Dulsie Bridge
An 18th-century military bridge spanning a Highland gorge, where history and wild nature meet above the River Findhorn near Nairn.
Spanning a narrow gorge over the River Findhorn near Nairn, Dulsie Bridge is an 18th-century stone arch bridge built in 1755 as part of a military road network. Standing some 18 meters above the riverbed, this historic crossing offers dramatic views of the wild river and surrounding Highland scenery. A small parking area and short trail provide easy access to safe viewpoints, making it a peaceful stop for history lovers and nature enthusiasts exploring the Scottish Highlands.
A brief summary to Dulsie Bridge
- Old Military Rd, Nairn, IV12 5UR, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid any potential crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Wear sturdy footwear; the path near the bridge can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring a picnic; there are picnic tables at the parking area, making it a pleasant spot for a short break in the Highlands.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
From Nairn, follow the A96 west then turn onto the Old Military Road; the drive takes about 20–25 minutes. There is a small parking area right at the bridge, but the space is limited and can fill up on busy days.
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Public Transport + Walk
Take a bus from Nairn to nearby villages such as Cawdor or Nairn itself, then arrange a local taxi or walk along quiet country roads; the final approach on foot takes about 30–40 minutes and is suitable for confident walkers on well-maintained paths.
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Cycling
Cyclists can reach Dulsie Bridge via the Old Military Road from Nairn; the ride takes roughly 45–60 minutes, with some rolling terrain and narrow sections, so a road or hybrid bike is recommended.
Dulsie Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dulsie Bridge
A Highland Military Crossing
Dulsie Bridge is a striking 18th-century stone arch bridge that carries an old military road across the River Findhorn, just south of Nairn in the Scottish Highlands. Built in 1755 by Major William Caulfield and men from Lord Robert Manner’s Regiment, it was part of a wider network of military roads constructed to improve government control and troop movement through the Highlands after the Jacobite uprisings. The bridge was built from Ardclach granite at a cost of around £150, a significant sum at the time, and its elegant single arch spans a narrow, rocky gorge with the river rushing far below.Engineering Against the Odds
The bridge’s design is both functional and impressive, rising about 18 meters above the riverbed. Its keystone sits high above the steep-sided gorge, a testament to the skill and daring of 18th-century stonemasons who worked at such heights with rudimentary tools. The structure was part of a strategic route linking key military locations, and its survival speaks to the quality of its construction. In an era when Highland roads were often rough tracks, Dulsie Bridge represented a major engineering achievement, allowing reliable passage over a challenging natural obstacle.Surviving the Great Flood
One of the most remarkable chapters in the bridge’s history is its survival of the infamous Muckle Spate of 1829, a catastrophic flood that swept away many surrounding farmhouses, mills, and other bridges along the Findhorn. The floodwaters rose to the top of the smaller arch and came within just three feet of the main keystone, yet the bridge held firm. This event remains the most devastating flood recorded in the area, and Dulsie Bridge’s endurance through it has become a local legend, underscoring its resilience and importance in the landscape.A Landscape of History and Nature
The bridge is set in a wild, picturesque stretch of the River Findhorn, where the water tumbles through rocky gorges and cascades below the arch. The surrounding area is rich in Highland history, with connections to figures like Robert Burns, who is believed to have stayed at a nearby farmhouse during his Highland tour in 1787. The combination of dramatic natural scenery and tangible military history makes Dulsie Bridge more than just a crossing; it is a place where the stories of soldiers, engineers, and the power of nature converge.Visiting the Bridge Today
Today, Dulsie Bridge is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination that rewards those who seek out its charm. A small parking area at the top of the bridge provides convenient access, and a short, well-maintained trail leads to safe viewpoints where visitors can admire the arch, the river, and the gorge. The site is ideal for a brief stop during a Highland drive, offering opportunities for photography, quiet reflection, and a sense of stepping back into 18th-century Scotland. There are no formal facilities at the bridge itself, but the immediate surroundings are well-suited for a picnic or a short walk along the old military road.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Cawdor Castle and Gardens
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Logie Steading
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Uncle Bob's Bar
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Nairn Tandoori
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Lorenzo
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Ozzy's Fine Dining Restaurant
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Thai Cottage
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The Royal Bengal
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Salt & vinegar
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Aurora Hotel & Italian Restaurant
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Cafe Nairn
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Generous Highland breakfasts and exceptional value on Nairn's High Street.
The Leerie
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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MacMuddles Shop
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Auldearn Antiques
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Home Bargains
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KLAS Clothing
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The Highland Weigh
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
