Loy’s Station Covered Bridge | Frederick

London Bridge is a historic bridge relocated from London, England, to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, USA.

The bridge spans the Bridgewater Channel, connecting the mainland of Lake Havasu City to an island.

Visual Characteristics

The bridge is constructed from Portland stone blocks, originally quarried in the early 19th century. It features a series of arches, with the central arch spanning approximately 150 feet. The total length of the bridge is 930 feet, and its width is 50 feet. The stonework exhibits a weathered appearance consistent with its age and previous location.

Location & Access Logistics

London Bridge is situated in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. It is accessible via McCulloch Boulevard South. The bridge is approximately 1 mile south of the city center. Ample parking is available in designated lots on both sides of the bridge, including the Lake Havasu Museum of History parking area and the parking facilities near the English Village. Public transport options are limited; however, local taxi services and ride-sharing are available within Lake Havasu City.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The original London Bridge was constructed between 1824 and 1831, designed by John Rennie the Elder and completed by his son, John Rennie the Younger. It served as a vital crossing over the River Thames in London. The bridge was dismantled in 1967 and purchased by Robert P. McCulloch, who had it shipped to Lake Havasu City and reassembled, completing the relocation in 1971. The geological origin of the area is desert terrain, with the lake itself being an artificial reservoir.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk across the bridge, observing the stonework and the views of Lake Havasu. Boat tours operate beneath the bridge, offering a different perspective. The English Village, located adjacent to the bridge, contains shops and restaurants. Photography of the bridge and its surroundings is a common activity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in the English Village. Shade is provided by the bridge structure itself and by trees in the adjacent English Village. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in this area of Lake Havasu City. Food vendors and restaurants are located within the English Village.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the early morning or late afternoon offers optimal lighting conditions, avoiding harsh midday sun. The best months for visiting are typically March through May and September through November, when temperatures are moderate. There are no tide requirements as the bridge is situated over a lake.

Facts & Legends

A persistent local anecdote claims that Robert P. McCulloch mistakenly believed he was purchasing the Tower Bridge, not London Bridge. However, historical records confirm the sale of London Bridge. The bridge's relocation involved numbering each stone for reassembly in Arizona.

Nearby Landmarks

• English Village (0.1km North)
• Lake Havasu Museum of History (0.3km North)
• Rotary Park (1.5km Southwest)
• London Bridge Beach (0.2km East)
• Lake Havasu State Park (2.0km Southeast)