Its various names, such as the Clateryngbrugge, are thought to derive from the clattering of horses' hooves as they crossed the bridge.

The bridge also featured in the traditional game of football held in the centre of Kingston each year on Shrove Tuesday.

The lower portion consists of three arches made of properly dressed ashlar stones with a filling of flint rubble.

[8] In the late 18th century, the authorities tried to suppress the game on account of its violence and disruption of the town's trade.

The Riot Act was read in 1798 and the cavalry at Hampton Court was sent for but did not respond as they were playing football too.