The bridge's opening in 1903 was presided over by King Edward VII.
The current structure replaced a stone bridge built in 1789 that stood slightly to the west.
The bridge is situated at a point on the Thames where the river is highly tidal, exposing significant mudflats at low tide.
The structural engineer, Sir John Wolfe Barry, was also responsible for the design of Tower Bridge.
The site of the current bridge was historically known as 'Kew Ferry' prior to the construction of any bridge.
The bridge provides a clear view of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, which lies on the southern bank.
The masonry used in the bridge's construction includes Cornish granite for the piers and abutments.
Kew Bridge is a Grade II listed bridge spanning the River Thames, connecting the London Borough of Hounslow to the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. The current three-span steel arch structure opened to the public in 1903 as a replacement for an earlier 18th-century stone bridge. It features distinctive decorative ironwork and provides significant vantage points for observing tidal river patterns. The bridge serves as a major road crossing and connects the Kew area to Brentford. It stands near the confluence of the River Brent and the River Thames. The architectural design by Sir John Wolfe Barry and Cuthbert A. Brereton replaced a structure that had become inadequate for the increasing volume of horse-drawn and early motorized traffic. The structure is situated in a historically significant area associated with the development of the Thames as a trade artery.
From the northern river path on the Brentford side looking south toward the bridge arches.
Walk across the bridge to the north side for views of the Brentford riverside and the Thames Lock.
Visit during low tide to see the riverbed and the historical debris exposed by the receding water.
Carry a light jacket as the open nature of the bridge makes it susceptible to river winds.
Attempting to climb the bridge railings or obstructing the busy pedestrian and cyclist lanes.
