Location: Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AT
Pulteney Bridge is one of the most photographed examples of Georgian architecture in Bath and a truly unique landmark. Built in 1769 by renowned architect Robert Adam, it’s one of only four bridges in the world to have shops lining its full span on both sides, making it an architectural marvel as much as a working street. It’s named after Frances Pulteney, wife of William Johnstone Pulteney, whose ambitious plans for a “new town” on the east side of the city called for a bridge spectacular enough to rival John Wood’s development on the west. With its classical pediments, pilasters and distinctive leaded domes, the bridge remains one of the world’s most beautiful and romantic, best admired from Parade Gardens or the Weir. It even had its moment on the big screen, appearing in the 2012 film adaptation of Les Misérables.