Bridging solely using the pile method is a rare occurrence today.

Pile bridges have been used to cross rivers and other geological chasms since at least the time of the Roman Empire.

Groups of piles, usually made of elm or oak were driven together into the soil.

A group so hammered was called a "straddle" and atop as well as surrounding the straddle was a pile supported platform called a "starling" which was filled with rubble before the pier and bridge deck were added.

However, even when the first version of the bridge as a stone structure was commenced during the reign of Henry II in 1176, oak piles were used as part of the construction.