Porthill Footbridge
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Porthill Footbridge

4.8
·28 reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic, swaying suspension bridge over the River Severn, connecting Quarry Park to The Boathouse pub.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
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Porthill Footbridge

Porthill Footbridge

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic, swaying suspension bridge over the River Severn, connecting Quarry Park to The Boathouse pub.

4.8
(28 reviews)

"It's a cool old bridge. Very sturdy but you can feel it bounce when you walk on it which is an unusual feeling."

Vertical photo
TIP

Feel the Bounce!

Embrace the bridge's sway – it's part of the unique experience! :wave:

Park & Dine Combo

Combine a walk through Quarry Park with a meal at The Boathouse. :knifeforkplate:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Suspension Bridge

The Suspension Bridge

River Severn

Feel the unique sway of this historic 1922 suspension bridge connecting Quarry Park to The Boathouse.

The Boathouse Pub Terrace

The Boathouse Pub Terrace

Adjacent to the bridge

Enjoy outdoor dining with stunning views of the river, bridge, and park.

The Dingle/Quarry Park

The Dingle/Quarry Park

Connected by the bridge

A lovely park with a water area, perfect for families and a peaceful stroll.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sway!

This historic suspension bridge offers a unique, bouncy experience. If you're uneasy with movement, be aware before you cross! It's a fantastic connection between Quarry Park and The Boathouse pub.

Park & Pub Perfection

Combine your bridge visit with a stroll through The Dingle/Quarry Park. The Boathouse pub, accessible via the bridge, offers lovely riverside dining with great views.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend lunchtimes
Why
Lively atmosphere at pub
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Feel the Bounce!

Embrace the bridge's sway – it's part of the unique experience! :wave:

Park & Dine Combo

Combine a walk through Quarry Park with a meal at The Boathouse. :knifeforkplate:

Photo Opportunities

Great spot for unique photos of the bridge and river. :camerawithflash:

Parking Nearby

Park in the city center and enjoy the scenic walk across the bridge. :car:

Tips

from all over the internet

Feel the Bounce!

Embrace the bridge's sway – it's part of the unique experience! :wave:

Park & Dine Combo

Combine a walk through Quarry Park with a meal at The Boathouse. :knifeforkplate:

Photo Opportunities

Great spot for unique photos of the bridge and river. :camerawithflash:

Parking Nearby

Park in the city center and enjoy the scenic walk across the bridge. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique, swaying experience of the historic Porthill Footbridge, calling it a 'cool old bridge' that adds to the town's charm. The bridge's connection to The Boathouse pub and Quarry Park is a major draw, offering lovely riverside dining and park exploration. While the sway is a highlight for many, it's noted as a potential concern for those easily unsettled.

"I recently visited this place, and it truly has something for everyone. There’s a lovely park with a water area, making it a perfect spot for families. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, with such a warm and welcoming community.

One of the highlights is the stunning suspension bridge over the River Severn. It connects The Dingle/Quarry Park directly to The Boathouse pub, where you can enjoy outdoor dining on the terrace with beautiful views of the river, the bridge, and the park."

Yusra Aijaz

"It's a cool old bridge. Very sturdy but you can feel it bounce when you walk on it which is an unusual feeling. The antiquity of the bridge adds to the historic feel of the town."

Pranav

"We parked in the city center and walked across this beautiful bridge to get to the Boathouse restaurant."

Catherine Hunt

What People Like

Unique swaying sensation
Historic charm
Riverside views

What People Dislike

Bridge sway can be unsettling

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The bridge is easily accessible by foot from Shrewsbury's city center. Many visitors park in the city center and walk across the bridge to reach The Boathouse pub or explore Quarry Park. Reddit

While there isn't direct parking at the bridge itself, ample parking is available in Shrewsbury's city center, making it a convenient starting point for your visit. Reddit

Yes, Shrewsbury is well-served by public transport. You can take a bus or train to Shrewsbury and then enjoy a pleasant walk to the Porthill Footbridge.

Many visitors enjoy walking from the city center, crossing the bridge, and then visiting The Boathouse pub or exploring The Dingle/Quarry Park. Reddit

The bridge is primarily a pedestrian footbridge. While some may cycle across, it's best suited for walking to fully appreciate the experience and ensure safety.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, crossing the Porthill Footbridge is completely free of charge. It serves as a public walkway connecting two key areas. Reddit

As an outdoor public walkway, the bridge is accessible at all times. However, amenities like The Boathouse pub will have their own operating hours. Reddit

The Dingle/Quarry Park is a public park and generally free to enter, allowing for enjoyable exploration before or after crossing the bridge.

