Barnes Railway Bridge

Barnes Railway Bridge spans the River Thames in west London, linking the boroughs of Richmond upon Thames and Hounslow. It carries the South Western Railway’s Hounslow Loop Line between Barnes Bridge and Chiswick stations. The bridge also has a pedestrian walkway, making it one of only three in London that serve both rail and foot traffic. Two earlier versions stood on the site, the first built in 1849 to a design by Joseph Locke. The present structure, completed in 1895, replaced the original cast iron spans after engineers grew uneasy about their long-term safety. The bridge’s wrought iron bow string girders were designed by Edward Andrews and built by Head Wrightson. Three main spans rest on extended brick piers faced with Bramley Fall stone. A single 2.4-metre-wide footpath runs alongside the railway tracks. The older Locke spans remain in place upstream, though they have not carried trains since the 1890s. In 1983 the bridge was granted Grade II listed status for its engineering significance. Visitors can walk across the bridge to enjoy views upriver towards Barnes village or downriver towards Chiswick. The Thames Path is routed away from the bridge because of limited riverside space. During the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race the walkway is closed to prevent overcrowding. The bridge’s piers carry the coat of arms with light and dark blue oars, marking its place in the annual race.