
Menai Suspension Bridge
Walk across the world's first major iron suspension bridge, a 1826 marvel by Thomas Telford, offering stunning Menai Strait views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Menai Suspension Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk across the world's first major iron suspension bridge, a 1826 marvel by Thomas Telford, offering stunning Menai Strait views.
"A beautiful bridge connecting Anglesey with the Wales mainland, lots of walks around its base."

🚶 Walk the Pedestrian Path
Don't just drive over! The free walkway offers stunning views and a true appreciation of the bridge's scale .
📸 Capture Iconic Angles
Explore viewpoints from the Belgian Promenade for unique shots of the bridge's engineering .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Suspension Bridge
Spanning the Menai Strait
Walk across the world's first major iron suspension bridge, a marvel of 1826 engineering.

Menai Strait Views
Pedestrian walkway
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the strait, Church Island, and potential wildlife sightings.

Belgian Promenade
Base of the bridge
A scenic walk offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities of the bridge's structure.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Check for Closures & Traffic
Embrace the Walkway
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk the Pedestrian Path
Don't just drive over! The free walkway offers stunning views and a true appreciation of the bridge's scale.
📸 Capture Iconic Angles
Explore viewpoints from the Belgian Promenade for unique shots of the bridge's engineering.
🦢 Spot Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for herons, swans, and seals in the Menai Strait below.
🚗 Check Traffic Updates
Recent closures for maintenance can cause significant delays; check before you travel.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk the Pedestrian Path
Don't just drive over! The free walkway offers stunning views and a true appreciation of the bridge's scale.
📸 Capture Iconic Angles
Explore viewpoints from the Belgian Promenade for unique shots of the bridge's engineering.
🦢 Spot Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for herons, swans, and seals in the Menai Strait below.
🚗 Check Traffic Updates
Recent closures for maintenance can cause significant delays; check before you travel.
💡 Appreciate the History
Learn about Thomas Telford's groundbreaking design, the first of its kind globally.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Menai Suspension Bridge for its historical significance and stunning views. Many recommend walking across the pedestrian path to fully appreciate the engineering and the scenic Menai Strait. While occasional traffic delays due to maintenance are noted, the overall experience is considered a worthwhile detour for its beauty and historical importance.
"Beautiful views. Make sure you walk over the pedestrian path to see up the Menai Straits towards Beaumaris and down towards Plas Newydd. Look out for Church Island and the Druid stones. You can spot Heron, Swans and Seals if you're lucky."
Bronwen Banner
"The views from this bridge are gorgeous and it's a brilliant bridge all on its own. Pity about the roadworks (July 2025) as we queued for around 20 minutes. The walk across would be even better. Worth a detour if you are in the area."
Elaine Woodhall-Windle
"A beautiful bridge connecting Anglesey with the Wales mainland. Lots of walks around it base alongside the Menai Straits on both sides. Treat yourself to a rib ride under it!"
Lois : No Cruise Control
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Menai Suspension Bridge is easily accessible by car, connecting Anglesey to mainland Wales. It's a key part of the A5 road. For those using public transport, local bus services operate in the area, though checking schedules in advance is recommended. Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak times.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the bridge, particularly on the Anglesey side. However, these can fill up quickly, especially during busy periods. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby parking options if the main lots are full.
Absolutely! The bridge features a pedestrian walkway, which is highly recommended for the best experience. It's a free activity and offers fantastic views of the Menai Strait and the surrounding landscape.
Many visitors recommend walking across the pedestrian path to fully appreciate the bridge's scale and the stunning views of the Menai Strait. Exploring the Belgian Promenade at the base also offers unique perspectives.
The pedestrian walkway on the Menai Suspension Bridge is generally accessible. However, due to its historic nature, some areas might present challenges. It's advisable to check with local authorities for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to walk across the Menai Suspension Bridge or to view it from the surrounding areas. It's a free attraction for all visitors.
The Menai Suspension Bridge is a public thoroughfare and is generally open 24/7 for vehicular traffic and pedestrian access. However, it's crucial to check for any temporary closures due to maintenance or weather conditions, as these can occur.
While typically open, the bridge has experienced temporary closures for essential maintenance and safety reasons. It's always best to check local traffic updates or official sources before your visit to confirm its operational status.
The primary restriction is related to vehicle access, which can be subject to traffic management and closures. Pedestrian access is generally permitted, but visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and any posted signage.
The Menai Suspension Bridge was completed in 1826, designed by the renowned civil engineer Thomas Telford.
📸 📸 Photography
Excellent photo opportunities exist from the pedestrian walkway, offering views up and down the Menai Strait. The Belgian Promenade provides unique angles of the bridge's structure. Drone photography can capture stunning aerial views, but always check local regulations.
Yes, you can take photos from the pedestrian walkway. Be mindful of other pedestrians and traffic when capturing your shots. The views of the strait and surrounding landscape are particularly photogenic.
General photography is permitted. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits or adherence to specific guidelines. Always be aware of your surroundings and respect any posted restrictions.
Late afternoons during the 'golden hour' offer beautiful lighting for capturing the bridge and the strait. Early mornings can also provide serene views with fewer crowds.
Its status as the world's first major iron suspension bridge, its elegant design by Thomas Telford, and its dramatic setting over the Menai Strait make it incredibly photogenic.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk across the historic bridge, enjoy panoramic views of the Menai Strait, explore the Belgian Promenade, and look out for local wildlife like herons and seals. It's a great spot for appreciating engineering history.
Yes, there are lovely walks along the Menai Strait on both sides of the bridge. The Belgian Promenade offers a particularly scenic route with great views of the bridge.
It holds immense historical importance as the world's first major suspension bridge built with wrought iron chains, designed by Thomas Telford. It revolutionized bridge construction and transportation.
Yes, from the Menai Suspension Bridge, you can often see the Britannia Bridge, a rail and road bridge that runs parallel above it, showcasing different eras of engineering.
Nearby attractions include the town of Menai Bridge with its amenities, Church Island, and the beautiful coastal paths of Anglesey. Plas Newydd House and Gardens is also a short drive away.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
📸 Photographers and History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Pioneer of Engineering: Thomas Telford's Masterpiece
Before its construction, crossing the strait was a time-consuming ferry journey. Telford's design, with its elegant stone towers and robust iron chains, was a testament to the era's burgeoning industrial capabilities. The bridge's success paved the way for future suspension bridge designs worldwide, solidifying its place as a pivotal structure in architectural and engineering heritage. Visitors can still walk across this historic structure today, experiencing a piece of living history.
Experiencing the Menai Suspension Bridge: Views and Walks
For a different perspective, explore the Belgian Promenade at the base of the bridge. This scenic path allows you to appreciate the sheer scale and intricate engineering of the bridge from below. It's a fantastic spot for photography, offering unique angles that capture the bridge's grandeur against the backdrop of the strait. Some visitors even opt for a rib ride under the bridge for an exhilarating experience.
Navigating Closures and Community Impact
Travelers planning a visit should always check for current closure information before setting out. Social media and local news outlets often provide real-time updates on the bridge's operational status. While driving across might be temporarily restricted, the pedestrian walkway often remains accessible, allowing visitors to still experience the bridge and its views, albeit with potential adjustments to their travel plans.



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