In the Roman period, the River Derwent could be crossed near the fort of Derventio by a ford.

The first bridge in the area is believed to have been built during the existence of the Kingdom of Northumbria, a narrow, timber structure, which may have been on the site of the ford, or about 160 yards (150 m) downstream.

[1] In 1727, a new bridge was constructed, a further 160 yards (150 m) downstream, where the river is narrower but deeper.

It has been grade II* listed since 1952, and was formerly also a scheduled ancient monument.

[1] In 1967, a steel footbridge was constructed alongside the road bridge.