Loopline Bridge 🇮🇪

Spanning the River Liffey and several Dublin streets, the Loopline Bridge (also known as the Liffey Viaduct or Droichead na Lúblíne) is a notable railway structure designed by John Chaloner Smith. Built between 1889 and 1891 for the Dublin, Wicklow and Wexford Railway, this wrought iron lattice girder bridge sits roughly six metres above street level on a double row of piers with five spans.

You will find it carries two railway tracks, serving as an essential rail link connecting lines south of Dublin to Connolly Station and destinations to the north. Originally constructed to facilitate transatlantic mail moving from Kingstown (Dún Laoghaire) and Queenstown (Cobh), the structure generated historic controversy for blocking views downriver to The Custom House.

Even today, its appearance sparks lively debate—historian Richard Killeen famously dubbed it "one of the city's true eyesores." While Iarnród Éireann historically used its façades for billboard advertising, these displays were scaled back around 2006 to protect the skyline. As a prominent urban feature since 1891, the bridge holds a special place in local culture, even earning a mention in classic Dublin literature as a landmark over the chafing waters of the Liffey.

What to see at Loopline Bridge

• Historic 1889–1891 wrought iron lattice girder design by engineer John Chaloner Smith
• Vital railway link featuring two tracks set six metres above street level over five spans
• Fascinating history of local debate regarding its visual impact on nearby The Custom House
• Literary connection as a prominent Dublin landmark featured in famous local writing

Visiting tips

Look out for the bridge's five-span wrought iron lattice girders while strolling along the River Liffey near George's Quay and The Custom House.

How long: 15-30 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Loopline Bridge is easy to reach on Dublin’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Dublin Castle and Spire of Dublin. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Dublin travel guide.