Bow Bridge In 1110 Matilda, wife of Henry I, ordered a distinctively bow-shaped (arched) bridge to be built over the River Lea, together with a causeway across the marshes along the line now occupied by Stratford High Street. Reports state she (or her retinue) encountered problems crossing the river to get to Barking Abbey.
Bow Bridge In 1110 Matilda, wife of Henry I ordered a distinctively bow-shaped (arched) bridge to be built over the River Lea together with a causeway across the marshes along the line now occupied by Stratford High Street Reports state she (or her retinue) encountered problems crossing the river to get to Barking Abbey