Kelvinbridge

Kelvinbridge is a cast iron structure spanning the River Kelvin with two main sections of about 91 feet each, featuring Gothic tracery and decorated spandrels. The construction combines decorative iron elements with heavy arches and steel girders to carry both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

Bell & Miller designed this structure in 1891 to replace an earlier stone bridge from 1840 that could no longer handle growing traffic demands. The project was needed to support increased tram operations on the route.

The bridge displays three coats of arms on its fascias, representing Glasgow, Lanarkshire, and Hillhead, showing the territorial divisions of that era. These symbols tell the story of how the city was divided at the time the structure was built.

The structure carries the A82 Great Western Road over the River Kelvin, connecting different parts of Glasgow with lanes for vehicles and paths for pedestrians. Visitors should be aware that this is an active traffic route with regular vehicle movement.

Walter Macfarlane & Co supplied the decorative iron elements while Sir William Arrol & Co produced the heavy iron arches and steel girders. This partnership between specialized manufacturers shows how complex creating such a structure was in the late 1800s.

Location: Glasgow City

Location: Glasgow

Made from material: cast iron

GPS coordinates: 55.87480,-4.27977

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:49