Union Suspension Bridge
A graceful 19th-century suspension bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking England and Scotland with quiet elegance and scenic river views.
Spanning the River Tweed near Berwick-upon-Tweed, the Union Suspension Bridge is a graceful 19th-century ironwork crossing that links England and Scotland. Built in 1820, it’s one of the oldest suspension bridges in the UK still carrying road traffic, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding countryside. The bridge is a quiet, atmospheric spot for a short walk, especially at sunrise or sunset, and serves as a subtle reminder of the historic border between two nations.
A brief summary to Union Bridge
- Berwick-upon-Tweed, TD15 1XQ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer vehicles; the bridge is narrow and feels more atmospheric when it’s quiet.
- Wear sturdy shoes and be cautious when walking on the bridge; the surface can be uneven, and there’s no dedicated footpath separate from traffic.
- Combine your visit with a riverside walk along the Tweed; there are informal paths on both banks that offer lovely views of the bridge and the surrounding countryside.
- Check local conditions before visiting in winter; the bridge remains open, but the approach roads and paths can be slippery after rain or frost.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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By car
From Berwick-upon-Tweed, follow the B6461 west towards Coldstream; the Union Suspension Bridge is clearly signed and lies about 7 km from the town centre. There is limited informal parking on the approach roads, but no dedicated car park at the bridge itself.
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By public transport
Take a train to Berwick-upon-Tweed station, then a local bus or taxi to the B6461; from there, it’s a 20–30 minute walk along the road to the bridge. Services are infrequent, so check timetables in advance.
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On foot
From Berwick-upon-Tweed, follow riverside paths and country lanes west along the Tweed; the walk to the Union Suspension Bridge takes about 1.5–2 hours each way, depending on your starting point and pace.
Union Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Union Bridge
A Historic Crossing Over the Tweed
Opened in 1820, the Union Suspension Bridge is an elegant early example of iron suspension bridge engineering, designed to carry the main road between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Coldstream across the River Tweed. At the time, it was a significant feat, replacing older, less reliable crossings and improving travel between England and Scotland. The bridge’s slender iron chains and narrow deck give it a delicate, almost fragile appearance, yet it has carried traffic for over two centuries, a testament to its robust original construction. It stands as one of the oldest suspension bridges in the UK still in regular use for road vehicles, a quiet survivor from the dawn of the railway age.Architecture and Engineering Charm
The bridge’s design is simple yet striking: two stone towers anchor the main suspension chains, which support a narrow roadway suspended on vertical rods. The ironwork has a distinctive, slightly weathered character, with riveted plates and lattice details that speak of early 19th-century industrial craftsmanship. The deck is just wide enough for a single lane of traffic, flanked by low parapets that offer clear views down to the river. Pedestrians walk on the same surface as vehicles, creating an intimate, slightly exposed experience that contrasts with modern, wide bridges. The structure’s lightness and transparency make it feel more like a piece of sculpture than a utilitarian crossing, especially when seen from downstream or from the riverbanks.Setting and Natural Surrounds
Set in a gently rolling border landscape, the bridge crosses the Tweed in a relatively quiet stretch, away from the bustle of Berwick town centre. The river here is broad and slow-moving, flanked by grassy banks, willow trees and patches of woodland. On either side, farmland and low hills create a peaceful, pastoral backdrop, with the occasional glimpse of distant hills in the Scottish Borders. The area is popular with walkers, anglers and birdwatchers, and the bridge itself forms a natural focal point on riverside paths. In spring and summer, the banks are lush with wildflowers; in autumn, the trees turn golden, and in winter, the river can swell after heavy rain, adding drama to the crossing.Borderland Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Crossing the Union Suspension Bridge feels like stepping between two worlds. On one side lies Berwick-upon-Tweed, England’s northernmost town, with its medieval walls and Georgian architecture; on the other, the Scottish Borders unfold, with their own distinct history and landscape. The bridge is not a major tourist hub, but a quiet, atmospheric spot that rewards a slow, thoughtful visit. It’s ideal for a short walk, a few photographs, or simply pausing to watch the river flow beneath. There are no formal visitor facilities at the bridge itself, but nearby villages and Berwick offer cafes, shops and accommodation. The experience is best enjoyed in calm weather, when the ironwork creaks softly and the only sounds are the river, the wind and the occasional passing car or walker.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Broad Shiel
3.1 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Royal Border Bridge
6.3 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Berwick Bridge
6.4 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick Town Walls
6.6 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Royal Tweed Bridge
6.7 km
A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Coxon's Tower
6.7 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Town Hall
6.7 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Cumberland Bastion
6.8 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Lord's Mount
6.9 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Berwick Lighthouse
7.8 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Lamberton Skerrs
8.8 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.
Visit Berwickshire Coast
13.6 km
Explore the Berwickshire Coast: A stunning blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming coastal towns perfect for a memorable getaway.
Marjoribanks Monument
14.1 km
A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.
Scoutscroft Leisure Park | Verdant Leisure
15.3 km
Relax by the stunning Berwickshire coast with cozy self-catering lodges, pet-friendly amenities, and seaside adventures at Scoutscroft Leisure Park.
Berwickshire High School
15.8 km
Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Paxton House
1.0 km
Discover the grandeur of Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite art, gardens, and riverside charm near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Lazy Day Cottages
3.1 km
Luxury log cabins with private hot tubs and sauna, nestled in peaceful Scottish Borders countryside near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Norham Castle
4.4 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Norham Castle, a historic 12th-century fortress guarding the River Tweed and inspiring centuries of border history.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
6.5 km
Walk the most complete Elizabethan ramparts in England, where medieval castle ruins meet panoramic views of Berwick and the River Tweed.
