gaols workhouses and hospitals

© P.E. Blanche 1999

BRIDGE WORKHOUSE Union Row

The picture above shows the renovated entrance to the original workhouse at Bridge which is now called "The Close". Through the dark gateway lies a beautiful collection of small cottages forming a large square. Iron railings still lead to first floor (second floor if you're from North America) entrances as they would have done when this was a workhouse.

However, the layout, the iron railings and the original building are where the similarities to the workhouse end. Now the renovated cottages serve as retirement homes for many of the residents and the gardens and grounds are beautifully kept and are an absolute picture (see below).

The inner courtyard
© P.E. Blanche 1999