13 Bridges to Explore in Ireland

Ballycarney Bridge is located in Wexford. Ballycarney Bridge is just one of the many highlights in this area. It is very old and also it refers the architectural intelligence of Ireland.

Bond's Bridge was built in 1890 and is a bowstring bridge constructed of iron. It is named after the Bond family. It was an iconic attraction in this area and attracts a lot of people.

Craigavon Bridge is the oldest of Derry's 3 bridges. This is the third bridge to be built at this location over the mighty River Foyle. It is one of only a few double-decker road bridges in Europe. It was named after Lord Craigavon, the first Prime Minister of Northern Ireland. The present bridge was designed by the City Architect, Matthew A Robinson. A pair of bronze statues forming a sculpture entitled Hands Across the Divide are situated at the west end of Craigavon Bridge.

The Fairy Bridges is a natural arch in the cliffs, with blow holes that date as far back as the 1700s. Early travellers to the area were thought to be more interested in coming to see The Fairy Bridges than to experience the natural health benefits of the area’s golden beaches and proximity to the wild Atlantic Ocean. Indeed, this natural rock formation was one of the main attractions to visit in Bundoran at the time.

This is the most beautiful bridge in Tollymore Park. It has graced the Shimna River since 1787. It was named after a young niece of the 2nd Countess Clanbrassil, called Harriot Foley. The Castle at Newcastle housed the Coastguard Revenue Officers when this bridge was built, and Donard Lodge wasn't started until c.40 years later.

The Foyle Bridge crosses the River Foyle on the north side of Derry/Londonderry in Northern Ireland and is one of just two road bridges crossing the river in the city. The central cantilever span of the bridge is the second longest on the island of Ireland, at 234 metres (767 ft), and the whole suspended bridge structure including the approach spans is 866 metres long.

The Mary McAleese Boyne Valley Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge 3km west of Drogheda spanning the Boyne and the county boundaries of Meath and Louth. The bridge is tolled and forms part of the M1 motorway which links Dublin and Belfast. This bridge is known for its beautiful architecture and has been built taking the environment into consideration. Earlier known as River Boyne bridge, this bridge was given its present name in 2012 and is named after Irish president Mary McAleese.

The Quiet Man Bridge is a dry stone bridge, which is best known for having been a favourite filming location for John Wayne. The bridge was made famous in the 1950s classic “The Quiet man” starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. The location of the bridge is clearly signposted. This is a popular spot with visitors and a great place for photo opportunities.

The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge over the river Barrow which opened last year has won the IABSE Outstanding Structure Award. It is one of the highest distinctions awarded by IABSE and recognises, in different regions of the world, some of the most remarkable, innovative, creative, or otherwise stimulating structures. Sustainability and respect of the environment is also an important factor.

A beautiful pedestrian bridge across the River Shannon linking the University of Limerick’s premises in County Limerick and County Clare. The bridge was designed by Arup Engineers & Wilkinson Eyre Architects to provide social and cultural space to encourage pedestrians to rest a while as they cross along the gently curved structure. At this point on the Shannon it is wide and shallow with many wooded islands which provide varied views and support for the piers.

The Derry Peace Bridge spans 400 years of a physical and political divide in Northern Ireland, symbolizing a handshake of peace across the River Foyle. It is the newest of three bridges in the city, the others being the Craigavon Bridge and the Foyle Bridge. The bridge was opened to the public by EU Commissioner for Regional Policy, Johannes Hahn; accompanied by the First and deputy First Ministers, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness; and the Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Thomond Bridge, was built near a fording point. It was the scene of a failed defending of the city during the Siege of Limerick. It connected the old walled city of Limerick with County Clare via Thomondgate. The modern bridge was erected in 1840 replacing a bridge from the 14th century.

Wexford Bridge is a road bridge in Wexford, the county town of County Wexford in Ireland. It crosses the mouth of the River Slaney from Wexford town on the west bank to Ferrybank on the east bank. It carries the R741 road from Wexford towards Dublin and the north. The bridge consists of 7 spans of maximum length 63 metres and 12 metres wide, made of continuous steel girders carrying composite concrete slabs.