Waterloo Bridge

Waterloo Bridge is a cast iron road bridge built between 1815 and 1816 by engineer Thomas Telford. It is a key part of the new Shrewsbury to Holyhead road (A5), which was a significant achievement in engineering and road construction at the time. Originally known as Llynnon Bridge, it is considered the seventh major iron bridge in the world and features a span of over 30 meters, showcasing early iron technology. The bridge's decorative elements and its inscription, which commemorates the year of the Battle of Waterloo, reflect a spirit of confidence and optimism during a pivotal time in Britain's industrial and political development. The bridge was founded by W. Hazeldine, with W. Stuttle serving as the construction foreman.

The bridge has a wide single span with masonry springing. The segmental arch includes cast lettering that states, "This arch was constructed in the same year the battle of Waterloo was fought." The spandrels feature bold foliate decorations representing national emblems, including the rose, thistle, shamrock, and leek, some of which are partially polychromed. At the western end, the raised lettering reads, "Thomas Telford Engineer," while the eastern end displays the names of the founder and foreman along with the date 1815. The arch soffit has been reinforced with modern concrete coffering, and the simple cast iron balustrades have been slightly cantilevered outwards in recent years. Waterloo Bridge is listed as Grade I due to its significant design and as an important example of early iron technology.