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Denton Bridge
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Denton Bridge is a vital piece of infrastructure that connects St. Mary's Island, home to the capital city of Banjul, with the mainland of The Gambia. Spanning the Oyster Creek, the bridge is named after Sir George Chardin Denton, a former British Governor of the colony. The original structure was completed in 1959, while the current modern bridge was built in the 1980s to accommodate increasing traffic demands. Beyond its strategic importance for commuters, the area surrounding the bridge is renowned for its lush mangrove forests and diverse birdlife. It also serves as a primary launching point for boat trips through the winding waterways of the mangrove swamps. Local fishermen are frequently seen along the bridge's edges, utilizing the vantage point for their daily catch.
- Location: Gambia
- Top sights: Denton Bridge (The Gambia) · Mile 2 Prison
- Nearby: Tallinding (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 0 | 5 | 2 | 4 | 74 | 187 | 306 | 231 | 67 | 3 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Denton Bridge is an important transport link and can be crossed on foot or by vehicle. Access is possible at any time as it is a public bridge. There is no entrance fee.
Typical hours
The bridge is open around the clock and can be crossed at any time. There are no fixed opening or closing hours, except for maintenance works. The best time for a visit is during the day.
Photography
Photography is allowed from the bridge. Especially beautiful are shots at sunrise or sunset with the water in the background. Be careful of road traffic.
Time needed
Allow about 15 to 30 minutes for a walk across the bridge. The crossing itself is short, but the view of the water and surroundings invites you to linger.
Combine with
The bridge is located directly at the entrance to Banjul. In the city you can visit Albert Market and the National Museum. The nearby beaches are also worth a trip.
Getting there
The bridge is the only road link from Banjul to the mainland. You can reach it by car, taxi or on foot from Banjul. Buses and minibuses cross the bridge.
Insider tip
Cross the bridge on foot to enjoy the cool breeze from the water. Watch out for traffic as the bridge is busy. Early morning is the quietest.
Geography
Facts
- The original Denton Bridge was officially opened in 1959.
- It is named after Sir George Chardin Denton, Governor from 1900 to 1911.
- The bridge spans Oyster Creek at a vital strategic bottleneck.
- The current structure has a total length of approximately 120 meters.
- It provides the only permanent road link to the capital city of Banjul.
- The surrounding area is a highly-rated destination for birdwatchers.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Denton Bridge (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which places does Denton Bridge connect?
It connects Banjul Island with the mainland at Oyster Creek.
Can you fish on the bridge?
Many locals fish there, but it's not advisable for tourists due to the traffic.
Are there boat tours nearby?
Yes, many boat trips into the mangroves start from the bridge.
Is stopping on the bridge allowed?
Stopping by car is usually prohibited for security reasons.
What is the condition of the bridge?
It is a modern concrete bridge and safe for all types of vehicles.
Denton Bridge: where is it located?
Denton Bridge is located in Gambia.
Denton Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Denton Bridge (The Gambia), Mile 2 Prison.
Denton Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Denton Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
Denton Bridge is a vital piece of infrastructure that connects St.
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History & landmarks
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Kachikally Sacred Crocodile Pool
A centuries-old sacred pool in Bakau, famous for its tame crocodiles and fertility rituals.
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A distinctive point on the coast where the Gambia River and the Atlantic Ocean meet.
Kachikally Crocodile Pool
A centuries-old sacred Mandinka site, famous for its tame crocodiles and fertility rituals.
Bakau Botanical Garden
A peaceful garden near the coast housing a collection of tropical plants and trees, as well as many bird species.
Serekunda Central Market
The largest and most visited market in the country, a labyrinth of colors, smells, and local trade.