Bridges - 47 Double Bridge     (aka Dogmersfield Bridge) PREVIOUS       NEXT

As one approaches this bridge, which is about 1½ miles above Chequer's Bridge, it is just possible to see it in the distance, shaded by the summer foliage of the overhanging trees.     As are most bridges in this area, this is another example of the original brick-arch hump-backed bridges built towards the end of the 18th century when the canal was cut, and now surviving into the 21st century.     At some time the arch has been reinforced with steel ties, pattress plates and straps. It has been damaged several times over the years by vehicles, notably during the 2nd World War.     In those troubled times the parapets were temporarily lowered by the War Department to aid visibility. The bridge carries a minor road from Dogmersfield to the A287 main road.     Just above the bridge, some remnants still exist from the WW2 defences put up in 1940 when the area was part of a defensive line running from Bristol to Margate.

Even on the towpath side, evidence still exists of these World War Two defences.     On the left just here it is possible to get a glimpse through the trees to what was the Dower House to Dogmersfield Park Built in 1728 as a private residence, it has had various owners throughout its history.     During WW2, Dogmersfield House was used to accomodate Dutch and Polish airmen. Then in 1956 it became the College of De La Selle Brothers, a school for Spanish priests. Between 1973 and 1979 the school became Danes Hill Preparatory School. In 1981 a fire destroyed the building, caused during the treatment of roof timbers against dry rot. Then Amdahl Corporation (a US IT company) restored the building and opened the Robert Adams wing in 1986.  It has recently been opened as the Four Seasons Hotel.   In 1996 Systems Union acquired the house, leasing a part to Amdahl. In 2004 it was being converted into a luxury hotel with two new extra wings added. This is due to open late 2004 or early 2005.     About another 350 yards further up the canal and Blacksmith's Bridge is reached.   NEXT - Blacksmith's Bridge BACK

Last updated August 2004