In the heart of the North York Moors National Park is a bridge that has inspired ballads, poems, and films over the decades. Beggar's Bridge may not look particularly impressive or be unusual in appearance but it carries a lot of significance.
The single arched packhorse bridge across the River Esk leads from Glaisdale to Limber Hill Wood has a romantic tale behind its build. Legend has it that it all began when a Thomas Ferris fell in love with an Agnes Richardson.
Tom was the son of a poor sheep farmer and wanted to spend his life with Agnes. Unfortunately she came from a squire family and her father did not give Tom permission to marry her as he dismissed him as a beggar.
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This did not deter Tom however, as he took off to sea with hopes of returning as a rich man. But before he left, Tom and Agnes had to say goodbye for what could be the last time.
On that fateful day heavy rain made the river between them impassable and they were left with no choice than to part ways without saying goodbye. With this, Tom vowed he would build a bridge over the River Esk one day.
Tom's wishes at sea came true and he made a fortune in the Caribbean. He later returned to Yorkshire a wealthy merchant and became the Sheriff of Hull in 1614, before becoming mayor in 1620.
Upon his return, he once again asked for Agnes' hand in marriage and having seen the evidence of his fortune, her father did not raise any objections this time around. Unable to bear the thought of future lovers going through a similarly painful experience, made good on his promise.
It is thought Beggar's Bridge, a single arch spanning just over 15m, was built in 1619. It may incorporate stonework from a 14th century bridge that had collapsed by 1577 and features the heavily weathered initials of Thomas Ferris.
Some locals believe the bridge was simply built as a tribute to his one great love Agnes, YorkshireLive reports.
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