Hammersmith Bridge, London - a bridge over a body of water under a cloudy sky
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Hammersmith Bridge London

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

Iconic Victorian cast-iron suspension bridge, the first over the Thames, now a pedestrian and cyclist haven with scenic riverside views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
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Hammersmith Bridge, London - a bridge over a body of water under a cloudy sky

Hammersmith Bridge London

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Victorian cast-iron suspension bridge, the first over the Thames, now a pedestrian and cyclist haven with scenic riverside views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It's open for pedestrians and cyclists just fine. Plenty of people do so every single day. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Cycle Across

The bridge is open for pedestrians and cyclists! Enjoy the views without the car traffic. :athletic_shoe:

🍕 Riverside Dining

Grab a pizza from Crisp W6 and enjoy it by the river for a perfect evening. :pizza:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Victorian Architecture

Iconic Victorian Architecture

Across the Thames

Admire the intricate cast-iron design of London's first suspension bridge over the Thames. A true Victorian engineering marvel.

Instagram
Riverside Stroll

Riverside Stroll

South and North Banks

Enjoy scenic walks along the Thames, with stunning views of the bridge and surrounding greenery. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Instagram
Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Crisp W6 Pizzeria

Dine on delicious pizza by the river and watch the sunset paint the sky behind the bridge. A romantic evening spot.

TikTok

Planning Your Visit

Pedestrian Access is Key

Hammersmith Bridge is currently closed to motor vehicles, but remains open for pedestrians and cyclists. Plan your visit with this in mind, as car access is restricted. Reddit

Check Repair Status

While open to foot traffic, ongoing repairs mean timelines can shift. Always check the latest local news or official council updates for any changes to access or repair schedules. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@jrizzyjeremy #driving #lesson #test #london #width #restriction #bridge #hammersmith
@clearviewdriving
93.6K likes • 1.8M views

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Cycle Across

The bridge is open for pedestrians and cyclists! Enjoy the views without the car traffic. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🍕 Riverside Dining

Grab a pizza from Crisp W6 and enjoy it by the river for a perfect evening. TikTok :pizza:

been on my bucket list of things to do whilst in london for a while! pizza did not disappoint 🤤 #whattodoinlondon #eveningsinlondon #londonactivities #londondatespots #fyp #viral #crispw6 #hammersmit...
@demelzamay
85.6K likes • 1.1M views
Easy river walk in london 📌 Putney to Hammersmith Bridge circular walk 🗺️ Distance: 4.5 miles 🚂 How to get there: London Waterloo to Putney. 15 min journey time. ☕️ Food/drink: The clubhouse does g...
zoe.tehrani
5.1K likes • 395.1K views

🗺️ Self-Guided Tours

Explore the Hammersmith area with a self-guided walking tour starting from the station. Instagram :compass:

🚆 Easy Access

Take the train from London Waterloo to Putney for a scenic river walk. Instagram :train:

Comment “Lovely” for a Free map of this walking tour ❤️🥹 Your Self guided walking tour of London’s Hammersmith area: ✅Start this walking tour from Hammersmith Station towards Eventim Apollo and take...
shinewithshanu
0 likes • 19K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Cycle Across

The bridge is open for pedestrians and cyclists! Enjoy the views without the car traffic. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🍕 Riverside Dining

Grab a pizza from Crisp W6 and enjoy it by the river for a perfect evening. TikTok :pizza:

🗺️ Self-Guided Tours

Explore the Hammersmith area with a self-guided walking tour starting from the station. Instagram :compass:

🚆 Easy Access

Take the train from London Waterloo to Putney for a scenic river walk. Instagram :train:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hammersmith Bridge is appreciated for its pedestrian and cyclist access, offering scenic riverside walks and iconic views. While its closure to cars is a point of discussion, the ability to cross on foot or bike is widely welcomed. Some visitors note the ongoing repair works and associated disruptions, but the charm of the Victorian structure and its Thames setting remains a strong draw. Reddit+1

What People Like

Pedestrian and cyclist access
Scenic riverside walks
Iconic Victorian architecture

What People Dislike

Closure to cars
Ongoing repair works

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hammersmith Bridge is accessible via public transport. You can reach the area by tube to Hammersmith Station or by train to Putney Station for a riverside walk. Instagram+1

No, Hammersmith Bridge is currently closed to motor vehicles due to ongoing repairs. It is open for pedestrians and cyclists. Reddit+1

Yes, cyclists can cross Hammersmith Bridge. You may need to dismount and walk your bike across on the footpaths. Reddit

For a scenic walk, consider starting from Putney and walking towards Hammersmith, or vice versa. This offers lovely Thames views. Instagram

Parking near the bridge can be challenging due to its location and ongoing works. Public transport is highly recommended. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hammersmith Bridge is free to access for pedestrians and cyclists. Reddit