It's advisable to book a table at The Boathouse, especially during peak times or weekends, to secure a spot on their popular terrace. Reddit

The main consideration is the bridge's sway, which might be unsettling for some. Otherwise, it's a freely accessible public structure.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The bridge is a historic suspension bridge known for its noticeable 'sway' as you walk across it, offering a unique and slightly bouncy sensation. Reddit

The bridge is a pedestrian walkway. While it's a sturdy structure, the sway might make it challenging for those with mobility issues or with very young children in strollers. Assess your comfort level before crossing. Reddit

From the bridge, you get lovely views of the River Severn, the surrounding parkland, and the charming Boathouse pub. It's a great spot for photos. Reddit

The Dingle/Quarry Park is a beautiful green space featuring a water area, making it a pleasant spot for families and a peaceful retreat. Reddit

Yes, the bridge is a sturdy, historic structure built in 1922. The sway is a characteristic feature, not an indication of instability. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The most convenient dining option is The Boathouse pub, directly accessible from the bridge, offering outdoor terrace dining with river views. Reddit

The Boathouse typically offers a menu of pub classics and contemporary dishes, with a focus on enjoying the riverside setting. Reddit

Absolutely! The Boathouse is a pub, so you can enjoy a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, perfect for a break after crossing the bridge. Reddit

Yes, The Boathouse is generally family-friendly, especially with its outdoor terrace offering space and views that children might enjoy. Reddit

While The Boathouse is the most immediate option, Shrewsbury's city center, a short walk away, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique sway of the bridge itself, the panoramic views of the River Severn, and the picturesque setting of The Boathouse pub from its terrace. Reddit

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful lighting for capturing the bridge and river. Midday can also be good for clear shots of the park. Reddit

Yes, focus on the intricate details of the suspension cables and the sturdy pillars to highlight the bridge's historic architecture. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules within The Boathouse pub or park areas. Reddit

Experiment with capturing the movement – perhaps a slightly blurred shot to convey the bounce, or a steady shot emphasizing the bridge's connection across the water. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Porthill Footbridge and its surroundings are great for families. The Dingle/Quarry Park offers a lovely space with a water area for kids to enjoy. Reddit While the bridge's sway might be a fun novelty for some children, parents should be mindful of younger ones who might be apprehensive. The Boathouse pub offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxed meal with a view after exploring the park. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy a scenic walk, Porthill Footbridge is a must-visit. It connects the charming Quarry Park with the inviting Boathouse pub, offering picturesque views of the River Severn. Reddit The unique sensation of walking across the historic suspension bridge adds an element of adventure to your stroll. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Porthill Footbridge presents unique photographic opportunities. Capture the historic suspension structure and its characteristic sway, the tranquil River Severn, and the inviting Boathouse pub terrace. Reddit The surrounding Quarry Park also offers lovely natural backdrops. Consider visiting during golden hour for the best light to enhance the scenic beauty of this location. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Porthill Footbridge

The Porthill Footbridge, a true suspension bridge, was constructed in 1922 and opened in 1923, costing approximately £2600. Its unique characteristic is the noticeable 'sway' experienced when walking across it, a sensation that adds to its charm and historic feel. This antique structure provides a vital and picturesque link, connecting The Dingle/Quarry Park directly to The Boathouse pub. Visitors often remark on the unusual but sturdy feeling of the bridge, appreciating its antiquity and the character it adds to the town's riverside. Reddit

This bridge is more than just a crossing; it's an experience. The gentle bounce underfoot is a talking point for many, offering a memorable aspect to a simple walk. It’s a testament to early 20th-century engineering, providing a functional yet aesthetically pleasing addition to the River Severn landscape. The historical significance, combined with its unique tactile experience, makes it a point of interest for locals and tourists alike. Reddit

Connecting Parks and Pubs: The Boathouse Experience

The Porthill Footbridge serves as a gateway to a delightful riverside experience, most notably leading directly to The Boathouse pub. This popular establishment boasts a fantastic outdoor dining terrace that overlooks the River Severn, the iconic bridge, and the adjacent Quarry Park. It's a prime spot for enjoying a meal or a drink while soaking in the scenic views. Reddit

Visitors frequently mention parking in the city center and walking across the bridge specifically to dine at The Boathouse, highlighting its appeal as a destination. The combination of the scenic walk, the unique bridge crossing, and the relaxing atmosphere of the pub with its river views creates a well-rounded outing. It’s an ideal location for a leisurely lunch or a relaxed evening, blending natural beauty with local hospitality. Reddit

Exploring The Dingle/Quarry Park

Beyond the bridge itself, The Dingle/Quarry Park offers a serene natural escape. This lovely park is connected by the Porthill Footbridge and provides a pleasant contrast to the historic bridge and the bustling pub. It features a water area, making it a particularly appealing spot for families looking for a place to relax or for children to enjoy. Reddit

The park provides a peaceful environment for a stroll, a picnic, or simply to enjoy the greenery. Its proximity to the bridge and The Boathouse makes it an easy addition to any visit, allowing for a full afternoon of exploration and relaxation by the River Severn. The park's tranquil atmosphere complements the unique experience of crossing the historic, swaying footbridge. Reddit