Dean Bridge

Telford's last great bridge

Thomas Telford was in his seventies when Dean Bridge was built between 1829 and 1831, using stone from Craigleith quarry. Four main arches, each about 27 metres across, lift the road roughly 32 metres above the riverbed. Wider, slimmer outer arches carry the footpaths, a detail Telford himself singled out as the bridge's distinguishing feature. It has been Category A listed since 1965.

Stories in the stonework

The bridge was meant to be toll-free, but the contractor, John Gibb, briefly charged pedestrians a penny to cross before handing it over. In 1888 the parapets were raised to deter suicides. Today it still carries the busy A90 out of the city towards Queensferry, so crossing on foot is quick and noisy; the real spectacle is underneath.

How to see it

Drop down into Dean Village and follow the Water of Leith Walkway, which passes beneath the bridge on the south bank. From the path you can look straight up at the arches and the hollow spandrels that kept the structure light. Combine it with a stroll through the old mill buildings of Dean Village, then continue along the river towards Stockbridge, or head back up to the West End for food.

Highlights

• Designed by Thomas Telford, completed in 1831
• About 32 metres above the Water of Leith
• Four main arches with separate outer arches for the footpaths
• Category A listed since 1965

Good to know

• The best views are from the Water of Leith Walkway below, reached via Dean Village.
• The bridge carries the A90 Queensferry Road, so expect heavy traffic on the footpaths above.

Frequently asked questions