Tom Clarke Bridge, County Dublin Travel Guide

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A vital Dublin crossing, the Tom Clarke Bridge links the city's north and south while offering views of the River Liffey and Dublin Port.

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Tom Clarke Bridge

The Tom Clarke Bridge, also known as the East-Link Bridge, is a vital crossing over the River Liffey in Dublin, connecting the North Wall and Ringsend. A tolled bascule lifting bridge, it provides passage for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.

A brief summary to Tom Clarke Bridge

R131, Dublin, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tom Clarke Bridge.

Visit during sunset for the best photographic opportunities.
Combine your visit with a stroll along the River Liffey for a complete experience.
Check local events, as the bridge often serves as a backdrop for festivals and celebrations.

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Explore Tom Clarke Bridge on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tom Clarke Bridge, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From O'Connell Street in the city center, walk south across the O'Connell Bridge. Continue onto D'Olier Street, which becomes Westmoreland Street. Turn right onto Fleet Street, then left onto Aston Quay. The Tom Clarke Bridge will be ahead.
Public Transport

Take a bus to North Wall Quay (3Arena) or Br An Phoirt Thoir, which are the closest bus stations to the Tom Clarke Bridge. The bridge is a short walk away. Alternatively, take the DART to Pearse Station. From there, walk east toward the River Liffey, then turn left and follow the riverbank to the bridge.
Driving

The Tom Clarke Bridge is part of the R131 regional road. Note that it is a toll bridge; the toll for cars is €2.30. There are several car parks in the vicinity, including Q-Park The Spire, with rates starting at €4.20 for up to 2 hours. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

Discover more about Tom Clarke Bridge

The Tom Clarke Bridge, more commonly known as the East-Link Bridge, is the easternmost road crossing of Dublin's River Liffey. Officially named Tom Clarke Bridge in 2016 to honor Irish republican Thomas Clarke, it's a bascule-type lifting bridge that connects North Wall to Ringsend.Opened on October 21, 1984, the bridge was the first privately funded major road in Ireland in the 20th century. It was designed to ease traffic congestion and facilitate the movement of HGVs around the port area. The bridge features a lifting span that opens to allow river traffic to pass, typically raised several times a day.While primarily functional, the Tom Clarke Bridge offers impressive views of Dublin Port and Dublin Bay. To the west, one can see the Samuel Beckett Bridge and the city center. Dublin Port is planning to construct new lifting bridges, one for pedestrians and cyclists and the other for internal port traffic. The project is expected to start in 2027 and be completed around 2029.