Chelsea Bridge facts for kids
Chelsea Bridge is a cool bridge that crosses the River Thames in west London. It connects the area of Chelsea on the north side of the river to Battersea on the south side. It's a busy crossing for cars and people every day!
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History of Chelsea Bridge
There have actually been two Chelsea Bridges built in this exact spot. People have crossed the river here for a very long time, even before the bridges were built!
The First Bridge (Victoria Bridge)
The very first Chelsea Bridge was called Victoria Bridge. It opened way back in 1857. Imagine how different London looked in those days!
The Current Bridge
The old Victoria Bridge was replaced by the bridge you see today. The current Chelsea Bridge opened in 1937. It was built to be wider and stronger to handle more cars and people.
In June 2012, Chelsea Bridge was part of a special event. It was highlighted during Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee Pageant. This was a big celebration on the River Thames for the Queen's 60 years on the throne.
See also
Images for kids
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Chelsea and Battersea in 1891, showing (left to right) Old Battersea Bridge, Albert Bridge, Victoria (now Chelsea) Bridge and Grosvenor Railway Bridge.
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The first Chelsea Bridge as seen from Battersea in 1858, shortly after opening. The Victoria Tower of the Palace of Westminster is shown under construction in the background.
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The Battersea Shield
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Battersea (top), Victoria (centre) and Vauxhall (bottom) bridges, 1859
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With four lanes of traffic, the new bridge's roadway is much wider than that of its predecessor.
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Being self-anchored, the bridge uniquely in London has no anchoring abutments.
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As a self-anchored bridge, the suspension cables attach directly to the deck and do not extend to the ground.
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Coat of arms of the Metropolitan Borough of Battersea on a Chelsea Bridge lamp post
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Chelsea Bridge's illuminations
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Battersea footbridge curves beneath Chelsea Bridge.
See also
In Spanish: Puente de Chelsea para niños
