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Dating from about 1500, this three arch bridge over the Tees with a central span of 22 m (72 ft) is a fine example of how sophisticated medieval bridge building became. It replaced an earlier bridge similar to that at Croft (see entry).
Piercebridge Roman Bridge is the archaeological remains of a Roman bridge, over the Tees. The bridge was the crossing point for the Roman Road Dere Street. Piercebridge was also the site of a Roman fort.
The Tees has narrowed and changed its course over the centuries so the remains now lie in a field around 100 yards south of the current course of the river. What remains of the bridge are the massive masonry blocks that formed the piers of the bridge. The lower courses of one of the abutments still stand, partially complete. It is possible to see the holes into which the wooden structure of the bridge would have fitted. All the timber has disappeared in the course of the nearly 16 centuries since the end of the Roman occupation.
By road: On B6275, between villages of Piercebridge and Cliffe.
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Forgotten Relics - Listed Bridges and Viaducts