A step over the Severn with the historic bridges of Montgomeryshire

From its source the in the hills near Llanidloes the mighty Hafren, as it is is also known, makes a 220 mile journey to the Severn Estuary and the sea.

Along the way the river carves through towns and countryside alike.

As Montgomeryshire gathered importance as a woollen centre and place of industry in the 18th and 19th centuries so had the need to improve infrastructure.

Bridges were built spanning the Severn, some of which are Grade II listed historical monuments today.

However such is the nature of the Severn, not all crossings are grand are even well known.

The County Times continues its tour downstream, from Caersws to the point where the river enters Shropshire.

Caersws' historic bridge

Triple span arch bridge designed by Thomas Penson in 1821 and is now a Grade II listed structure. Carries the A470 road.

Newtown's Long Bridge

Built in 1827 in Newtown. Considered to be the 29th bridge from the source and another Thomas Penson designed Grade II listed structure.

Cilgwrgan Bridge

The three span brickwork arch bridge in Aberbechan is also a Grade II listed structure having been built in 1862.

Abermule's Brynderwen Bridge

Designed by Thomas Penson and built by the Brymbo Company of Wrexham. The Grade II listed bridge is inscribed 'This second iron bridge constructed in the county of Montgomery was erected in te year 1852.'

Caerhowel Bridge

Another Grade II designed bridge by Thomas Penson which was built in 1858.

Cil-cewydd Bridge

Designed by Thomas Penson. A Grade II listed structure built in 1861.

Leighton Bridge

The listing description is 'Bridge over channel N of Severn Lodge' and is a Grade II listed structure built in 1872.

Buttington Bridge

The Grade II listed cast iron arch bridge carries the A458 road. It was built in 1872.

Llandrinio Bridge

The stone arch bridge is the oldest surviving bridge on the river and Grade II listed having been built in 1775.