Pulteney Bridge is one of only three bridges in the world lined with shops on both sides. It is an 18th-century bridge(built 1769-71) and, along with the assembly rooms, roman baths and the abbey, is one of the most admired structures in Bath. It was built for William Pulteney by his architect Robert Adam, a fan of the Palladian design. Over the years the bridge has suffered so many changes that Adam would probably barely recognise it!
In my opinion it is best viewed from 3 places:
1. The bus stop - only problem here is that every 20 minutes you will have your peaceful moment marred by the hundreds of students from Bath University that come down using this "Orange Bus Stop". However, from here you can see the weir and the bridge in all its glory.
2. The Boater - at night this wonderful pub has a garden full of fairy lights, very romantic and if you take a little walk to the bottom then you can admire Pulteney Bridge from a lower angle.
3. There are two restaurants - one on the bridge itself and one just off it that both offer lovely views, I would recommend eating in one of these, just for the view.
In all honesty Pulteney Bridge isn't all that great! but its three classical arches over the river Avon just above Pulteney Weir is a must see for anyone taking some time to visit the beautiful city of Bath. It doesn't take long to appreciate, unless you are a bridge builder, but the image of this bridge is so linked to Bath that you can't really claim to have "seen" Bath unless you have taken a moment or two to visit it.
Bath is quite chilly most of the year and in my opinion the bridge is best seen at night so why not add it to a night out. I'd recommend visiting the Bridge then dinner in Browns (a five minute walk from the Bridge) followed by dancing at any one of Baths Nightclub (Po Na Na, Qube and Bablyons are nearest but are likely to be swamped with students)!
Enjoy Pulteney Bridge as part of your visit to Bath but I wouldn't go JUST to see it - you'll probably be disappointed, it is free to see though so you might as well.
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