Westminster Bridge from the River, Looking South

The arches of Westminster Bridge stretch across the River Thames, linking Westminster, on the right, to Lambeth, on the left. At intervals along the bridge are a series of stone alcoves under which pedestrians could seek shelter in showery weather.

Until Westminster Bridge opened, in 1750, London Bridge was the only central London crossing over the Thames. By the 18th century, the density of transport using the old bridge was too great for was really a medieval structure.

In providing a much-needed road route to the West End from the south, the new bridge significantly reduced delays and congestion for all traffic. It was immediately popular with Londoners. In fact, just before the official opening on 19 November 1750, the military had to be called in to control an over-eager crowd attempting to cross the new bridge.