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Phipps Bridge
At Phipps Bridge the River Wandle marks the ancient boundary between Mitcham and Merton. The first reference to'Pypesbrige' is in a Tudor document, but there is evidence of a settlement nearby in Roman times. Valued for its fishery and waterfowl in the Middle Ages, the river also became a focus of industry. 'Pippesmoln' was mentioned as early as 1263, to be followed centuries later by calico bleaching and printing works, a silk mill and eventually paint factories, all of which have now gone. Today an industrial estate occupies the west, or Merton, bank of the river, whilst in Mitcham housing estates cover the former watermeadows and bleaching grounds. A bridge remains, however, giving access to the Wandle Trail, an attractive walk following the entire course of the river.
