The 10 Most Beautiful Bridges in Scotland
Scotland’s many bridges are a sight to behold. From the ultra-modern to ones as old as the land they connect, admire the architectural and structural prowess evident within the most beautiful Scottish bridges and plan your next getaway adventure.
1. Forth Bridge
Bridge
Swilcan Bridge
It may be small but don’t let that detract from its celebrity status. Situated on the Old Course at St Andrews Links golf course, the Swilcan Bridge forms a shadow over the Swilcan Burn amidst the first and eighteenth fairways. To golfers, this wee Roman arch bridge is iconic and serves as a prime ‘Kodak moment’. Golfing champions and fans alike from far and near continuously make pilgrimages to this ancient bridge to pay their respects. At around 700 years old or more, the Swilcan Bridge was constructed for shepherds to guide livestock across the burn.
2. Brig O’Doon
Bridge, Church
Ancient and stewed with history, the Brig O’Doon is a medieval steep humped single arch bridge in Ayrshire just a stone’s throw from Alloway. Dating back to the early 15th century, this evocative structure is renowned for playing a role in the last verse of Tam o’ Shanter, a famous poem by Scottish Bard Robert Burns. After setting eyes on a most disturbing demonic scene — a haunted church riddled with witches, warlocks and the devil playing bagpipes — Tam flees on his horse Meg, only to discover a witch is swiftly on their tails. Tam outrides the witch by escaping across the trusty Brig o’Doon.
3. Clyde Arc
Bridge
A permanent rainbow over Glasgow’s River Clyde, the Clyde Arc sports a curvaceous design. The off-kilter angled crossing adds to the innovative nature of the structure and is the reason locals refer to it as the ‘Squinty Bridge’! This modern marvel lit up Glasgow in 2006 and was designed to last for up to 120 years.
4. Glenfinnan Viaduct
Bridge
Emerging out of the rolling West Highland countryside at the tip of Loch Shiel, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is perhaps one of the most photographed bridges in Scotland. This is partly due to its multiple appearances in the Harry Potter films, and also thanks to its 21 impressive arches. This beautiful bridge, which opened in 1901, welcomes trains on the renowned West Highland Line and sports striking views to Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument.
5. Sligachan Old Bridge
Bridge
6. Brig o’ Balgownie
Bridge
Gazing at the many reflections of the Brig o’ Balgownie as they dance across the water never fails to create memorable moments of self-reflection. Once referred to as the Bridge of Don, the Brig o’ Balgownie dates back all the way to the 13th century and guards the River Don in Old Aberdeen. The bridge, with its lone gothic arch, was crafted from granite and sandstone and completed in 1320. From vast armies seeking a swift crossing to a prevalent trade route, this historic bridge has seen it all.
7. Kylesku Bridge
Bridge
8. Clachan Bridge
Bridge
9. Tay Bridge
Bridge
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