Hermitage Bridge, Stone footbridge at The Hermitage, Birnam, Scotland
Hermitage Bridge is a stone arched footbridge that crosses the River Braan in Birnam, distinguished by a free-standing doorway on its southern side. A small opening at the northern end provides access to a hidden grotto below, where the river waters flow in close proximity to the rock.
The Third Duke of Atholl commissioned this bridge in 1774 to access lands he leased from Sir John Stewart of Murthly in the area. Later repairs added iron ties fixed into the structure to strengthen and preserve it.
The bridge forms part of The Hermitage pleasure grounds, established in the 1750s by John Murray of Strowan for public recreational purposes.
The bridge is accessed via walking paths through the Hermitage grounds, which are open year-round. Wear sturdy footwear as the paths around this area can be slippery or muddy depending on recent weather.
The bridge contains a hollow chamber beneath Ossian's Hall that visitors can enter to view the river landscape from an unusual perspective. This hidden space was originally designed as an artistic creation to enhance the sense of intimacy with nature and the dramatic setting.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
