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Forth Railway and Road Bridges The two great bridges, about a mile and half in length, cross the Firth of Forth at its narrowest point and are both significant achievements in their own right, particularly the Forth Railway Bridge, the world’s first major steel bridge. With its gigantic girder spans it ranks as one of the great feats of modern civilization. The Railway Bridge's construction began in 1883 and was formally completed on 4 March 1890 when Edward Prince of Wales tapped into place a ‘golden’ rivet. It's a cantilevered design and a supreme achievement of Victorian engineering. And it's true - it is painted continuously - taking over 3 years to cover the 135 acres and almost 50,000 tons of steel. The Road Bridge, a suspension bridge, beautifully compliments the Rail Bridge and it was the Road Bridge which was the final nail in the coffin of the 900 year old ferry below at Queensferry. A regular ferry operated as early as the 12th century using natural rock landings on the banks of the Firth. The Edinburgh - Aberdeen cycle route crosses the Road Bridge by cycle lane, with fantastic views of the older Rail Bridge. They are both often enshrouded in mist which lends a very eerie feeling, and the road bridge faintly rocks your bike's panniers on a breezy day. In the Visitor Centre a model of the Firth of Forth estuary in the area of the bridges is on display, as is information on the people who were involved in the building of the bridge. The Visitor Centre provides an excellent insight and a video also provides information on the two bridges. The Forth Bridges
Visitor Centre Information and photograph The Forth Bridges Visitor Centre Trust |
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