I USED A SONY A7RV WITH A 28-70MM LENS
THE SHAKEY BRIDGE OFFICIALLY NAMED DALY’S BRIDGE [CORK CITY 22 SEPTEMBER 2025]
Upon my arrival in Cork, I made a beeline for Daly’s Bridge. My goal was to photograph the iconic structure with my Sony A7RV, creating a set of reference images to compare against my Leica Q3. However, my plans were unfortunately cut short. Back at the Moxy Hotel, I made the frustrating discovery that I had packed neither a spare battery nor a charger, a simple oversight that prevented any return trips to the area.
Daly’s Bridge: A Cork Landmark
Affectionately known to Corkonians as “The Shakey Bridge,” Daly’s Bridge is a cherished landmark and the only pedestrian suspension bridge in Cork city. Its distinct wobble, storied past, and recent restoration have solidified its place in the hearts of locals.
A Historic Crossing
Before the bridge’s existence, a ferry service operated by the Dooley family provided a crucial connection across the River Lee, linking the residential area of Sunday’s Well with the Mardyke and the newly developing Fitzgerald’s Park. By the early 20th century, demand had outgrown the ferry, and local residents began lobbying for a permanent footbridge.
The bridge was officially commissioned in the mid-1920s. Its construction was made possible by a financial contribution from James Daly, a local butter merchant, which is why its official name is Daly’s Bridge. The structure was a product of modern engineering for its time, designed by the Cork City Engineer Stephen W. Farrington and constructed by the London-based company, David Rowell & Co. It officially opened to the public in 1927.
The bridge’s design is what gives it its famous characteristic. As a suspension bridge with a timber-planked walkway, it was engineered to have a certain amount of flexibility. This inherent movement, or “shake,” quickly earned it its popular nickname, which has endured for generations. For many, walking across and feeling the gentle sway is a quintessential Cork experience.
Restoration: Preserving the Shake
After nearly a century of service, the beloved bridge was showing significant signs of wear and tear, including extensive corrosion. In 2017, inspections concluded that major repairs were necessary to ensure its longevity. A comprehensive €1.7 million restoration project was initiated, funded by Cork City Council, the National Transport Authority, and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.
The restoration was a meticulous process. The main structure was carefully dismantled in sections and transported off-site for specialist repairs. This included:
Removing and replacing all timber decking.
Grit-blasting the original wrought iron latticework to remove corrosion.
Repairing defective steelwork and applying a modern, protective paint system.
Replacing the suspension cables.
Upgrading the approach ramps and public lighting.
A crucial and publicly debated aspect of the project was the preservation of the bridge’s signature “shake.” Engineers carefully modelled the structure’s dynamic response to ensure that, following the repairs, the wobble would be retained. The project was successfully completed, and the bridge was reopened to the public in December 2020, much to the delight of the local community.
An Enduring Local Icon
The Shakey Bridge is more than just a convenient crossing; it’s a piece of living heritage. Its location connecting the tranquil Sunday’s Well area to the beautiful public gardens of Fitzgerald’s Park makes it a popular route for walkers, runners, and families.
The bridge holds a nostalgic value for countless Corkonians who have grown up with it. The act of deliberately jumping on the bridge to make it sway is a rite of passage for many local children. Its recent restoration, particularly the effort to save its defining feature, highlights the deep affection and sense of ownership the community has for this unique landmark. The bridge frequently features in local art, photography, and has even gained international attention, securing its status as an iconic symbol of Cork.