Ha'penny Bridge

As one of Dublin’s most cherished landmarks, the Ha’penny Bridge, officially known as the Liffey Bridge, offers an iconic crossing over the River Liffey. Since its construction in 1816, this white, cast-iron pedestrian bridge has been a constant amidst the city’s evolving landscape and a beloved symbol of Ireland’s capital.

History Constructed as a toll bridge by William Walsh in 1816, the Ha’penny Bridge gets its informal name from the halfpenny toll pedestrians had to pay to cross it for the first century of its use. Though the toll is long gone, use of the bridge has increased dramatically from its original allowance of only 450 people per day to more than 30,000.

How to Get There The Ha’penny Bridge is centrally located in Dublin and easily reachable from anywhere in the city center. It’s situated midway between O’Connell Street and Grafton Street, two of the city’s largest shopping destinations, with Temple Bar, Dublin’s cultural hub, on the south side. The nearest Luas tram stops are at Jervis or Abbey Street on the Luas Red Line.

List of Attractions

1. Bridge Structure: A charming example of 19th-century cast-iron architecture.
2. Stunning Views: From the bridge, you have a perfect view up and down the River Liffey.
3. Nearby Attractions: Dublin’s cultural heart, Temple Bar, the bustling O’Connell and Grafton Streets, the iconic Dublin Spire, and the General Post Office.

Ticket Information Being a public pedestrian bridge, access to the Ha’penny Bridge is free and open at all times.

List of Tips for Visiting

1. Visit at sunrise or sunset for beautifully lit scenic views.
2. Take a stroll across the bridge either early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
3. Practice “Leave No Trace” principles; while love locks were once common on the bridge, they are now discouraged and regularly removed due to their damaging effect on the historic structure.
4. Don’t miss capturing the bridge’s reflection on the river on a calm day – it makes for great photos.
5. Explore the nearby areas to enjoy ambience-rich pubs, eateries, and shops.