The Orwell Bridge in Ipswich opened in 1982. The main span is 190 metres, which at the time of its construction was the longest pre-stressed concrete span in use. Its total length of 1,287 meters crosses the estuary of the beautiful River Orwell; Eric Blair whose pen name was George Orwell took his name from the river . In 1995 Ipswich’s newest park, the Orwell Country Park, opened to the public and provides good views of the bridge. Visitors to the park can explore 250 acres of ancient woodland, heath & grassland which lie within the Suffolk Coasts & Heath Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are waymarked trails, picnic area and an orienteering course.