John Frost Bridge, Arnhem

Bridge and Historic Site in Arnhem

John Frost Brug, Arnhem
John Frost Brug, Arnhem
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Jaap Mechielsen

The John Frost Bridge (John Frostbrug) is Arnhem's iconic road bridge spanning the Lower Rhine, best known for its role in the Battle of Arnhem during Operation Market Garden. Today it's both a working bridge and a moving memorial landscape, linking the city center with the south bank while offering wide-open views over the river.

It's an easy stop on a self-guided walking tour of Arnhem's WWII sites: stroll the riverside Rijnkade, pause at the memorial areas near the bridge approaches, and (for the best context) pair your walk with the nearby Airborne at the Bridge exhibition overlooking the span.

History and Significance of the John Frost Bridge

The bridge’s story is inseparable from September 1944, when British airborne forces fought to seize and hold Arnhem’s Rhine crossing as part of Operation Market Garden. The battle became one of the most dramatic episodes of the campaign, and the phrase “A Bridge Too Far” entered popular memory through later books and film.

The current bridge is a post-war reconstruction, opened in 1948, built in the same style as the wartime bridge that was ultimately destroyed. It was later named after Major-General John Dutton Frost, who commanded the British troops that reached and defended the bridge during the battle.

Today, the John Frost Bridge is both a piece of living infrastructure and a focal point for remembrance. Annual commemorations and ceremonies in Arnhem often include the bridge, reinforcing its role as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the city's wartime experience.

Things to See and Do in the John Frost Bridge

Start with a slow walk along the riverside on the north bank (Rijnkade) to take in the bridge’s full profile and the sweep of the Lower Rhine. The best views are usually from the quayside paths and the open areas near the bridge approaches, where you can watch boats pass and see Arnhem’s skyline behind you.

For deeper context, step into Airborne at the Bridge (right by the bridge) to connect the scenery with the human stories of the battle. It's a compact, high-impact stop that makes the bridge visit far more meaningful, especially if you're not already familiar with the events of 1944.

If you enjoy photography, come back around blue hour: the bridge lighting and reflections on the water can be striking, and the riverside paths give you multiple angles without needing to stand in traffic-heavy spots.

How to Get to the John Frost Bridge

The nearest major airports are Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), Eindhoven (EIN), and Düsseldorf (DUS), all with onward rail connections to Arnhem. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Arnhem on Booking.com.

Arnhem Centraal is a major Dutch rail hub, and from the station you can reach the bridge area on foot, by bus, or by a short taxi ride depending on your route and pace. Train tickets and schedules are available directly through NS Dutch Railways and NS International for international services. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.

If you're driving, expect city traffic near the riverfront and plan to use public parking garages in central Arnhem, then walk the last stretch to the bridge for the best experience.

Practical Tips on Visiting the John Frost Bridge

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning for quiet views and easy photos, or late afternoon into dusk for atmosphere and lights over the river.
  • How long to spend: 20–40 minutes for a simple walk and viewpoints; 1.5–2 hours if you add the nearby exhibition and riverside stroll.
  • Accessibility: Sidewalks and riverside paths are generally manageable, but some nearby memorial routes and stair-heavy viewpoints can be challenging; stick to the flatter quayside for the easiest visit.
  • Facilities: The bridge itself has no visitor facilities, but you'll find cafés, restrooms, and services in central Arnhem and at nearby visitor points.

Where to Stay Close to the John Frost Bridge

Base yourself in central Arnhem near the station and riverfront so you can walk to the bridge, restaurants, and museums without relying on transport.

Holiday Inn Express Arnhem A practical, well-located choice near Arnhem Centraal for easy arrivals and quick walks toward the river.

Hotel Haarhuis A classic, full-service stay right by the station, ideal if you want comfort plus a central base for day trips.

NH Arnhem Rijnhotel Picked for its riverside setting and views—great if you want to feel close to the Rhine and the bridge area.

Boutique Hotel The Church A characterful boutique option in the city center, good for travelers who prefer design and a more local feel.

Stayokay Arnhem A budget-friendly base with a greener setting, useful if you're combining Arnhem with nearby parks and outdoor time.

Is the John Frost Bridge Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you care about WWII history or want a meaningful, low-effort landmark that fits naturally into a city walk. The bridge is visually impressive, the river setting is beautiful, and the surrounding memorial context gives the visit emotional weight without requiring a long detour.

Honest Pivot: if you're not interested in history and you're short on time, the bridge can feel like “just a bridge” from up close, with traffic and wind. In that case, you'll likely enjoy Arnhem more by focusing on a museum visit, a café-lined neighborhood stroll, or a park viewpoint instead.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (2,221)

Bridge named for a British officer, rebuilt in 1948 & known for its role in the Battle of Arnhem.

Richard Lowe
a week ago
"Being of a certain age... the "bridge too far"... has a certain allure. Then I learn it isn't that one (rebuilt by the Germans when the Dutchdestroyed the original, in 1940). As that was destroyed by the RAF after the failure of Operation market garden. Do keep up! The surroundings are surprisingly open and airy, no closely spaced houses/shops. Life and architecture have moved on. Do visit the centre and its imposing Church (also not original). If you go to the museum (Sherman tank, on rubber tracks!) Allow plenty of time, it is very informative and you don't want to be last on the coach...."
A Brown
4 months ago
"Fantastic trip here to see a monument of legendary status! There is a great little visitors centre just along the bridge, with excellent informationabout the area and bridge. This is free, but donations are gladly accepted, so be good with the ol' tip jar! If you're staying anywhere local, this is definitely worth visiting. We didn't stop in the town but looked nice and typically Dutch...."
KM Lim
a month ago
"Take a walk from the central station to the bridge. One of the WWII battle was fought here."

