Name: Moulton Packhorse Bridge
Rating: 5.0

Moulton Packhorse Bridge

Bridge Street, Moulton, Newmarket, UK

1-99 Years

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Description

Moulton Packhorse Bridge a pretty four-arched late medieval bridge, spanning the River Kennett on the old route from Cambridge to Bury St Edmunds. This medieval bridge across the River Kennet lies on the ancient route from Bury St Edmunds to Cambridge and spans a distance of over 20 metres. It is perhaps not strictly a packhorse bridge since it was wide enough to take carts: it is now used only by pedestrians.

The river has shrunk in size since the bridge was built in the 15th century. While a single arch would have been suitable to span a narrow stream, if used over a wider stretch this design would have created an inconveniently steep slope at both sides. At Moulton a series of smaller arches was therefore used to carry the road on a more manageable slope.

Free Entry. If you are looking for Best place for day out with kids and families then this is the perfect destination offering fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories for everyone.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: No

Features

History of Moulton Packhorse Bridge: This medieval bridge across the River Kennet lies on the ancient route from Bury St Edmunds to Cambridge and spans a distance of over 20 metres. It is perhaps not strictly a packhorse bridge since it was wide enough to take carts: it is now used only by pedestrians.
The river has shrunk in size since the bridge was built in the 15th century. While a single arch would have been suitable to span a narrow stream, if used over a wider stretch this design would have created an inconveniently steep slope at both sides. At Moulton a series of smaller arches was therefore used to carry the road on a more manageable slope.
Description: The bridge is built of flint and stone rubble, with plain parapets, and the edges of the arches are made of brick. Pointed arch shapes like these were constructed using wooden formers to support and shape them, and were not used after the 15th century.
A concrete platform has been laid down alongside the bridge over the stream, at the level of the base of the piers, to allow cars to cross. The concrete extends under the arches, giving an unusual opportunity to look at the underside of the bridge.

Facilities

Parking: There is no car park at the bridge but there is restricted on-street parking nearby.
Food & Drinks: There are no facilities at the bridge but it is very close to the village pub, and there is a general store selling takeaway hot drinks and snacks nearby in The Street.
Dogs: Dogs on leads are welcome.

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Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Open any reasonable time during daylight hours.

Address: Bridge Street, Moulton, Newmarket, UK

Post Code: CB8 8SP

Council: West Suffolk

County: Suffolk

Road Access: In Moulton off B1085, four miles east of Newmarket.
Bus Access: Stephensons 16, 16A, 16B & 17; Suffolk Norse services 310, 311A & 311B; Mulleys service 312.
Train Access: Kennett two miles.
Bicycle Access: Find this site on The National Cycle Network.
Parking: There is no car park at the bridge but there is restricted on-street parking nearby.