There is some irony in the name of the oldest bridge over the river Thames, because it is called Newbridge! The bridge holds the A415 which runs between Abingdon and Witney and has the prestigious title of the oldest bridge over the river Thames. History buffs may argue this title, however, because just along the river is Radcot Bridge, which is officially the oldest bridge but no longer crosses the main channel of the Thames since construction of a new cut for the Severn Canal in 1787. It also suffered significant damage during the War of the Roses and was almost completely re-built. As a result, Newbridge, perhaps by technicality, can claim the title of the oldest bridge over the Thames.
Newbridge was built by monks under the orders of King John in the 13th Century to improve connections between the towns on either side of the river. It consists of Taynton stone with Elm foundations and was constructed with an arch technique also used in the building of Radcot Bridge.
Being an old bridge, you may be asking how it came to get its name – it is quite simple really - at the time of its construction it was the newest bridge to be built in the area.
The bridge sits amongst fields but has remained a popular attraction due to the public houses which sit one at each end – the Maybush and Rose Revived. The bridge and indeed the hostelries on either side are certainly worth a visit when you are next in the area.