Berwick Boat Trips
6.6 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed from the water on scenic boat trips blending wildlife, history, and stunning river and sea views.
Berwick Museum and Art Gallery
7.0 km
Discover Berwick’s rich history and art treasures within the atmospheric Berwick Barracks at this engaging museum and gallery.
Berwick-Upon-Tweed Barracks and Main Guard
7.0 km
Explore the historic 18th-century Berwick Barracks, a fortress of England’s border heritage with panoramic views and rich military exhibitions.
King's Own Scottish Borderers Regimental Museum
7.0 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the King's Own Scottish Borderers in Berwick's historic barracks museum.
England / Scotland Border
7.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the England/Scotland border in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a must-visit for every tourist.
Duddo Five Stones
7.3 km
Explore the ancient Duddo Five Stones, a mysterious Bronze Age stone circle set amidst Northumberland’s scenic border hills.
Red Cliffs in Berwick-upon-Tweed
7.6 km
Experience breathtaking red sandstone cliffs and stunning coastal views just north of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Twizel Castle
9.2 km
Explore Twizel Castle, a captivating medieval fortress transformed by Gothic revival, echoing centuries of border history in Northumberland.
Twizel Viaduct
10.1 km
Historic 19th-century six-arch railway viaduct near Cornhill-on-Tweed, blending Victorian engineering with scenic Northumberland countryside.
Etal Castle
11.8 km
Explore Etal Castle, a captivating 14th-century border fortress steeped in history and scenic Northumberland charm.
Manderston House
12.7 km
Explore Manderston House, an Edwardian masterpiece with the world’s only silver-plated staircase, set amid 56 acres of stunning Scottish Borders gardens.
Essential places to dine
The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen
2.0 km
A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill
4.8 km
A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.
The Castle Hotel & Restaurant
6.5 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.
Audela
6.6 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.
Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant
6.7 km
A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Limoncello
6.7 km
Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.
Ivy 43
6.7 km
Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Amore Restaurant
6.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.
Restaurant 1782
7.2 km
Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Allanton Inn
7.5 km
A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant
10.6 km
A charming blend of traditional Scottish hospitality, fine dining, and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Borders.
The Blue Bell Inn
13.0 km
A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.
The Heathers Restaurant
13.0 km
Fresh seafood and harbour views in a historic golf clubhouse overlooking Eyemouth's working waterfront.
Oblo
13.3 km
Stylish harbourfront bistro in Eyemouth serving fresh seasonal dishes, cocktails, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Ship Restaurant & Bar
13.3 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Eyemouth, serving fresh local seafood and hearty fare in a lively, dog-friendly harbour-side setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Seagull's Nest
6.6 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.
Bijoux
6.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Bijoux, a charming gift shop in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Loop Emporium
6.6 km
Discover unique vintage and upcycled fashion treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Loop Emporium.
Artisans at Serendipity
6.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by local artists in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Derrants
6.7 km
Discover unique local gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Derrants.
Unique Antiques
6.7 km
Discover quirky, unique antiques in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at this charming Hide Hill shop.
Granny's Keepsakes
6.8 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and heartfelt keepsakes in the charming, friendly boutique of Granny's Keepsakes in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store
6.8 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and local heritage within Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic Woolmarket district.
ScotlandShop
14.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans and bespoke tailoring in Duns’ premier showroom, celebrating heritage with over 500 clan plaids.
CJR Gifts & Designs
14.9 km
Handcrafted artisan treasures celebrating the creative spirit of the Scottish Borders.
Number 18 Shop
15.1 km
Explore Number 18 Shop in Duns for unique clothing, handcrafted candles, stylish handbags, and exquisite jewelry, perfect for souvenirs.
The National Trust Shop
21.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
The Good Gift Company
26.5 km
Discover unique, thoughtful gifts in the welcoming heart of Kelso at The Good Gift Company, your boutique destination for special keepsakes.
Doreen Shepherd Designs
26.5 km
Discover bespoke elegance and timeless Scottish craftsmanship at Doreen Shepherd Designs in Kelso’s charming Scottish Borders.
Kelso Antiques Centre
26.6 km
Discover vintage treasures and rich history at Kelso Antiques Centre, a charming hub for collectors and curious visitors in the heart of Kelso.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Radio Rooms
6.1 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Thatch
6.2 km
A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.
Leaping Salmon
6.5 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Barrels
6.6 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
The Curfew Micropub
6.6 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The First & Last Inn
10.1 km
Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.
The Craw Inn
12.6 km
Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.
The Contented Sole
13.4 km
A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.
BEST PUBLIC BAR
14.6 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.
The Lindisfarne Inn
14.9 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
The Vibe
26.8 km
A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.
Schooner Inn
34.4 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Bear & Bull
37.7 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming bar and café on Dunbar’s High Street, offering quality food, drinks, and a warm local atmosphere.
The Joiners Arms
39.6 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
Ancrum Cross Keys
40.3 km
A charming Scottish Borders pub offering warm hospitality, exceptional locally sourced food, and scenic riverside views in Ancrum village.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
6.6 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
BedRocks
6.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
Nothing
40.4 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Morven
43.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Warehouse Nightclub
46.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
46.5 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
The Border Club
55.9 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Base Nightclub
56.2 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
Square One
56.6 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
60.9 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
Borders Blues club
61.6 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Borders Blues Club, where the best of British blues music comes alive in Innerleithen.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
61.6 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
Union Club
62.0 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Cross Keys - Peebles
68.7 km
Historic inn and cozy hotel in Peebles town centre, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and a lively pub atmosphere.
The Central Bar
68.7 km
Experience the heart of Peebles at The Central Bar, where local charm and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
