King John had granted Kingston on Thames its first Charter of Liberties in 1199. The town's merchants went back to him in 1209 to gain the charter that empowered them to build the bridge which was maintained until 1828. It was the first bridge on the Thames above London Bridge until the opening of Putney bridge in 1729.

O/S Co-ords:1771.6943
Source(s):

Thames Crossings. Bridges, Tunnels and Ferries

This was the stone bridge, designed by Edward Lapidge which was opened by the Duchess of Clarence (later Queen Adelaide, consort of William IV). It replaced the timber construction which was just 200 ft upstream from this.

O/S Co-ords:1771.6936
Source(s):

Thames Crossings. Bridges, Tunnels and Ferries

So tolls were collected for some 660 years. The celebrations were considerable. There was a formal ceremony on this date which involved, unwillingly, the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs of London and fireworks by the pyrotechnic expert Brock of Crystal Palace. On the following Monday there were events involving the public and children. The toll gates were burnt on Hampton Green.

O/S Co-ords:1771.6936
Source(s):

Thames Crossings. Bridges, Tunnels and Ferries

The bridge opened in 1828 had been widened and was opened at this time. The form and facings of the old bridge were maintained so that the changes are only noticeable from underneath the arches.

O/S Co-ords:1771.6936
Source(s):

Thames Crossings. Bridges, Tunnels and Ferries