The first bridge at Whorlton was started on 9th June 1829, on 13th October 1829 the incomplete bridge was swept away in a huge flood.

The foundation of the north pier of the replacement chain bridge was laid on 19th August 1830 with the main chains being slung on 1st April 1831, the complete bridge opened on 7th July 1831.

The architect was Mr Green of Newcastle and the builder Welsh of Gateshead. The toll booth at the north end carries a reproduction of the fees to cross.