The Toll Bridge

The Bridge Road bridge over River Parrett. Dated 1826, north parapet rebuilt mid C20. Probably designed by Philip Ilett of Taunton, contractor John Stone of Yarcombe. Squared and coursed granite, limestone voussoirs with V joints, granite saddleback coping, curved continuous block course of blue lias, north parapet steel railings. Single span elliptical arch with circular voids in the spandrels to enable the tidal waters of the river to pass through. Parapet swept back with 12 recessed blank panels facing river, on road front central inserted panel inscribed "John Stone Builder Yarcombe 1826". At about 21 m (68 feet) this is said to be the longest single span masonry road bridge in the county. Until 1945 this was a toll bridge. The Toll House During the total life of the toll, over £24,000* has been paid for the rights. The amount paid annually varied widely, but the highest occurred in 1938 when £1,830* was paid. This meant that the owner had to collect 146,000 threepenny* tolls before making any profit! On 1st. April 1945, the ownership of the toll bridge, was transferred to Somerset County Council. The change of ownership saw the end of some 117 years of toll on the bridge at Burrowbridge. * Pre-decimal currency The Sandglass Ritual Each year the sale or ‘letting’ generally took place in the Langport Arms hotel. ; The glass, which was placed on the table in front of the Commissioners, was turned after each bid. The sand took one minute to run through. ; When it had been turned three times without a fresh bid the last bidder became the purchaser. ; This entitled him, or her, to possession of the little cottage adjoining the bridge and the right to collect the tolls for the ensuing twelve months from noon on 1st. April.