Richmnd Bridge

The venerable Richmond Bridge is an emblem of enduring splendour, the Thames' oldest surviving link. This Bridge, a Grade I-listed gem, saw its foundation stone placed in 1774. James Paine, the visionary behind the previous Kew Bridge, lent his genius to its design, while Kenton Couse shaped its form from Portland stone. By 1777, it had gracefully spanned the Thames, a testament to human ingenuity.

But rewind a bit, and you'll find a tale of ferrying souls and cargoes across the water. Before the Bridge, Ferry Hill, now known as Bridge Street, hosted a ferry service. One vessel transported people while its counterpart carried the weight of carts and steeds, forging a vital connection.

In 1773, the ferry's operator, Mr. Wyndham, came bearing an intriguing proposition – he'd relinquish the remainder of his lease, using the funds to erect a toll bridge. His initial pitch? A wooden structure near Water Lane's foot. But the locals had their say, dissenting against the Wood and the location. A new vision emerged, featuring a stone bridge in our current spot.

Fast forward to 1777, and the Bridge stood proud. An ingenious funding scheme fueled its rise – a "Tontine" arrangement, where shares of £100 each were the currency. In this intriguing pact, shareholders shared the revenue equally until their passing. Then, the remaining shareholders would divvy up the shares. The final chapter closed in 1859 when the last shareholder's tale ended, and the tolls were no more.

A milestone on the Richmond side traces paths to nearby towns and bridges, a charming touch that beckons travellers onward. Cast your eyes to the lamps, casting their glow upon the Bridge's span – original gas lamps that embraced electricity's modern marvel.

The Bridge was widened in 1939, and the familiar "hump", which made it difficult to pass for some traffic, was flattened out.

Beneath this architectural marvel, a hive of activity stirs within its graceful arches. Small boat builders and artisans ply their trade, taking their work to the pathways. And lo and behold, there's Tide Tables Café, nestled in Bridge House Gardens. Here, one can savour moments by the Thames pathway, a scene enlivened by the river's gentle flow.

Adjacent to this historic Bridge stands Bridge House Gardens, cradling the likeness of a man whose name echoed far beyond these shores. General Bernardo O'Higgins, Chile's inaugural president, once walked Richmond's paths, studying from 1795 to 1798. Each year, a solemn tribute is paid to him by the Mayor of Richmond and representatives from the Chilean Embassy, their wreaths honouring a figure who bridged two worlds.