Neidpath Viaduct

Neidpath Viaduct is an eight-arch stone railway bridge across the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders. It was built in the 19th century to carry the Symington to Peebles railway line, designed by engineers Robert Murray and George Cunningham. The arches are skewed and semicircular, crossing the river at an angle with four piers standing in the water. The trackbed follows a gentle curve of 440 yards radius to meet Neidpath Tunnel near Neidpath Castle. After the line closed in 1954, the bridge became a footpath. The viaduct is recognised as one of Scotland’s finest skew-arch structures and is protected as a Category A listed building. Historic Environment Scotland placed it on the Buildings at Risk Register in 2011 because of stone decay, plant growth and warped iron balustrades. Despite these concerns, the bridge remains open for walkers. Its setting beside Neidpath Castle and the Tweed draws many ramblers. Visitors follow a broad path across the eight arches, with views down the river and up to the castle. The sandstone blocks and curved alignment give the crossing a graceful feel. Plant life clings to the piers and balustrades, adding texture to the stonework. The path leads on to quiet trails along the Tweed’s banks.