Scott Russell Aqueduct

The Scott Russell Aqueduct is a bridge structure west of Edinburgh that carries the Union Canal across the A720 bypass. It uses five arched spans supported by three piers to allow boats to pass underneath while roads traffic flows safely below.

The aqueduct was built in 1995 and named after Scottish engineer John Scott Russell. The naming honors his discovery of solitary waves on the Union Canal in 1834, a significant observation in fluid dynamics.

The aqueduct forms part of the Union Canal system, connecting waterways that shaped the development of transportation in central Scotland.

The structure is visible and accessible from the Union Canal pathway, with walking and cycling routes running along the water. Visit during daylight to clearly see the engineering and how boats navigate beneath the passing traffic.

The aqueduct measures 12.8 feet in width and crosses the bypass at a specific angle calculated for optimal boat passage and structural stability.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Inception: 1987

GPS coordinates: 55.92180,-3.30700

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:43