Highlight • Bridge
William Jolly Bridge
Hiking
3.8
(6)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
The William Jolly Bridge is a heritage-listed Art Deco road bridge spanning the Brisbane River in Queensland, Australia. Connecting North Quay in Brisbane's central business district with Grey Street in South Brisbane, this iconic structure stands approximately 71 meters above sea level. It is renowned for its distinctive architectural style and its three graceful arches, making it a prominent landmark in the city's landscape.
Visitors consistently highlight the bridge's striking beauty and historical significance as a must-see attraction. Its unique Art Deco design, featuring a steel frame encased in concrete that resembles light-coloured stone, offers a captivating visual experience. The bridge's elegant arches and the panoramic views it provides of the Brisbane River and the city skyline are frequently praised by those who cross it.
For those planning a visit, the William Jolly Bridge offers dedicated paths for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience. These paths provide a safe way to traverse the bridge and take in the surroundings. As a family-friendly destination, it's suitable for all ages, and a leisurely walk across the bridge typically takes around 10-15 minutes, offering ample time to appreciate its design and the river views.
The bridge is a popular spot for walks and cycling throughout the day, but many find the best time to walk the William Jolly Bridge is during the evening. Since 2009, the bridge has been illuminated with artistic light displays, transforming it into a vibrant spectacle against the night sky. This makes it a particularly enchanting experience for an evening stroll or bike ride, offering a different perspective of this historic landmark.
Walking across the William Jolly Bridge offers a unique opportunity to appreciate its intricate details, such as the decorative "grotesques" that adorn its structure. From the bridge, you can enjoy expansive viewpoints of the Brisbane River, the bustling South Bank precinct, and the city's impressive architecture. It's a fantastic way to connect with Brisbane's history and enjoy its contemporary urban charm.
Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll, a scenic cycle, or simply admiring a piece of architectural history, the William Jolly Bridge provides a memorable experience. You can discover various William Jolly Bridge Brisbane walking paths and routes that incorporate this landmark into longer explorations of the city. Hikers and cyclists can use komoot to plan their adventures, finding routes that pass over or near this significant Brisbane landmark.
Tips
February 27, 2026
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near William Jolly Bridge
4.8
(6)
92
hikers
18.0km
04:37
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
41
hikers
17.1km
04:20
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
58
hikers
8.22km
02:06
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 0 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 14 June
23°C
12°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the William Jolly Bridge suitable for dog walking?
Yes, the William Jolly Bridge is generally dog-friendly. Many locals enjoy walking their dogs across the dedicated pedestrian paths. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What are the parking options near the William Jolly Bridge?
While there isn't dedicated parking directly on the bridge, visitors can find various parking options in the surrounding areas of North Quay (Brisbane CBD) and South Brisbane. This includes metered street parking and commercial parking garages. Availability can vary, especially during peak hours or events, so consider public transport as an alternative.
How long does it typically take to walk across the William Jolly Bridge?
A leisurely walk across the William Jolly Bridge typically takes around 10-15 minutes, allowing ample time to appreciate its design and the scenic river views. This duration is for a one-way crossing without extended stops.
Are there any good viewpoints of the William Jolly Bridge or from the bridge itself?
Absolutely! The bridge itself offers expansive viewpoints of the Brisbane River, the bustling South Bank precinct, and the city's impressive architecture. For views of the bridge, consider walking along the river banks on either side, particularly from South Bank Parklands or along North Quay, where its Art Deco arches are prominently visible.
What are the accessibility features of the William Jolly Bridge for pedestrians and cyclists?
The William Jolly Bridge is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring dedicated, wide paths for pedestrians and cyclists on both sides. These paths are relatively flat, making the bridge accessible for most visitors, including those with prams or wheelchairs. There are ramps at either end connecting to the street level.
What is the best time of day to experience the William Jolly Bridge, particularly to avoid crowds?
While the bridge is popular throughout the day, visiting during early mornings on weekdays can offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds. For a different perspective, the bridge is beautifully illuminated with artistic light displays from dusk, offering an enchanting evening stroll, though it can be busier then.
Are there any cafes or restaurants conveniently located near the William Jolly Bridge?
Yes, both sides of the William Jolly Bridge offer numerous dining options. On the South Brisbane side, you'll find a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and bars in the vibrant South Bank Parklands and Grey Street precinct. The North Quay side, being part of the CBD, also has many establishments within a short walking distance.
What kind of wildlife might I spot around the William Jolly Bridge?
While the bridge is an urban structure, the Brisbane River below is home to various bird species, including pelicans, cormorants, and gulls. Keep an eye out for these birds fishing in the river. Occasionally, you might even spot marine life like small fish or even a bull shark, though sightings are rare from the bridge itself.
What is the historical significance of the William Jolly Bridge?
The William Jolly Bridge is a heritage-listed structure, recognized for its architectural and engineering significance. Built between 1928 and 1932 during the Great Depression, it was Australia's first rainbow-arched bridge and a major infrastructure project for the newly formed Greater Brisbane Council. Initially named the Grey Street Bridge, it was renamed in 1955 after William Jolly, Brisbane's first Lord Mayor, who championed its construction. It was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1996.
Can I incorporate the William Jolly Bridge into a longer walking or cycling route?
Absolutely! The William Jolly Bridge serves as an excellent connection point for longer urban adventures. Cyclists and hikers often include it as part of routes exploring the Brisbane Riverwalk, South Bank Parklands, and the CBD. Its central location makes it easy to link up with various trails and paths on both sides of the river.