The pier thicknesses, measuring , and , increase slightly towards the middle of the river, while the distances between the piers increase from to . The fifth and ultimate pier, which carries the distinctive nickname "Bishop's table", takes an advanced position in the riverbed and possesses by far the largest cross-section (). It may be of medieval origin and could have served as a base for a watchtower, replacing two ancient arches. All five piers are strengthened on the upstream face by pointed cutwaters.