Chelsea Bridge London UK
Where is the Chelsea Bridge?
The Chelsea Bridge is located on Chelsea Bridge Road between the Battersea and Chelsea Districts of London. It connects these two areas. It’s a bustling bridge for commuters in both directions, with over 30,000 crossings per day. It’s a beautiful bridge in the day time, however viewing Chelsea Bridge at night, when it’s illuminated with soft lights is a wonderful experience and a popular place for taking pictures. Most certainly add Chelsea Bridge to your list of things to see and do in London UK.
While visiting London, we utilized this bridge fairly often. We crossed it on our way to or from Battersea Park and Battersea Power Station from Pimlico.
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Why is it named the Chelsea Bridge?
Originally referred to as the Victoria Bridge, in 1861, the name changed to Chelsea Bridge, named after the then Town of Chelsea.
What type of Bridge is it? What’s it used for?
The Chelsea Bridge is a self-anchoring suspension bridge, the first of it’s kind to be built in London., installed in 1937.
Commuters travelling to and from work use this bridge daily. It is therefore important for connecting communities.
What’s the history of the bridge?
In 1858 the original bridge opened as a toll bridge. Metropolitan Board of Works took it over in 1879 and it was freed of it’s tolls. The existing bridge, erected in 1937 is the second of two bridges on this site.
It is now maintained by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
What river does the Chelsea Bridge go over?
This bridge traverses the River Thames and is one of several bridges to do so.
How long and wide is the bridge?
This bridge is 698 feet (213 m) long and 82 feet (25 m) wide.
Can you walk and cycle across the Chelsea Bridge?
This bridge is a multiuse structure which allows for traffic, pedestrian and cyclist crossing. In fact, many changes made over the years ensure this bridge continues to operate well for all concerned.
Where are the best places to view the bridge?
On either side of the bridge you will get a great view of the bridge. The Chelsea embankment will also offer some fantastic views. Trying to get that perfect Chelsea Bridge picture will be fun and challenging as there are many viewpoints and angles.
From the train, on the Grosvenor Bridge coming back from our day trips, we often saw and remarked how gorgeous the Chelsea Bridge is all lit up.
Is it worth viewing the Chelsea Bridge?
Of course, this bridge is worth viewing and should therefore be included on your list of things to see in London, UK while visiting.
It seems to be a popular spot for tourists to take selfies and photos of and from Chelsea Bridge, especially at night. Additionally, you’ll get a great photo of the Albert Bridge from about mid point on the bridge.
The bridge lights up at night giving it a very different look than during the day. Indeed, day or evening, it’s worth checking out!
For Paul’s google review of the Chelsea Bridge, click here.
Where is there to stay within walking distance to the Chelsea Bridge?
There are many hotels close to the bridge on both sides of the river. Some hotels, , depending on the room you choose, if you’re fortunate, may even have a view of the bridge.
Both Chelsea and Battersea are very walkable area of London UK. Regardless of which hotel you choose, amenities will be fairly close by.
If possible, stay a few days in this area of the city. Likely, you will walk over this bridge more than once. There are many things to see in this area, and it’s an active and charming place to visit!
Visit our main Travel Tips for London and area page for more ideas.
