Information Board at Burrowbridge

Image: © David Hillas Taken: 8 Aug 2023

This information board is located off the A361 road west of where it goes over the River Parrett. It has the following wording and images: BURROWBRIDGE TOLL GATE Left column Image of the Toll Gate Situated on the main Taunton to Wells road, almost at the foot of Burrow Mump, the bridge over the River Parrett is close to the spot where King Alfred first built his wooden bridge. Under an Act of Parliament during the reign of King George IV, a body of Commissioners was created and allowed to pull down the then existing bridge and erect the one that stands today. It was completed in 1826 by the builder, John Stone from Yarcombe. Middle column The Toll To pay back the investors who provided the money for the building of the bridge a toll was set. 'A toll for every calf, swine, sheep or lamb is one farthing; for every ox or cow (not dragging) one halfpenny; one penny if the animal is dragging. Minimum toll for motor cars is threepence, rising to 1s 6d for heavy vehicles'. During the total life of the toll, over £24,000 was paid for the rights, varying between £41 and £1,830. The toll was discontinued on April 1st 1945. Image of the Toll Gate Right column Image of The Sandglass Ritual Each year the sale or 'letting' of the rights 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 (now demolished) adjoining the bridge and the right to collect the tolls for the ensuing twelve months from noon on 1st April. Foot of the board 19th January, 1940 'Snow on road made the bridge crossing difficult. Ashes were spread to give better grip on the icy surface'.

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