The Ha’penny Bridge runs from Ormond Quay and The Woollen Mills on the northside to Wellington Quay and Merchants Arch on the south.

Used on postcards, t-shirts and many other souvenirs, the pedestrian Ha’penny Bridge symbolises Dublin more than any other construction, business or person.

Originally called Wellington Bridge and built in May 1816, its official name is the Liffey Bridge.

It acquired its popular name on account of a toll that was charged for its use up to 1919.

Featured in many a movie, my own favourite recording is that of the video for the Phil Lynott track, ‘Old town’.

For much of 2001 the bridge was closed for renovation. On its reopening in December 2001, it emerged there were 16 steps on the northern side with 15 on the south, on either side of the central arch. A hazard for those of us around 6 feet in height and in possession of limited vision are the padlocks that are regularly hung on the overhead struts.

An ideal spot from which to look up and down the Liffey and the quays, the Ha’penny Bridge should be avoided at all costs in icy conditions.

Unless of course a bruised backside is something that appeals.

Personally speaking, I am happy to avoid such a scenario.

Bad for the image.