In the Roman period, the River Derwent could be crossed near the fort of Derventio by a ford. The first bridge in the area is believed to have been built during the existence of the Kingdom of Northumbria, a narrow, timber structure, which may have been on the site of the ford, or about 160 yards (150 m) downstream. The next record of a bridge is in 1280, on the downstream site, and this is probably the same structure described in 1581 as having stone piers supporting a timber bridge.[1]
An Act to enable the Justices of the Peace for the East Riding of the County of York to take down the County Bridge, called Stanford Bridge; and to build a Stone Bridge, at a more convenient Place, over the River Darwent, in the said Riding, instead thereof.
In 1727, a new bridge was constructed, a further 160 yards (150 m) downstream, where the river is narrower but deeper. It was designed by William Etty. It is built of stone, with three arches: a wider central arch, and narrower north and south arches which are usually dry. There are narrow refuges, formerly for pedestrians, and a stone parapet.[2]
In 1765, the road became a turnpike, and it was tolled until 1812.[1] Its southern span was widened in the 19th century. It has been grade II* listed since 1952, and was formerly also a scheduled ancient monument.[2] The bridge now carries the A166 road,[2] from York to Bridlington.[1] In 1967, a steel footbridge was constructed alongside the road bridge.[1]
The bridge was damaged after a number of traffic strikes and was closed for a number of weeks in 2024 to undergo repairs to the stone parapets. Traffic bollards were also installed to prevent further collisions.[3]
