The original bridge at this location was built in 1849 to a design by Joseph Locke and looked very similar to the original Richmond Railway Bridge which he also designed.
The replacement bridge, designed by Edward Andrews, is three spans of wrought iron bow string girders carrying two railway tracks. The construction work was carried out by Head Wrightson on behalf of the London & South Western Railway and was completed in 1895.[1] The original Locke span still stands unused on the upstream side.
University Boat Race
Boat Race approaching Barnes Bridge viewed from the Middlesex (North) bank [2003 - Oxford ultimately won by only one foot]
Barnes Bridge is also a landmark often quoted for The Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge, because it is suggested that whichever crew is ahead at this point will win the race. In 2003 the crews were in almost equal position approaching the bridge and Oxford ultimately won the race by just one foot.
Gallery
The first Barnes Bridge C1849
The current bridge from Barnes Bridge Station
Barnes Railway Bridge - view under decks showing the old disused span on the left