The parish boundaries for centuries have been approximately the lock's middle then immediately at the bridge a tiny dog-leg into the right bank, return to the cut for a distance, then a quarter turn to assume the midpoint of left channel – it is a mystery as to the exact shape of the island during the Middle Ages and before;[2][3] however many former fords cross river islands.

[5] The Lechlade hospital (hospitalry) also recorded as priory during its existence maintained St. John's bridge; it is known the prior was bestowed grants of pontage in 1338, 1341, and 1388.

[5] By 1831 the bridge was dilapidated and an inconclusive dispute over the liability to repair it arose between the county and the occupiers of the former hospital (priory) lands.

[5] The county later accepted responsibility, employing a local builder, Peter Cox, to rebuild the bridge as a single arch.

[5] In the late 17th century and early 18th the right to take toll was disputed by the bargemen and in the time of Sir Thomas Cutler led on one occasion to the arches being chained over.