Union Bridge

Union Bridge is a 137-meter suspension bridge made of wrought iron, crossing the River Tweed with sandstone piers anchoring each riverbank. The span rises 18.3 meters above the water and links Horncliffe in England to the Scottish side.

Captain Samuel Brown completed this structure in 1820, creating Europe's first vehicular suspension bridge and holding the world's longest span record until 1826. The achievement marked a turning point in how engineers approached bridge design across major rivers.

The bridge carries the Latin motto 'Vis Unita Fortior' on its tower crests, marking it as a physical symbol of the border crossing between England and Scotland. Locals and travelers alike see it as a connection that joins two nations rather than divides them.

Following extensive restoration work from 2020 to 2023, the bridge is open to vehicles and pedestrians crossing between both communities. The walkway accommodates foot traffic comfortably alongside regular vehicular use.

One side of the structure breaks from conventional design by anchoring directly into the natural rocky cliff rather than using a traditional tower support. This solution reflected the practical conditions and constraints encountered during the original construction.

Location: Horncliffe

Location: Hutton

Location: Scottish Borders

Inception: 1820

Official opening: July 16, 1820

Height: 18.3 m

Length: 137 m

Width: 5.5 m

Made from material: steel

Website: http://unionbridgefriends.com

GPS coordinates: 55.75249,-2.10721

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:48