Survey Data
Reg No
21824056
Rating
National
Categories of Special Interest
Archaeological, Architectural, Technical
Original Use
Bridge
In Use As
Bridge
Date
1390 - 1850
Coordinates
146875, 146638
Date Recorded
31/08/2008
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Fourteen-arch rubble stone bridge, rebuilt in 1837, carrying road over the River Maigue, incorporating fabric of an earlier structure, dating from c. 1390-1410. Segmental arches with cut voussoirs. V-cutwaters to east elevation, rising vertically to form pedestrian refuges. Rubble stone parapet walls.
Appraisal
Originally built by the fifth Earl of Kildare, this bridge was widened in 1837 by the Earl of Dunraven who added the large refuges. The fifth to the tenth pointed segmental arches counting from the north side are original medieval arches. Downstream, the ring stones, spandrel walls and parapets are the work of the Dunravens. Its large number of spans, comprising fourteen arches, makes it a notable feature on the landscape. Apart from its practical and social function, the structure is of apparent architectural, engineering and archaeological merit. The well-designed pedestrian refuges are a notable and very practical feature. Adare Bridge makes a positive contribution to the town, forming an attractive approach over the River Maigue.