Westminster Bridge, located in Westminster, London, is an iconic structure that spans the River Thames. The bridge connects Westminster on the north side of the river to Lambeth on the south side. It is one of the oldest bridges in London, and its history is rich with fascinating details and trivia.
The original Westminster Bridge was opened in 1750 and was only the second bridge to be built across the Thames in London, after London Bridge. The bridge was designed by the Swiss engineer Charles Labelye. Due to structural issues and increasing traffic, the original bridge was replaced by the current structure, which was opened in 1862. The new bridge was designed by the engineer Thomas Page and is known for its elegant Gothic style, which complements the nearby Palace of Westminster.
One of the bridge's most distinctive features is its color scheme. Westminster Bridge is painted predominantly green, which is said to be in honor of the green leather benches in the House of Commons. This contrasts with the Lambeth Bridge, which is painted red to match the benches in the House of Lords.
The bridge has a total of seven arches and spans 252 meters (827 feet) in length. It is 26 meters (85 feet) wide, making it one of the broadest bridges across the Thames. The bridge's Gothic-style lanterns and ironwork were designed by Charles Barry, who also worked on the Palace of Westminster.
A lesser-known fact about Westminster Bridge is its role in literature and film. It is famously featured in William Wordsworth's poem "Composed upon Westminster Bridge, September 3, 1802," which describes the beauty of London seen from the bridge at dawn. The bridge has also appeared in numerous films, including the opening scene of the 2002 film "28 Days Later," where the protagonist walks across an eerily deserted London.
Westminster Bridge has also been the site of several significant historical events. In 1834, a major fire that destroyed much of the Palace of Westminster was witnessed from the bridge. More recently, in 2017, a tragic terrorist attack took place on the bridge, resulting in the loss of several lives.
The bridge plays a crucial role in London's transport network, carrying both vehicles and pedestrians. It offers one of the best vantage points for viewing some of London’s most famous landmarks, including the London Eye, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.
In summary, Westminster Bridge is not just a functional piece of infrastructure but a historical and cultural landmark. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and significant role in London's urban landscape make it a subject of enduring interest and importance.