134 - The first bridge recorded over the River Ouse at the present site of Ouse Bridge was made of wood in Viking times. This bridge collapsed into the river in 1154 because too many people were standing on it at the same time when awaiting the arrival of St William of York, who was returning to the city.
It's replacement also partly collapsed in 1565. A further bridge was completed and lasted until 1812, when it was replaced by the current structure. This has since been considerably widened.
In many ways it is one of the most attractive of York's bridges. Towards the right hand side of the photo is a measuring gauge, where the height of floods can be measured. The record flood of 2000 was almost 18 feet above normal river level, and so would have been pretty close to the top of the arch.
Thank you Bob - York has an interesting collection of bridges, and although I agree that generally older bridges are more attractive, there are exceptions and some modern bridges can impress - see http://365project.org/if1/365/2012-03-28
July 20th, 2012
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Thank you Junan, glad you like it!
Thank you Caren, I think the type of stone used adds to it's attractiveness.
Thank you Brian, and it still carries quite a lot of heavy traffic!
Thank you Brian!
Thank you Marie - but I am cheating by avoiding places I know little about!
Thank you Jane, glad you are enjoying the tour with commentary!
Thank you Lizzy - the tour of York continues....!
Thank you Bob - York has an interesting collection of bridges, and although I agree that generally older bridges are more attractive, there are exceptions and some modern bridges can impress - see http://365project.org/if1/365/2012-03-28