Galton Bridge was built by Thomas Telford in 1829. It is now only a pedestrian bridge but it was once one of the main road transport routes in and out of Smethwick across the canal.
The bridge crosses the Birmingham Canal Navigation and has a span of 151 feet
(46 metres). It was once the world’s longest single-span bridge and is a Grade I listed building of significant historical interest. The bridge takes its name from Samuel Galton, a well-known Quaker and arms manufacturer who was also a member of the Lunar Society.
It is only by walking under the bridge and along the canal that visitors can see the detail in this magnificent piece of engineering. The nearby railway bridge, still in use today, is nowhere near as impressive.
The old towpath is now a cycle route (NCR 5). Nearby is the Galton Tunnel, which
leads along the canal to the Galton Valley Canal Heritage Centre near Smethwick
Rolfe Street Station.
It is a shame that this bridge is unknown to many people in the West Midlands. While some locals and commuters use the route, many will never have seen one of the most impressive bridges for miles around.
Access to the bridge is from Oldbury Road or Roebuck Lane. Further historical information can be found at the nearby Galton Heritage Centre.
The bridge was cast by Horseley Ironworks of Tipton, founded by Aaron Manby
around 1815. The company also built the first iron steamer in 1821.
Galton Valley Canal Heritage Centre
Brasshouse Lane, Smethwick, B66 1BA
Tel: 0121 558 8195
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