Prebends Bridge is one of the three historic stone-arch bridges crossing the River Wear in the centre of Durham, England. Designed by George Nicholson, Prebends Bridge was built between 1772 and 1778. It replaced an earlier footbridge from 1574 that was destroyed in the great flood of 1771.
 
Interestingly it was built slightly north at a wider section of the river to maximize the picturesque views of the cathedral. Trees were also planted along the banks to enhance the Romantic landscape, reflecting the tastes of the late eighteenth century..J.M.W. Turner loved this spot.
 
Interesting facts...
 
Originally, the bridge was a private road for the Dean and Chapter of Durham, not a public thoroughfare, hinting at its exclusive and somewhat secretive past.
The poem inscribed on Prebends Bridge in Durham is from Sir Walter Scott’s famous poem “The Lay of the Last Minstrel”, specifically the lines known as “Grey Towers of Durham”.