Based on the classic design at Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the UK, this elegant design has been used for hundreds years around the world. In fact Leonardo da Vinci invented a swing bridge in the 1400’s! Swing bridges are still used widely around the world.
The Newcastle swing bridge actually uses hydraulics to work - very interesting, and there are many cool designs of swing bridges all over the world. Not all have a rounded truss design like ours, but we though it looked pretty rad.
Using a wooden bevel gear, the bridge swings open and closed, just like a real swing bridge!
Great for wooden trains and car sets, kids can learn about gears and have the neatest bridge on the block. Sir Topham Hatt and Thomas would be very impressed, as this bridge works to get trains there and back (in a hurry!), and has room for a Lego or other bridge keepers in the control center over the bridge.
For ease of storage, the bridge ends can be removed easily and re-assembled again, since we use a simple, yet strong, slot construction
Kit comes complete with easy to follow instructions, all you need are some scissors.
Comes with great educational information and links to learn more about levers and bridges.
Easy to make in an hour or two, and has stickers for signs and the road.
