
Teddington Lock and Footbridges
Historic Victorian footbridges offering scenic River Thames views, a vital shortcut, and a glimpse of tidal river life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful sunrise views

Teddington Lock and Footbridges
Best Time
Beautiful sunrise views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Victorian footbridges offering scenic River Thames views, a vital shortcut, and a glimpse of tidal river life.
"Great shortcut to get from one side of the river between Teddington to Kingston, rather go all the way down to the main bridge and then cross."

Check Bridge Status
Footbridges may have overnight closures for maintenance. Always check local updates before you go! :information_desk:
Sunrise Spectacle
Visit during summer sunrise for breathtaking views of the lock and river. :sunrise:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Teddington Lock Footbridges
Over the River Thames
Historic Victorian footbridges offering scenic river views and a unique perspective of the tidal Thames.
River Thames Views
From the footbridges
Enjoy picturesque vistas of the river, boats, and lush green backdrops, especially stunning at sunrise.
Shortcut Between Banks
Teddington to Kingston
A convenient crossing point, saving a longer detour to the main bridge, popular with locals and visitors alike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Closures & Timing
River Path Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Bridge Status
Footbridges may have overnight closures for maintenance. Always check local updates before you go!
:information_desk:Sunrise Spectacle
Visit during summer sunrise for breathtaking views of the lock and river.
:sunrise:Mind the Dog Poop
Be aware of dog waste on the path and bridges; some visitors leave it behind.
:dog:Enjoy the Stroll
Perfect for walking, strolling, and relaxing by the riverside. Great for a peaceful escape.
:walking:Tips
from all over the internet
Check Bridge Status
Footbridges may have overnight closures for maintenance. Always check local updates before you go!
:information_desk:Sunrise Spectacle
Visit during summer sunrise for breathtaking views of the lock and river.
:sunrise:Mind the Dog Poop
Be aware of dog waste on the path and bridges; some visitors leave it behind.
:dog:Enjoy the Stroll
Perfect for walking, strolling, and relaxing by the riverside. Great for a peaceful escape.
:walking:Wobbly Bridge Fun
Kids might find the bridges less 'wobbly' than expected, but the movement is still noticeable!
:child:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Teddington Lock's footbridges to be a pleasant and convenient crossing with lovely river views, especially at sunrise. While not as 'wobbly' as some kids might expect, the bridges offer a unique sensation and a great shortcut. Some users note issues with dog waste on the paths, detracting slightly from the otherwise enjoyable riverside experience.
"The kids were told this was the 'wobbly bridge', they were disappointed it wasn't that wobbly - although you could feel the movement in it a little as you walked accross! As bridges go, this was quite a nice one - great view down the river as well...!"
Andrew Cartwright
"Good pathway for walking, strolling, relaxing and to have a good time by riverside."
Yogesh Bhujbal
"Very busy bridge especially to dog walker and some naughty who just left the poo on the bridge so be mindful of your walk. Look stunning especially when the sun is out or during the dawn"
Dante Ama
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Teddington Lock is accessible via public transport. You can reach the area by train to Teddington Station, followed by a walk. The footbridges themselves connect the banks of the River Thames, making them a key part of navigating the riverside paths.
Limited parking may be available in the surrounding Teddington and Kingston areas, but it's often best to rely on public transport or walking/cycling to access the lock and its footbridges, especially on busy days.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to reach Teddington Lock, as it's situated along the Thames Path. Be mindful of other users on the path and the bridges.
Walking or cycling along the Thames Path is highly recommended. The footbridges offer a unique way to experience the river and connect different parts of the riverside.
Yes, there are several pubs and cafes in the vicinity of Teddington Lock, offering places to rest and refuel after exploring the area. One notable pub mentioned is 'the pub that floods' in Richmond, a short distance away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Teddington Lock and its footbridges are free to access and visit. It's a public amenity for everyone to enjoy.
Teddington Lock and its footbridges are generally accessible at all times. However, the footbridges may be subject to temporary overnight closures for maintenance.
There are no fees to cross the Teddington Lock footbridges. They serve as public walkways over the River Thames.
While the area is generally accessible, the footbridges may be closed overnight for maintenance. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience and to avoid potential closures.
There is no admission fee for viewing or being near the Teddington Lock. It's an operational part of the river system.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise, especially in summer, offers stunning light and views of the lock and river. Golden hour during sunset can also provide beautiful photographic opportunities.
You can capture scenic river views, the historic footbridges, boats passing through, and the surrounding greenery. The 'wobbly bridge' aspect can also be a fun subject.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Teddington Lock. However, always be respectful of private property and other visitors.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. For sunrise/sunset, a tripod can be helpful. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the bridges and river expanse.
Yes, photographing boats navigating the lock is a popular activity. You can get great shots from the footbridges or the riverbanks.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can walk across the historic footbridges, enjoy scenic river views, watch boats, and stroll along the Thames Path. It's a great spot for a relaxing walk or a short break.
While some visitors, particularly children, might expect them to be very wobbly, the movement is noticeable but not extreme. It adds a unique sensation to crossing.
Yes, families can enjoy a walk along the river and crossing the bridges. It's a pleasant outdoor activity, though supervision is advised near the water.
The Thames Path offers excellent walking routes in both directions from Teddington Lock, connecting to areas like Kingston and Richmond.
You can see the lock from a distance from the footbridges, offering a good perspective of its operation and the river's tidal nature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as amenities might be spread out. The area provides a safe and accessible environment for a relaxed family outing, combining a bit of gentle activity with scenic beauty.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the riverside greenery, the opportunity to spot various bird species, and the tranquil atmosphere, especially during quieter times. The changing light at sunrise and sunset can be particularly beautiful for photography and quiet contemplation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Footbridges
Each bridge spans a section of the River Thames, with a small island situated between them. The design allows for pedestrian traffic to easily move between the Teddington side and the Kingston side, serving as a vital shortcut for locals and a point of interest for visitors. The experience of walking across them, feeling the slight movement, adds to their unique charm.
While they are a convenient way to cross, it's worth noting that these bridges can undergo maintenance. Visitors should check for any overnight closure notices, particularly during weekdays, to ensure smooth passage.
Experiencing the Tidal Thames
Visitors can observe this tidal influence by watching the water levels and the movement of boats. The lock itself is a crucial piece of infrastructure that helps manage boat traffic and water levels, especially for vessels moving between the tidal and non-tidal sections. Seeing boats pass through the lock is a fascinating glimpse into river navigation.
Walking along the Thames Path near Teddington Lock provides a great opportunity to appreciate the river's dynamic nature. The views from the footbridges offer a unique vantage point to observe the interplay of water, boats, and the surrounding landscape, making it a captivating spot for nature and engineering enthusiasts alike.
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