Chiswick Bridge: Historic Thames Crossing and Riverside Landmark
Historic Thames crossing with stunning river views, iconic Boat Race proximity, and charming riverside walks in West London.
Chiswick Bridge is a reinforced concrete deck arch bridge spanning the River Thames in West London, linking Chiswick and Mortlake. Opened in 1933, it features a 185-meter length with five arches, including the longest concrete span over the Thames at the time. The bridge carries road traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, and is renowned for its proximity to the Boat Race finish line and scenic riverside views along the Thames Path.
A brief summary to Chiswick Bridge
- Great Chertsey Rd, London, W4 3UL, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the annual Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race to experience the bridge’s festive pedestrian-only atmosphere.
- Explore the Thames Path towpath beneath the bridge for scenic riverside walks and jogging routes.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic views of the Thames and nearby green spaces from the bridge’s vantage points.
- Stop by local pubs and cafes near the bridge, such as The Old Ship, for refreshments with a riverside ambiance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the District Line to Chiswick Park or Turnham Green stations, followed by a 15-20 minute walk or a local bus ride to Chiswick Bridge. Bus routes crossing the bridge provide frequent service, with fares typically between £1.75 and £3.50 using contactless payment.
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Boat
Arrive via the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service, which stops near Hammersmith Pier. From there, a 20-minute riverside walk along the Thames Path leads to Chiswick Bridge. Boat fares range from £6 to £12 depending on the route and time.
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Cycling
Cycle along the dedicated Thames Path towpath or local cycle routes to reach Chiswick Bridge. The bridge features well-maintained pedestrian and cycling paths. Cycling is free and offers scenic views but be cautious of river tides affecting the towpath.
Chiswick Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Chiswick Bridge
Engineering Marvel of the 1930s
Chiswick Bridge was completed in 1933 as part of a major infrastructure project to alleviate traffic congestion west of London. Designed by architect Herbert Baker and constructed by Cleveland Bridge & Engineering Company, it replaced a former ferry crossing. The bridge is a reinforced concrete deck arch structure, 606 feet (185 meters) long, with five arches—three crossing the river and two spanning the former towpaths. Its 150-foot (46-meter) central span was the longest concrete span over the Thames at the time, showcasing advanced engineering techniques of the era. The bridge is faced with 3,400 tons of Portland stone, giving it a distinctive and elegant appearance.Connection and Community Impact
Chiswick Bridge connects the suburbs of Chiswick on the north bank and Mortlake on the south bank, serving as a vital artery for road traffic along the A316. It supports a high volume of daily commuters traveling between central and southwest London. The bridge also integrates well with public transport, with several bus routes crossing it and nearby Tube stations facilitating access. Its pedestrian and cycling pathways are well maintained, making it an important link for non-motorized transport and leisure activities along the Thames.Riverside Atmosphere and Scenic Views
The bridge offers panoramic views of the River Thames and the surrounding green spaces. It is located near the finish line of The Championship Course, the famous stretch of river used for the annual Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, marked by a University Boat Race Stone and colorful obelisks on the southern shore. The towpath beneath the bridge on the southern bank forms part of the Thames Path, popular for walking, jogging, and cycling. The riverside area around Chiswick Bridge is dotted with charming pubs and cafes, enhancing the relaxed and picturesque atmosphere.Architectural and Environmental Features
The bridge’s five-arch cellular reinforced concrete superstructure is supported by a concealed lattice of columns and beams rising from the arches. Its Portland stone facing, except beneath the arches, adds to its classic aesthetic. The approach roads are elevated to provide sufficient clearance for river traffic. Although the bridge is primarily functional, it also contributes to the scenic landscape of West London’s riverbanks, complementing nearby parks and riverside walks.Preservation and Current Use
Chiswick Bridge remains a key transport route and is the eighth busiest Thames road bridge in London. It is regularly maintained to address issues such as spalling and corrosion of steel reinforcements caused by environmental exposure. The northernmost arch is used by local rowing clubs for storage, highlighting the bridge’s ongoing connection to river sports. Occasionally, the bridge is closed for special events like the Boat Race, allowing pedestrian-only access and enhancing the visitor experience.Local Character and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Chiswick Bridge can enjoy its blend of historic significance, engineering prowess, and natural beauty. The surrounding neighborhood offers inviting riverside walks, lively pubs, and excellent spots for photography, especially during spring sunsets. The area’s accessibility and amenities make it a favored destination for both locals and tourists seeking a tranquil yet vibrant riverside experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Charlotte's Cottage
2.4 km
Discover the charming 18th-century rustic retreat of Queen Charlotte nestled in Kew Gardens' tranquil woodland and royal heritage.
Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford
3.0 km
Modern aparthotel in Brentford offering spacious apartments, fitness facilities, and easy access to Heathrow and central London.
Richmond Hill - Viewing Point
3.0 km
Britain's only parliamentary-protected view, where the Thames winds through timeless meadowland.
Richmond Bridge
3.1 km
Richmond Bridge, London's oldest Thames crossing, blends 18th-century Palladian elegance with timeless riverside charm.
Hammersmith Bridge
3.4 km
Victorian engineering marvel spanning the Thames with a turbulent history of bombs, closures, and remarkable resilience.
Mr Mathias Winkler
3.8 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Barmy Arms
4.9 km
Charming riverside pub in Twickenham offering scenic Thames views, classic pub fare, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Church Street Twickenham
4.9 km
Discover Twickenham’s charming Church Street, a vibrant hub of independent shops, historic pubs, and community spirit nestled near the town centre.
