Friday 22 July 2011

King John's Bridge Co Dublin


                        Above Image: Hiding in the vegetation on the Griffeen River


                             Above 2 Images: Views of the top of the Bridge


Situated on the Griffeen River in Lucan Co Dublin not far from the ruins of Old Esker Church, this small but significant arched Bridge is all that remains of a once three arched structure that is attributed to King John.
This infamous King of England had a penchant for Bridge building and this Bridge is believed to have been constructed during his reign of 1199 to 1216, thus making it the oldest standing bridge in Ireland. The Bridge had fallen into disuse by 1816 and although now in a ruinous state, it's arch still stands solidly across the narrow River.
If you are in the area it is well worth a look and a short hike through the Riverside vegetation will allow you with due care to stand upon the arch. It can be viewed from the Esker Bridge on Lynche's Lane looking South east and is accessible through the public park.
To find the Bridge Leave the N4 Westbound at junction 3 onto Ballyowen Rd. Turn on the first right onto Bewleys Lawn and at a roundabout take a right turn onto Esker Lane. Continue on until you find a right hand turn for Lynche's Lane. You can park on the road at Old Esker Church nearby (see post here) and it is just a 3 minute walk to the Bridge.

No comments:

Post a Comment