The Ha'penny Bridge is one of Dublin’s most beloved and instantly recognisable landmarks, arching gracefully over the River Liffey since 1816. Originally known as the Wellington Bridge, it gained its nickname from the half-penny toll that pedestrians once paid to cross. Made of cast iron and painted white, the elegant pedestrian bridge was the first of its kind in Dublin and has become a symbol of the city’s charm and heritage. Linking the north and south sides of the city, it connects Liffey Street to Temple Bar, one of Dublin’s most vibrant cultural quarters. The bridge offers picturesque views of the river and is a popular spot for photographs, romantic strolls, and daily commutes. Despite changes in the city over two centuries, the Ha'penny Bridge has remained a constant, cherished by locals and visitors alike for its historic character and enduring beauty. A walk across this iconic span is a must for anyone exploring Dublin’s heart.
Dublin IrelandThe Ha’penny Bridge, officially known as the Liffey Bridge, is a historic pedestrian bridge spanning the River Liffey in central Dublin. Built in 1816, it connects Ormond Quay on the north side with Wellington Quay and Temple Bar on the south, making it a vital and picturesque crossing point in the city. The bridge’s name comes from the original half-penny toll charged to cross, a fee abolished in 1919, but the nickname remains deeply rooted in Dublin’s culture. To find the Ha’penny Bridge, head towards O’Connell Street or Temple Bar—two of Dublin’s most famous landmarks. The bridge is just a short walk from both, linking the bustling north side shopping district with the vibrant nightlife and cultural quarter of Temple Bar. Its elegant white iron arch is easily spotted from the quays and is a popular photo stop for visitors. Nearby, you’ll find major attractions such as the GPO, The Spire, Trinity College, Dublin Castle, the Molly Malone Statue, and the Chester Beatty Library, all within a ten-minute walk. The Ha’penny Bridge remains one of Dublin’s most iconic and beloved landmarks, serving as both a practical crossing and a symbol of the city’s charm and history.