Queen Victoria Monument
5.3 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Sambourne House
5.9 km
Explore the authentic Victorian charm of Sambourne House, a historical gem in Kensington that reveals the life and art of Edward Linley Sambourne.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
5.9 km
Explore the Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great in London, a striking tribute to history, culture, and architectural beauty.
Strawberry Hill House & Garden
6.0 km
Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival architecture and historic gardens of Strawberry Hill House, a captivating heritage site in Twickenham.
Teddington Riverside
6.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and modern charm of Teddington Riverside, a perfect retreat along the iconic Thames River.
Cannizaro Park
6.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Cannizaro Park in London, a perfect retreat with stunning gardens, tranquil lakes, and peaceful walking paths.
142 Cromwell Rd
6.2 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Unmissable attractions to see
The National Archives
1.1 km
Explore a millennium of British history through original documents, exhibitions, and tranquil grounds at The National Archives in Kew.
Richmond Park Rd
1.3 km
Elegant residential street offering serene access to Richmond Park, London’s largest Royal Park and a haven for nature and history enthusiasts.
Chiswick House and Gardens
1.5 km
Explore the birthplace of the English Landscape Garden and a stunning 18th-century Palladian villa set in 65 acres of historic, free-to-enter gardens.
Marianne North Gallery
1.6 km
Explore over 800 vibrant botanical paintings by pioneering Victorian artist Marianne North in a unique gallery at Kew Gardens.
Hogarth's House
1.8 km
Step into the tranquil 18th-century home of William Hogarth, where art, history, and garden stories blend in Chiswick’s peaceful retreat.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
1.9 km
Explore Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending historic beauty, botanical diversity, and immersive garden experiences in Richmond, London.
Olympic Studios
2.0 km
Historic Olympic Studios in Barnes blends legendary music heritage with a boutique cinema experience in a beautifully restored Edwardian venue.
Turnham Green
2.1 km
A historic and beautifully landscaped green oasis at the heart of Chiswick, blending heritage, community, and urban charm.
Christ Church Turnham Green
2.1 km
Historic Gothic revival Anglican church and vibrant community hub nestled on Turnham Green in Chiswick, London.
London Museum of Water & Steam
2.3 km
Explore Victorian steam engines and the story of London's water supply at this historic Brentford museum with interactive exhibits and a steam railway.
The Musical Museum
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting world of self-playing instruments and live Wurlitzer concerts at Brentford’s Musical Museum.
Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust
2.4 km
A serene urban nature reserve in Chiswick offering diverse habitats, rich wildlife, and a peaceful escape just steps from the city.
Premium Tours
2.4 km
Discover the best of London with Premium Tours, offering diverse sightseeing experiences and knowledgeable guides to enhance your journey.
Richmond Green
2.9 km
Richmond Green: A historic Tudor and Georgian urban park offering tranquil green space and rich royal heritage in the heart of Richmond-upon-Thames.
One Paved Court
2.9 km
An intimate artist-run gallery in historic Richmond, showcasing innovative contemporary art in a charming Georgian setting.
Essential places to dine
La Rosetta Restaurant
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality at La Rosetta, a beloved Brentford dining destination.
The Petersham Restaurant
3.2 km
Elegant British fine dining with stunning Thames views in Richmond’s historic mid-Victorian setting.
A Cena
3.3 km
Refined Southern Italian dining with generous portions, warm ambience, and a curated cocktail bar in the heart of East Twickenham.
Man vs Food
4.2 km
Bold American flavours and massive portions meet lively challenges in Isleworth’s vibrant Man Vs Food diner.
Il Portico
5.6 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
6.1 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
6.2 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
6.2 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
6.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
Dishoom Kensington
6.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Alexandrie Restaurant
6.3 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Grato
6.4 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Core by Clare Smyth
6.4 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
6.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Gold
6.4 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stuff
4.9 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming West London boutique with a personal touch and curated collections.
The London Heritage
5.0 km
A boutique heritage hotel in Canary Wharf blending historic elegance with modern luxury and wellness amenities.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
5.6 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
5.6 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
the Design Museum Shop
5.7 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
5.8 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Kensington High St
6.3 km
Discover London’s vibrant shopping heart, where high-end boutiques meet local charm and royal parks.
Jigsaw
6.3 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Good
6.4 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
London Souvenir Kensington
6.4 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
6.4 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
Always & Forever - Wedding Dresses London
6.4 km
Premier family-run bridal boutique in Hounslow offering over 700 gowns and personalized, pressure-free service for your perfect wedding dress.
The Blue Door
6.4 km
Discover stylish clothing and unique hats at The Blue Door, a charming boutique nestled in the lively heart of Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Notting hill store
6.4 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
Urban Outfitters
6.4 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
London Apprentice
3.5 km
Historic Georgian riverside pub in Isleworth offering classic ales, scenic Thames views, and lively community events.
The Curtains Up
4.5 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
Star & Scorpion
5.3 km
A lively gastropub in West Ealing serving American-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and featuring private heated cabins with Sky Sports.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
5.8 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Sussex Arms
6.2 km
A lively gastropub in Twickenham offering craft ales, hearty British dishes, and a welcoming beer garden for all seasons.
Prince of Wales
6.4 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
The Builders Arms
6.4 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
6.4 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
The Elgin
6.4 km
Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
6.4 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The M Bar
6.4 km
Experience the best of mobile catering and cocktails at The M Bar, a must-visit destination for food lovers and event planners in New Malden.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
6.4 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
Naked & Famous Bar
6.4 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
6.5 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
The Week
6.5 km
Cozy Notting Hill bar on Elgin Crescent, blending craft cocktails and warm vibes in West London's chicest corner. Ideal for intimate evenings amid Victorian charm.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
