Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The River Severn, stretching approximately 220 miles, holds the distinction of being the longest river in the United Kingdom. Flowing through both England and Wales, this historic waterway is crossed by numerous bridges, each with its own engineering significance and story.
Completed in 1966, this suspension bridge represents one of Britain's most recognizable landmarks. Spanning the Severn estuary between England and Wales, its elegant aerodynamic deck and soaring towers have become symbolic of the connection between the two nations.
Opened in 1996, this cable-stayed bridge carries the M4 motorway across the estuary. At over 3 miles long, it ranks among the longest bridges in the UK. The bridge was renamed the Prince of Wales Bridge in 2018, though many still refer to it by its original designation.
Often confused with the original Severn Bridge, the M48 designation refers to the motorway route that utilizes the first Severn Bridge. Since the opening of the Second Severn Crossing, this route carries local traffic and serves as a backup during high winds or maintenance on the newer bridge.
Completed in 1960, this earlier road bridge predates the motorway-era crossings. While less celebrated than its successors, it played a crucial role in establishing reliable road transport across the estuary.
Standing in Ironbridge, Shropshire, this cast-iron arch bridge holds world-historical significance as the first bridge ever constructed of iron. Completed in 1781, it spans the Severn at the heart of the Industrial Revolution's birthplace. The bridge and surrounding gorge are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beyond these major structures, the Severn is bridged at numerous other points including Bewdley Bridge, Upton-upon-Severn Bridge, and Gloucester Railway Bridge, each serving local communities and transport networks along the river's course.