Sutton Harbour Footbridge Plymouth
A historic steel and iron swing bridge connecting Plymouth's vibrant Sutton Harbour, offering scenic views and access to attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festive atmosphere, family fun
Sutton Harbour Footbridge Plymouth
Best Time
Festive atmosphere, family fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic steel and iron swing bridge connecting Plymouth's vibrant Sutton Harbour, offering scenic views and access to attractions.
"It's a cool swing bridge though, the best way to get from the Plymouth Museum to the Aquarium."
Check Bridge Status
Bridge closures for boats are frequent. Plan your route accordingly to avoid delays. :informationdeskperson:
Detour Preparedness
If the bridge is closed, the detour adds 10-20 mins. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sutton Harbour Swing Bridge
Sutton Harbour, Plymouth
A historic steel, iron, and wood swing bridge, a crucial link and a cool piece of engineering.
Pirate Weekend Fun
The Barbican & Sutton Harbour
Experience award-winning family fun with a pirate theme, featuring activities for all ages.
Red Bull Mast Challenge
Barbican and Sutton Harbour
Witness brave participants tackle an epic 'up the mast' challenge for a chance to win.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Opening Times & Access
Navigating the Harbour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Bridge Status
Bridge closures for boats are frequent. Plan your route accordingly to avoid delays. :informationdeskperson:
Detour Preparedness
If the bridge is closed, the detour adds 10-20 mins. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Mechanism
Never force the gates when closed; it damages the bridge. Wait patiently. :construction_worker:
Cyclists Dismount
Remember to get off your bike before crossing the swing bridge. :bicycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Bridge Status
Bridge closures for boats are frequent. Plan your route accordingly to avoid delays. :informationdeskperson:
Detour Preparedness
If the bridge is closed, the detour adds 10-20 mins. Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Mechanism
Never force the gates when closed; it damages the bridge. Wait patiently. :construction_worker:
Cyclists Dismount
Remember to get off your bike before crossing the swing bridge. :bicycle:
Event Hotspot
Sutton Harbour hosts events like Pirate Weekend and Red Bull challenges. Check local listings! :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Sutton Harbour Footbridge a convenient and interesting link between key Plymouth attractions. While its function as a swing bridge is appreciated, some find its frequent closures disruptive. The bridge is a picturesque part of the harbour, especially during events.
"Pedestrian swing bridge that is open from 0600 hrs to 2300hrs each day (except for Christmas Day), connecting the East and West piers to Sutton Harbour. The bridge only opens and is briefly closed to pedestrians for short periods for watercraft to enter Sutton Harbour, NOTE when the bridge is closed please DO NOT try to force the gates open as this can damage the mechanism and mean the bridge become inoperable. When closed pedestrians may gain access by walking the 'long way' round by way of the footpath around the North side of the harbour, this may entail a extra 10-20 minute walk. Cyclists are reminded to please DISMOUNT when crossing the bridge."
Baz Willmott
"I arrived here at the beginning of January. the weather is not favorable. the bridge was open and I could cross it"
luciana toma
"This bridge is closed more often than a Royal Mail Parcel office. Ridiculous. Sort it out!"
Graham Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The footbridge is centrally located in Plymouth's harbour area, easily accessible on foot from the city center. It connects the East and West piers, making it a convenient link between attractions like the Plymouth Museum and the Aquarium.
Yes, there are several car parks around Sutton Harbour and the Barbican. However, it's advisable to check real-time availability and pricing as they can vary.
Plymouth city center is well-served by buses, and from there, it's a short walk to Sutton Harbour. The harbour area itself is a hub for local transport links.
The bridge is best accessed by walking from the Barbican or the waterfront areas. It's a picturesque walk, especially during events.
As a swing bridge, it is generally level and accessible. However, brief closures for boat traffic might require using the longer detour route, which should also be checked for accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, crossing the Sutton Harbour Footbridge is free for pedestrians. It serves as a public walkway connecting different parts of the harbour.
The bridge is open daily from 0600 hrs to 2300 hrs, except for Christmas Day. However, it does close briefly for watercraft to enter or leave Sutton Harbour.
The frequency of bridge openings depends on the marine traffic schedule for Sutton Harbour. It's best to be prepared for potential brief closures.
No, there is no booking system. Pedestrians cross on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the bridge's operational needs for marine traffic.
If the bridge is closed, pedestrians can take a detour around the north side of the harbour, which typically adds 10-20 minutes to the journey.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The bridge itself is a historic swing bridge, and crossing it offers great views of the boats in Sutton Harbour and the surrounding waterfront. It's a key part of the harbour's charm.
Absolutely! The bridge, the boats, and the harbour provide excellent photographic opportunities, especially during events or at sunset.
Sutton Harbour frequently hosts events, such as the popular Pirate Weekend, and has previously been a site for challenges like the Red Bull Up the Mast. Check local listings for upcoming events. +1
The swing span of the bridge is approximately 750 tons, showcasing its impressive engineering.
Cyclists are reminded to dismount and walk their bikes across the bridge to ensure safety and prevent damage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Sutton Harbour and the adjacent Barbican area are packed with a variety of restaurants, pubs, and cafes offering diverse cuisines.
You'll find everything from fresh seafood to international dishes. Many establishments offer waterfront dining with great views.
Dining options range from casual pubs to more upscale restaurants, so there are choices to suit various budgets.
Yes, numerous cafes are dotted around the harbour, perfect for a break while exploring the area.
Many eateries in the vicinity offer takeaway options, ideal if you want to enjoy your meal with a view of the harbour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When the bridge is closed for boats, the detour is manageable, but keep an eye on little ones. The area is generally safe and engaging, with many family-friendly eateries nearby. Consider visiting during off-peak hours if you prefer a calmer experience, or embrace the lively atmosphere during events.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Many of the surrounding pubs and cafes offer affordable meal options or takeaway, allowing you to enjoy the waterfront setting without breaking the bank. Exploring the Barbican and the harbour on foot is a fantastic way to experience Plymouth's maritime charm on a budget.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour, especially sunset, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the harbour's ambiance. Events like Pirate Weekend also offer dynamic scenes and colorful characters to photograph. Remember to be mindful of the bridge's operational times if you're planning shots that involve its movement.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Engineering of Sutton Harbour Footbridge
Initially, tolls were collected on the bridge until 1903. The railway line it served closed in 1965, leaving the bridge solely for road traffic. Today, it continues its vital role as a pedestrian link, connecting the East and West piers of Sutton Harbour, and is a recognized landmark in Plymouth's maritime landscape. Its historical significance is matched by its ongoing practical utility.
Maintenance and Operation: The bridge operates daily from 0600 to 2300, with brief closures for marine traffic. Visitors are urged not to force the gates when closed, as this can damage the mechanism and render the bridge inoperable. The bridge's operation is crucial for maintaining access to the harbour for boats while ensuring pedestrian flow.
Experiencing Events at Sutton Harbour
Beyond themed weekends, the harbour has also hosted adrenaline-pumping challenges. The Red Bull Up the Mast competition, for instance, has seen brave participants tackle a demanding climb at the Barbican and Sutton Harbour, adding an element of excitement and spectacle to the waterfront. These events showcase the harbour's versatility as a venue, capable of hosting both family-friendly fun and high-energy competitions.
Planning for Events: When visiting during major events, expect higher crowd numbers. It's advisable to check local event listings in advance to plan your visit and make the most of the unique atmosphere. The bridge's operation might also be affected by event logistics, so staying informed is key.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit