Swing Bridge

The Swing Bridge, dated 1838, is located in South Yard at Devonport Dockyard in Plymouth. This bridge is constructed of cast iron and granite, featuring two equal halves supported by four cross-braced ribs, which create a segmental arch. The timber walkway spans the bridge, and the outer ribs display a dated key with "HORSLEY IRONWORKS/NEAR BIRMINGHAM" cast on the sides. Each side of the bridge has abutments with banded rustication that support the structure on bearings, which include a cogged wheel that is manually turned by handles. The design is very similar to a swing bridge built around 1835 in the Royal William Victualling Yard. This bridge is part of a notable group of 18th and 19th-century naval dock buildings.