The old packhorse bridge which crosses the River Tame at Perry Barr is said to be the oldest surviving structure in Birmingham. It replaced a mediaeval wooden bridge around the year 1500, and is often referred to as the 'zigzag' bridge due to its triangular embrazures which allowed refuge to foot passengers from passing horse-drawn vehicles. It is claimed that Charles I rode over the bridge in 1642 and spent a night at the Olde Boar's Head before inspecting his troops and watching the bombardment of Aston Hall. Hence the name of the nearby district of Kingstanding.