A special plaque and timeline have been officially unveiled in Conwy to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the iconic Conwy suspension bridge and cob, which transformed travel across North Wales. The Institution of Civil Engineers North Wales Cymru Chair, Ian Davies, unveiled the plaque alongside Mayor of Conwy and Councillor Sian Grady, and Councillor Trystan Lewis, Chairman of Conwy County Borough Council.
Thomas Telford's Vision
The cob and suspension bridge represent the vision and ingenuity of Thomas Telford, the first President of the Institution of Civil Engineers. In 1815, Parliament commissioned Telford to improve the London to Holyhead Road, including the link to Chester. He completed the cob in 1825 and the suspension bridge in 1826, enhancing the route from Chester to Bangor.
Before these structures were built, crossing the Conwy estuary was only possible by ferry across a dangerous tidal channel. The suspension bridge was gifted to the National Trust in 1965 and is now Grade 1 listed. It remains one of the three oldest road suspension bridges in the world.
Commemorative Event
Ian Davies, ICE Wales Cymru North Wales Chair, said: “Today’s unveiling marks 200 years of the Conwy bridge and cob that were built by our first President, Thomas Telford. These crossings historically connected Wales to England, Ireland and mainland Europe. Engineers play a vital role in shaping culture, connection and community for future generations.”
ICE Wales Cymru Director, Keith Jones, added: “2026 is the year of celebrating bridges in Wales. Earlier this year, we celebrated 200 years of the iconic Menai Bridge. Today, we are celebrating 200 years of the Conwy crossings. Then and now, these crossings have made crossing estuaries safer, connected people, and stood the test of time.”
Community Impact
Councillor Trystan Lewis, Chairman of Conwy County Borough Council, said: “I’m delighted to join the celebration of 200 years of the Conwy Suspension Bridge and Cob. These iconic landmarks, enjoyed by our communities, showcase outstanding engineering, our unique historic environment, as well as the dedication of generations who have cared for them.”
The unveiling took place at the Conwy waterfront, highlighting the enduring legacy of Telford's engineering achievements and their lasting impact on connectivity and heritage in North Wales.
