In its Conservation Area document published 2009 Harrogate Borough Council says "Hampsthwaite Bridge offers an imposing entrance to the village from the north, offering spectacular views across the River Nidd and up the side of this scenic valley. The bridge itself is of stone and has three segmental arches . . . . .in coarsed squared gritstone . . . . .
Initially constructed in 1598 and rebuilt in 1640 with nineteenth century alterations to the parapet. The triangular cutwaters are chamfered at the top and closely set corbals support the overhanging parapet. The southern arch has been widened on the west side to allow a change in the road alignment."