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Sydney Harbour Bridge
By Steve Willard
The Sydney Harbour Bridge (or the Coat Hanger, as it is sometimes called by Australians) is an iconic Sydney landmark and possibly one of the best known bridges in the world.
The bridge spans Sydney Harbour, connecting the CBD adjacent to Circular Quay with Sydney’s North Shore and nearby Luna Park.
The planning of the bridge started in 1890 but the final design was not accepted until 1911. In 1912, John Bradfield was appointed chief engineer of the project.
Bradfield completed his design in 1916, but construction did not commence until 1922, the delay being due to World War One.
Construction works began in 1923 and actual bridge construction began in December 1928. The bridge was officially opened on 19 March 1932.
The road running across the bridge – the Bradfield Highway - carries eight lanes of traffic, a footpath, a bicycle lane and two railway lines. The road across is 2.4 km long, with the actual bridge spanning 1.15 km.
The best way to see the bridge is to walk across it, and enjoy the fabulous views to be enjoyed. The brave hearted may wish to go on a tour involving climbing the arches of the bridge – a popular and quite safe option which many visitors have enjoyed. You can also walk around The Rocks area and Circular Quay, which provide excellent views of the bridge.
Be warned – the bridge and the walkways beneath it can be extremely windy at times – on my last walk under the bridge opposite Luna Park the wind blasted me with sand to the point where it was impossible to walk forward without getting sand in the eyes !
Other good vantage points to see the bridge include from the Opera House, from the deck of one of Sydney’s many ferries or even by train. There is no fee to walk or cycle across the bridge however motorists pay a toll of $3 to cross.
If you need a hotel room or resort for your stay, check out our great rates on Sydney Hotels.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Photo Gallery - Click on thumbnails to see the full sized image
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