Historic tradition

A quaint and historic bridge and causeway provides a handy shortcut from the town centre of Totton to the adjoining Eling district and village of Marchwood in Hampshire.
The bridge and causeway  cross the point where the picturesque wildlife haven Bartley Water flows into the tidal waters of Eling Creek on the northern reaches of Southampton Water.
It’s unique because it is the only remaining medieval toll bridge and history has it that it has been in use since the 15th century.
If you want to cross it today, you still have to pay, it is  a toll charge of £1, and this quaint toll booth is manned by the local authority.
There are exceptions for vehicles belonging to the local council, emergency vehicles, Royal Mail and if you have a disabled badge, or if you are going to the nearby church for a service, wedding or funeral.

A few years ago I drove this way often, the quickest route to my favourite pub at the time which had a well deserved reputation for providing one of the best pub lunches around. Fortunately, the daily toll was much less than £1 at that time.