Did London Bridge Have Houses on It?

By Robert Palmer

London Bridge is a historic landmark that has been an iconic symbol of the city for centuries. It served as a crucial transportation link across the River Thames and has undergone many transformations over the years. One question that often comes up is whether there were houses on London Bridge.

London Bridge in Medieval Times

During the medieval period, London Bridge was home to numerous buildings, including houses, shops, and even a church. These structures were built on top of the bridge’s stone arches and were supported by wooden beams. The buildings were constructed close together, creating a narrow passageway for travelers.

The houses on London Bridge were primarily occupied by merchants and tradespeople who used them as both residences and shops. They sold goods such as cloth, leather, and spices to people crossing the bridge.

The living conditions on London Bridge were far from ideal. The buildings were cramped, dark, and lacked proper sanitation facilities. Residents had to rely on chamber pots to dispose of their waste, which they would then throw into the river below.

The Great Fire of London

In 1666, a devastating fire broke out in London that destroyed much of the city, including many buildings on London Bridge. As part of rebuilding efforts after the fire, it was decided that no more buildings would be constructed on the bridge’s arches.

However, some small shops remained on either side of the bridge until they were removed during renovations in the mid-18th century.

London Bridge Today

Today’s modern version of London Bridge looks quite different from its medieval predecessor. The current bridge was opened in 1973 and is made of concrete and steel rather than stone arches.

There are no longer any buildings or houses on London Bridge today. Instead, it features pedestrian walkways with stunning views of the River Thames and nearby landmarks such as Tower Bridge and The Shard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, London Bridge did have houses on it during the medieval period. These structures were primarily occupied by merchants and served as both homes and shops.

However, after the Great Fire of London and subsequent renovations, buildings were no longer allowed to be constructed on the bridge’s arches. Today, London Bridge is a modern landmark that offers stunning views of the city without any houses or buildings cluttering its walkways.