Where are the world’s most beautiful railway bridges? Engineering marvels become big tourist hits

We’ve got a serious weakness for spectacular railway bridges. Nothing beats rumbling across valleys and rivers while soaking up views of the gorgeous landscapes unfolding below. 

And they’re no longer simply feats of engineering – they’re landmarks that put destinations on the map and visual reminders of the evolution of civil engineering. 

This year, one of the most striking in Europe, Scotland’s Forth Bridge, is marking 10 years since it was granted UNESCO World Heritage status – one of just a few railway bridges to receive the accolade. What’s more, this month it celebrates its 135th anniversary.

This iconic cantilever railway bridge located across the Firth of Forth, is such a part of Scotland’s pride and cultural heritage that you’ll find it illustrated on some Scottish banknotes. 

Just like railways themselves, bridges don’t look the same as they did a century ago. 

“Railway bridges have evolved significantly over the past 100 years,” says Professor Luke Prendergast, an expert in civil engineering (and bridges specifically) at the University of Nottingham. “In the past, masonry arch-type bridges were common,” he adds. 

“These heavy stone structures looked beautiful but eventually gave way to steel bridges with truss systems.” 

But don’t make the mistake of assuming metal bridges can’t be works of art, too.

“Steel allowed longer spans to be created,” points out Professor Prendergast. 

“The newest bridges tend to be made from reinforced concrete and other composite materials, but all of these structures can be aesthetically pleasing, and it’s a matter of personal opinion when it comes to whether the original masonry style is easier on the eye!”

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