The bridge crosses Swift Ditch which was at one time the main navigation channel of the River Thames until Abingdon Lock was built in 1790.

[2] It was built as part of an improvement scheme, together with the two bridges at Abingdon and a causeway across Andersey Island.

It is recorded that the completion of Abingdon Bridge severely damaged trade at Wallingford.

[3] In the early 17th century the Oxford-Burcot Commission constructed a lock at the top of Swift Ditch to direct navigation under Culham Bridge and this remained the main route of the Thames until Abingdon Lock was built in 1790.

[2] Sir Henry Gage "while boldly leading his men in a third assault on the enemy... was hit by a bullet and killed".