Bristol Avon Bridge
Has been described as a Certain Fortified Bridge
There are no visible remains
| Name | Bristol Avon Bridge |
| Alternative Names | |
| Historic Country | Gloucestershire |
| Modern Authority | Bristol; City of |
| 1974 Authority | Avon |
| Civil Parish | Bristol |
Bristol Bridge, built in stone in 1247-8, probably on the site of an earlier timber bridge, acquired a superstructure of houses and shops, and, from 1361, a chapel. An oak sill 40 feet long, discovered in 1747 embedded in the masonry, was thought to be part of thee pre-1247 timber structure. The bridge was demolished and replaced in 1768. (PastScape 1008177)
The Chapel of Our Lady of the Assumption, dedicated in 1361, stood in the centre of Bristol bridge. Its remains were probably destroyed by a fire of 1646. (PastScape 1007680)
The Chapel of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was 75 feet by 21 feet. It stretched right across the centre of the bridge and out beyond it on either side, supported on extended piers. There was even a bell-tower. At street level was a crypt used by the Council for meetings. On the next floor was the chapel, which ran over a tunnel-like gateway with gates at either end. This magnificent structure was finished in 1361. It was closed at the Reformation along with other bridge chapels, which were seen as superstious. The building was converted to other purposes until finally taken down. (Jean Manco 2005)
The bridge is built over wth houses just as London bridge is, but its not so bigg or Long-there are 4 arches here. (Celia Fiennes)
Not scheduled
Not Listed
Historic England (PastScape) Defra or Monument number(s)
County Historic Environment Record
| OS Map Grid Reference | ST590729 |
| Latitude | 51.4536781311035 |
| Longitude | -2.59142994880676 |
| Eastings | 359000 |
| Northings | 172910 |
