A Visitor's Guide To Bath: Exploring Pulteney Bridge

One of only four bridges worldwide to have shops across its full span on both sides, Pulteney Bridge is a stunning example of Georgian architecture that attracts throngs of tourists every year.

Delightful Architecture Just 30 Minutes (15 Miles) From The King’s Arms

If you’re looking for the perfect base from which to explore Pulteney Bridge, then look no further than The King’s Arms. Located just 15 miles away from the historic centre of Bath, our pub and inn offers 13 sumptuous en-suite bedrooms, delicious drinks and mouthwatering pub grub.

History Of Pulteney Bridge

Pulteney Bridge was the brainchild of William Johnstone, an important man during Bath’s Georgian era.

William and his wife, Francis Pulteney (after whom the bridge takes its name), had inherited a 600 acre rural estate which was separated from the main city of Bath by the River Avon. With grand plans to transform the estate into a spectacular new suburb of Bath, William called upon his friend and renowned architect Robert Adam to design a magnificent bridge to connect his land with the city.

Inspired by the shop-lined bridges of Ponte Vecchio and Rialto Bridge during his travels to Florence and Venice, Adam proposed a similar design for Pulteney, and the bridge was successfully constructed between 1770 and 1774.

Pulteney Bridge Today

Today, Pulteney Bridge is designated as a Grade I listed building.

Predominantly pedestrian-only, buses, taxis and bicycles are still able to cross this famous landmark.

As one of the most photographed attractions in the area, a visit to Pulteney Bridge is essential when visiting Bath.

Pulteney Bridge Palladian Style

Pulteney Bridge was constructed in a Palladian style, which was made famous by the Italian architect Andrea Palladio in the 16th century.

The architect responsible for Pulteney Bridge, Robert Adam, took inspiration from Palladio’s designs when he visited the Ponte Vecchio bridge which spans the river Arno in Florence, Italy.

While the Palladian style is modest in comparison to other styles from the same era, Pulteney Bridge is a remarkable structure that is one of Bath’s most visited attractions.

Pulteney Bridge In Film & Books

Featuring an all-star cast, the Oscar-winning musical film Les Misérables shot scenes in Bath, with Pulteney Bridge and its horseshow weir used as the location where Javert, played by Russell Crowe, takes his own life by dramatically plunging into the River Seine.

Pulteney Bridge has also featured in many novels including ‘Bleed for Me’ by award-winning crime fiction writer Michael Robotham, ‘Spring Music’ by best-selling novelist Elvi Rhodes and ‘Missing You’ by romance author Louise Douglas.

Things To Do At Pulteney Bridge

As mentioned, Pulteney Bridge is one of Bath’s most popular landmarks, with plenty of locals and tourists around at all times. When visiting, ensure that you:

Take Plenty Of Photos

The bridge, weir and shops are all snapped regularly by visitors to Pulteney Bridge. With no shortage of opportunities, you should get plenty of shots for your photo album and social media accounts.

Walk Back And Forth To See The Shops

With shops on either side of the bridge, it can be easy to miss them. Take the time to walk back and forth to explore each shop and the local gifts on offer.

Enjoy Some Coffee & Cake

Whether you are on the bridge, next to the bridge or near the bridge, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in a hot drink and a sweet treat. With many independent coffee shops and larger chains nearby, there will be something to satisfy your cravings.

Directions To The King's Arms From Pulteney Bridge

The King’s Arms is an 18th-century pub and inn in the heart of Melksham, just 15 miles from the centre of Bath, making it the perfect place to drink, dine or stay.

To reach The King’s Arms from Pulteney Bridge (assuming you drove and parked in The Podium Car Park) you must head south on Walcot Street before very quickly turning right onto Broad Street and then right again onto Saracen Street.

Turn left onto Walcot Street and head north before taking the 2nd exit at the roundabout onto London Road. At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the A4 slip road to Chippenham/Bradford-on-Avon (A363).

Merge onto the A4 for 1 mile, before taking the 3rd exit onto Bradford Road (A363). Take a slight left onto Bathford Hill before continuing on High Street for 3 miles and then taking a slight right onto the A365.

Continue for approximately 5 miles before using the left lane to turn right onto Beanacre Road (A350). At Farmers Roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Bradford Road (A3102) and then continue straight at the next roundabout. When you reach the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto High Street and continue straight towards Market Place where you will find The King’s Arms on your left.