The bridge is open for pedestrians and cyclists at all times, though specific repair schedules might affect access for certain groups. Reddit

The primary restriction is for motor vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists are welcome. Reddit

Access to the riverside paths and public areas around Hammersmith Bridge is generally free. Instagram

Check local council websites (e.g., Hammersmith & Fulham Council) or local news outlets for the most current information on repair progress and access. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots from both the north and south banks of the Thames, especially during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can take photos from the bridge while walking or cycling across it, offering unique perspectives of the river and city. Instagram

Try framing the bridge with the river in the foreground or capturing its intricate ironwork up close. The surrounding greenery also adds to the composition. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides beautiful light. Evenings offer a chance to capture city lights reflecting on the water. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in London. Always check the latest Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidelines and local bylaws before flying a drone. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Crisp W6, a pizza place located at The Chancellors pub, offers riverside dining with great views of the bridge. TikTok

Yes, the area around Hammersmith offers various dining options, including pubs and casual eateries that are suitable for families. Instagram

The riverside paths offer pleasant spots for picnics, especially on sunny days. You can enjoy takeaway food from local establishments. TikTok

Crisp W6 specializes in delicious pizzas, perfect for a casual meal by the river. TikTok

Many restaurants in the Hammersmith area offer vegetarian and vegan choices. It's advisable to check menus online or ask staff. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hammersmith Bridge and its surrounding riverside paths are great for families. The flat, pedestrian-friendly routes are safe for children to walk or cycle on. Instagram Consider a picnic along the Thames or a casual pizza meal at Crisp W6 for a relaxed family outing. TikTok The open space allows kids to move around, and the views of the river and bridge provide gentle entertainment. Instagram

Getting there via public transport is straightforward, with stations like Hammersmith and Putney offering easy access. Instagram While the bridge is closed to cars, this actually enhances the safety and enjoyment for families exploring on foot or by bike. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Pedestrian & Cyclist Focus

For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, Hammersmith Bridge is a dream. Its current status as a car-free zone makes it a pleasure to traverse, offering unobstructed views and a peaceful atmosphere. Reddit You can easily incorporate it into longer Thames Path walks or dedicated cycling routes. Instagram+1

Many locals and visitors alike appreciate this car-free access, using it daily for commutes or leisure. Reddit The ability to dismount and walk bikes across ensures accessibility for all cycling abilities. Reddit It's a prime example of how prioritizing non-motorized transport can enhance a public space. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Hammersmith Bridge offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. Its Victorian cast-iron structure provides a beautiful, intricate subject, especially when framed by the Thames. Instagram The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow on the bridge and water. TikTok

Explore both the north and south banks for different perspectives. The riverside paths offer excellent vantage points, and you can capture the bridge's grandeur from various angles. Instagram Evenings can be magical with city lights reflecting on the river, creating a romantic ambiance. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hammersmith Bridge: A History of Resilience

Hammersmith Bridge, an iconic 19th-century cast-iron suspension bridge, holds the distinction of being the first constructed over the River Thames. Designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette and opened in 1887, it was a marvel of Victorian engineering, connecting the north and south banks of London. Its elegant design and robust construction have made it a beloved landmark for over a century. Instagram

However, the bridge has faced significant challenges in recent years. Cracks discovered in its structure led to its closure to motor vehicles in 2020, sparking a complex and costly repair process. This has caused considerable disruption, with debates ongoing about the best course of action and the financial burden of the repairs. Despite these issues, the bridge remains a vital artery for pedestrians and cyclists, symbolizing resilience and the ongoing efforts to preserve London's historic infrastructure. Reddit+1

Recent updates indicate that while car traffic remains suspended, the bridge is open for pedestrians and cyclists, with plans for further reopening phases. The community eagerly awaits its full restoration, highlighting the bridge's enduring importance to local life and its status as a cherished piece of London's heritage. Reddit+1

Exploring the Riverside: Walks and Views

The areas surrounding Hammersmith Bridge offer delightful riverside walks, perfect for a leisurely day out. A popular route is the circular walk from Putney to Hammersmith, approximately 4.5 miles, which provides continuous views of the Thames and its iconic bridge. Instagram This path is relatively flat and accessible, making it ideal for families and casual walkers. TikTok

Along the riverbanks, you'll find charming spots to relax, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps even have a picnic. The proximity to pubs and eateries, like The Chancellors with its Crisp W6 pizzeria, adds to the appeal, allowing visitors to combine a scenic stroll with a meal or a drink. TikTok The ever-changing light on the water and the bridge itself offers a dynamic backdrop for photography, with golden hour being particularly spectacular. Instagram

These riverside explorations are a fantastic way to experience a quieter, more scenic side of London, away from the bustling city center. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer walk, the Thames path near Hammersmith Bridge provides a refreshing escape and beautiful vistas. Instagram+1

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