The Royal Albert Bridge over the Tamar at Saltash is one of Brunel's most notable bridges. The two trusses were built and raised into position from barges in 1857/8. The Royal Albert is the last and greatest of Isambard's railway works. Its 2200 feet includes two 455 foot spans. The side spans are supported by piers 70-90 feet apart. Brunel wanted one 1000 foot span, but ground conditions were difficult. Note the three classical forms - a beam, suspended from a wrought iron arch.

Above photograph published in Victorian Life in Photographs, Thames and Hudson publ. with photographic research by Harold Chapman 1980.

The central span was lifted into place from barges (source of photograph unknown).

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