Pulteney Bridge: One Of Bath's Most Famous Landmarks

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 55 Minutes (40 Miles) From The King John Inn

If you’re looking for the perfect base from which to explore Pulteney Bridge, then look no further than The King John Inn. Located just 40 miles away from the historic centre of Bath, our pub and inn offers 8 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 John Inn From Pulteney Bridge

Nestled inside the beautiful Cranborne Chase on the borders of Wiltshire and Dorset, The King John is a true British country inn.

To reach The King John Inn from the Podium Car Park near Pulteney Bridge, you must head south on Walcot Street (A3039) and then turn right onto Broad Street. Turn right onto Saracen Street and then turn left onto Walcot Street (A3039). Continue for approximately half a mile.

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto London Road (A4) and then turn right onto Cleveland Place. Continue onto Bathwick Street and then turn left onto Beckford Road (A36) and continue for 11 miles.

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A36 and then, at the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A36 for 5 miles. At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on A36 for a further 2 miles.

At Cley Hill Roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A36 and then, at the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A350 and continue for 14 miles. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Little Content Lane A30/A350 and go through 1 roundabout.

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Salisbury Road and then turn right onto Higher Blandford Road (B3081). Continue for 1 mile, turning left to stay on the B3081 and The King John Inn will be on your left.