For Different Travelers

The John Frost Bridge works well as a flexible stop: you can keep it quick for a scenic walk, or build it into a deeper WWII-focused itinerary with nearby exhibits and memorial sites.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the simple “big bridge over a big river” factor—boats, bikes, and the sense of scale make it engaging even without heavy history. Keep the visit short, choose safe viewing spots away from traffic, and turn it into a riverside walk with snack breaks.

If your family is ready for more context, the nearby exhibition can help explain the story in a more structured way than trying to interpret plaques outdoors. Consider framing it as a story of courage and remembrance rather than focusing on graphic details.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the bridge is best as part of a golden-hour or evening stroll along the Rhine, when the light is softer and the city feels calmer. Pair it with a riverside drink or dinner in central Arnhem for an easy, memorable outing.

It’s not a “romantic attraction” in the classic sense, but the setting is cinematic—especially if you like meaningful places with a strong sense of story.

Budget Travelers

This is an excellent budget stop: you can experience a major landmark and great views without paying for entry. It also connects naturally with walking routes through Arnhem, so you can build a full afternoon around free sights and inexpensive food options.

If you want to add depth without spending much, focus on a self-guided WWII walk using public memorial points and viewpoints, then choose one paid museum elsewhere in the city if your budget allows.

History Buffs

For history-focused travelers, the bridge is a must-see anchor point for understanding the Battle of Arnhem on the ground. Seeing distances, sightlines, and the river crossing in person adds clarity that maps and films can't fully convey.

To get the most from it, combine the bridge with nearby WWII interpretation and consider a guided walk if you want detailed tactical and personal-story context.

FAQs for Visiting John Frost Bridge

Getting There

Yes, it’s walkable, and the route is straightforward through central Arnhem toward the river. If you prefer, buses and taxis can shorten the trip.
The north bank (city side) is easiest for combining with cafés and other sights. The south bank can be quieter for views back toward Arnhem.
Yes, Arnhem is well connected by train, making the bridge an easy add-on to a day trip. Plan extra time if you want to include museums and memorial sites.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public bridge and you can walk it freely. There’s no entry gate or ticketing.
No, viewpoints are informal along sidewalks and nearby riverfront paths. Any paid experiences are typically separate tours or museums nearby.
Yes, Arnhem has WWII-themed walking tours that include the bridge area. Availability varies by date and operator.

Visiting Experience

Yes, there are pedestrian paths, but stay alert because it’s an active traffic route. Keep children close and avoid stepping into bike lanes.
Focus on the river views, the approaches to the bridge, and nearby memorial points that help explain the battle’s geography. The surrounding quayside is also part of the experience.
Yes, because the real setting adds a sense of scale and place that film can’t replicate. It’s especially rewarding if you’re interested in comparing story to geography.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Pair the bridge walk with nearby WWII interpretation and read a short overview of Operation Market Garden beforehand. A simple self-guided route along the river works well.
Yes, you can link it with central Arnhem memorial points and museums, then continue toward Oosterbeek if you have time. It’s a natural “spine” for a WWII-focused day.
Yes, it’s one of the most logical anchors for a walking route because it’s central and visually distinctive. It also connects well with riverside paths.

Photography

Rijnkade on the north bank is excellent for wide shots, especially near the bridge approach. The south bank can give you cleaner skyline compositions back toward the city.
Yes, the bridge lighting and river reflections can be very photogenic. Bring a steady hand or tripod-friendly setup and watch for wind.
Rules can be strict near cities and waterways, so check local regulations before flying. If in doubt, stick to ground-level viewpoints.

Accessibility & Facilities

Many riverside paths and sidewalks are accessible, but some nearby routes include stairs and uneven sections. Choose flatter quayside paths for the easiest experience.
Not on the bridge itself, but you’ll find restrooms in cafés, museums, and public venues in central Arnhem. Plan a quick stop before a longer walk.
Very little—this is an exposed riverside location. If it’s rainy or windy, plan to duck into nearby indoor attractions.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, central Arnhem and the riverfront area have plenty of options within a short walk. It’s easy to combine the visit with a coffee break.
Yes, the quayside and nearby green pockets can work well for a simple picnic. Be mindful of wind and keep the area tidy.
Yes, head back into central Arnhem for the widest choice of restaurants. The bridge visit fits nicely before an evening meal.

Safety & Timing

Occasionally, commemorations or events can affect access and traffic flow. If you’re visiting in September, allow flexibility.
It can be, especially on the bridge itself. Dress in layers and secure hats or loose items.
Early morning is typically calmest for walking and photos. Weekdays outside rush hour can also feel more relaxed.

Nearby Attractions to the John Frost Bridge

  • Airborne at the Bridge: A compact, free exhibition overlooking the bridge that adds powerful WWII context.
  • Eusebius Church (Eusebiuskerk): Arnhem’s landmark church with history, architecture, and city views.
  • Arnhem city center (Binnenstad): Shops, cafés, and walkable streets that make a good pairing with the riverfront.
  • Park Sonsbeek: A beloved city park for scenic walks, gardens, and a break from urban streets.
  • Airborne Museum Hartenstein (Oosterbeek): A deeper dive into the Battle of Arnhem, ideal for history-focused visitors.

The John Frost Bridge appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arnhem!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Nijmeegseweg, 6841 HG Arnhem, Netherlands
Arnhem: 1 km

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