Victoria Bridge, Aberlour

The Victoria Bridge is a suspension footbridge west of Aberlour in Moray, Scotland. It spans the River Spey with a narrow lattice truss walkway held by two-inch wire cables. The bridge’s iron pylons taper upwards and end in ball and spike finials. Its span measures 87 metres between the supporting towers. Built in 1902, it replaced a ferry that had carried passengers across the fast-flowing Spey. The bridge owes its existence to local philanthropist James Fleming, a banker and provost who left £500 in his will for a footbridge. After years of difficulty securing land from the Laird of Elchies, permission was finally granted. Fleming’s widow provided the remaining funds, and the bridge cost about £1,000 to build. It was sometimes called The Penny Bridge because a toll of one penny was charged to cross. Visitors walk across the iron lattice deck with views of the Spey below. The bridge connects the village of Charlestown with the parish of Knockando. Its Category A listing recognises its historical importance and engineering design. The structure remains a safe and functional crossing over the river.