Henley Bridge

Henley Bridge, built in 1786, is a significant structure designed by William Hayward, who passed away in 1782 before construction began. The bridge features five arches with a rusticated treatment at the base of the interval piers. It has a dentil cornice below a balustrade adorned with metal lamp posts, fluted plinths, and four cherub heads. Each end of the bridge displays a metal plaque instructing drivers of "engines."

Notably, the southern retaining wall of the eastern abutment is partially built on the original 12th-century bridge, which includes a segmental vault made of shuttered flint rubble masonry with Barnack stone dressings. The southern arch consists of two square orders, while the northern arch is likely similar but partially hidden by an 18th-century blocking wall. This bridge is believed to have been constructed by Henry II in the 1170s, with historical records indicating that he acquired land in Henley for building purposes in 1179.

Henley Bridge is part of a group that includes No 52, the Angel Hotel, St Mary’s Church, The Red Lion Hotel and Stables, and No 18 Thameside, marking an important entrance into the town.