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Located over the River Cam, the Mathematical Bridge, also known as Newton's Bridge, is said to have been built by Newton, but its actual design was by James Essex the Younger. The bridge is entirely wooden, originally held together without a single nail or screw. Students at Queen's College, eager to uncover its secrets, dismantled it, but were unable to restore it, so they had to use nails to restore it to its current form. It has stood at Queen's College for over 250 years.
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a temperate oceanic climate with small temperature differences between the four seasons. The summers are cool and the winters are warm. The air is humid with frequent rain and fog, especially in autumn and winter.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours;
Nearby attractions: University of London, Chinese Embassy, British Museum, London Zoo, Sherlock Holmes Memorial on Baker Street and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, etc.
free
Open all day
The Mathematical Bridge, also known as the Wooden Bridge, is located in Cambridge, UK. It was built in 1749 and is famed for its unique design, which features a series of wooden arches that appear to defy gravity. The bridge was originally constructed by James Essex and is often linked to the mathematician Sir Isaac Newton, although there is no historical evidence that he had any involvement in its design. The bridge’s iconic structure remains a testament to 18th-century engineering and the application of geometry in architecture.
The Mathematical Bridge is located at Queens' College in central Cambridge, UK.
The Mathematical Bridge is accessible at all hours as it is an outdoor structure. However, the best time to visit is during daylight hours to fully appreciate its beauty and the surrounding views of the River Cam. Weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon are usually less crowded.
There is no entrance fee to view the Mathematical Bridge as it is a public bridge located within the grounds of Queens' College. However, if you wish to enter Queens' College itself to see the bridge up close from inside the college grounds, you may need to purchase an admission ticket. Tickets can be bought at the college entrance or online through the official Queens' College website.
Booking in advance is only necessary if you wish to visit Queens' College and tour its grounds, as this requires a ticket. It is recommended to book tickets a few days ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons. For just viewing the bridge from the outside, no booking is required.
Visiting the Mathematical Bridge and its surroundings takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you decide to walk around Queens' College and the nearby areas or enjoy a punt ride along the river.
Guided tours of Queens' College are available, and these often include information about the Mathematical Bridge. The tours are conducted in English. Audio guides in English may also be available for self-guided tours of the college and its grounds.
Start by walking to the Mathematical Bridge from the entrance of Queens' College. After viewing the bridge, take time to stroll around the College grounds and enjoy the views of the river. If you have extra time, you can opt for a punting experience along the river, which offers beautiful views of the bridge and the surrounding area.
While the Mathematical Bridge is accessible at night, there are no special light shows or night tours dedicated to the bridge itself. However, Cambridge hosts events during the year that may offer evening tours of Queens' College, which may include information about the bridge.
The bridge and surrounding area can get crowded during peak tourist seasons (summer and weekends). The least crowded times are during the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays, especially in spring or autumn when fewer tourists are visiting Cambridge.
There are no facilities directly on the bridge. However, within Queens' College, you can find toilets and water fountains. There are also several cafés and restaurants near the college where you can grab food or a drink.
The bridge itself is easily accessible to most visitors, but since it is part of Queens' College, which has some cobbled areas, those with mobility impairments may find it challenging to navigate the grounds. Visitors with disabilities may need assistance, but the college makes reasonable provisions for accessibility.
Cards and mobile payments are accepted at the ticket counter for entrance to Queens' College, as well as at nearby cafés and shops. Cash is generally not needed unless you are purchasing small items from street vendors.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in the cafés and restaurants nearby. Halal options are also available at certain eateries, particularly around central Cambridge.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in central Cambridge where you can find items like postcards, T-shirts, and local handmade crafts. At Queens' College, the shop offers books, stationery, and college-branded items.
Cambridge’s central bus station is a short walk from the Mathematical Bridge, and trains to London and other cities are available from Cambridge station. If you're exploring the city further, walking or cycling are excellent options.
