheelchair accessible. The Station Yard car park is very nearby (not managed by English Heritage). Please be aware the bridge is not lit at night.
Facilities: There are a variety of facilities and places to eat in Ironbridge.
Parking: There is a car park nearby, not managed by English Heritage. Parking charges apply.
Please be aware: English Heritage does not permit drone flying from or over sites in our care, except by contractors or partners undertaking flights for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and permissions, and are operating under controlled conditions.
Plan a Great Day Out
The Iron Bridge is the perfect place to begin a tour of Ironbridge Gorge. Now a peaceful valley, the gorge was once at the very heart of industry and engineering. Plan a visit to one of the museums and find out about the history of the area. There are also a number of other English Heritage sites nearby, including Buildwas Abbey, Wenlock Priory and Wroxeter Roman City.
Just ten miles away from Iron Bridge there is Boscobel House and the Royal Oak. The future King Charles II sought shelter here from Oliver Cromwell's men after being defeated at Worcester in 1651.
Dont Miss - Heritage Open Days 10 and 11 September 10 am -1pm
English Heritage Volunteers will be on the Iron Bridge sharing their expert knowledge of the site and community with our visitors.
Gallery for Iron Bridge
