Overtoun Bridge

Overtoun Bridge is a Category B listed road bridge in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland, spanning Overtoun Burn with three arches. The structure displays triangular buttresses, semi-circular pedestrian recesses, and domed caps at both ends built from rough-faced ashlar.

Landscape architect H.E. Milner designed the bridge in 1895 as part of a mile-long western driveway commissioned by chemical manufacturer John White. The project was meant to connect Overtoun House with the surrounding region and reflects the design approach of Victorian estate planning.

Local stories tell of dogs that suddenly break loose and leap over the parapet, drawing the attention of behavior researchers to the site. The unexpected incidents have prompted investigations into how animals perceive scent patterns at this location.

The bridge rises roughly 50 feet above the ravine floor and allows pedestrians and vehicles to access the western approach to Overtoun House. The design includes limited side recesses, so it is advisable to watch for possible encounters with cars when crossing.

Behavior researcher David Sands found that long-nosed dog breeds react especially strongly to small mammal scents that concentrate at certain points along the bridge. This insight explains why some animals suddenly feel the urge to leap over the parapet once they pick up those scent trails.