The Iron Bridge

The Iron Bridge, built in 1778, represents a groundbreaking achievement as the world’s first bridge constructed from cold-blast iron. Abraham Darby III designed it, and the iron components were cast at Coalbrookdale. The structure now serves as a footbridge only. The roadway is raised on both sides, culminating in a central span of approximately 100 feet. It features a semicircular arch, composed of two concentric arch-rings interconnected by a delicate filigree of members. Each spandrel contains a circular and an ogee-arched panel. Two subsidiary arches are present on the south bank. A thin iron parapet with railings runs along the bridge. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument.