Exploring bridges across the UK is a fascinating activity. It goes well beyond an appreciation for great architecture. You’re also getting history lessons, seeing how local communities use them in fitness regimes, and of course, there’s the brilliant photo opportunities.

With so many unique architectural styles, it is tough to pinpoint just which ones are the UK’s most beautiful bridges. So many contenders!

But let’s give this a shot, starting with bridges in the south of England. My top picks feature a range of construction styles which span multiple centuries, and considers bridges that crosses both rivers and valleys (i.e. viaducts, I’ve got you!)

1. Ouse Valley Viaduct

Ouse Valley Viaduct is a red-bricked wonder in the Sussex countryside. For lovers of Victorian railway architecture, this operational rail bridge – also known as Balcombe Viaduct – is a must-see.

Passengers travelling through Hayward Heath on the London-Brighton train are gifted with spectacular views of the Ouse Valley below.

However, the best viewpoint of Ouse Valley Viaduct is at ground level (how often will you hear that?!)

Awe on first sight best describes the reaction when on a first date with Ouse Valley Viaduct. On the approach, the scale of the impressive 37-arched structure will hit you like…a ton of red bricks.

Unbelievably, the real jaw-dropping spectacle hasn’t entered the frame yet. It appears once you arrive underneath the bridge.

Here, the viaduct really starts to show-off.

Its angular body stretches, exposing its full length and every curve – to the absolute glee of Instagrammers.

The fusion effect of the interior columns is remarkable.

Beautiful shots come effortlessly.

Ouse Valley Viaduct is undeniably one of the most Instagrammable places in England. This one’s worth following the crowd for…

Visiting Ouse Valley Viaduct: Travel Tip

Combine a visit to Ouse Valley Viaduct with an Ardingly Reservoir Walk – it makes for an incredible day out in the British countryside. On the reservoir walk, you will also capture the hillside view of the viaduct.

If you are driving, park at Ardingly Reservoir (avoid parking on the side of the road adjacent to the viaduct – it is a nuisance for the local farmer and passing traffic).

You can also arrive to the nearby village of Balcombe by train from London Victoria.

2. Queen Elizabeth II Bridge

Queen Elizabeth II Bridge is a gorgeous cable-stayed bridge which ascends above the River Thames in Kent. Commonly referred to as “Dartford Bridge” or “Dartford Crossing” (which also includes two tunnels), it is one of the busiest bridge crossings in the UK, and one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in Europe. 

While many are familiar with the vistas across the River Thames in London, crossing the Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) bridge opens a window to Kentish Thames. The view is drastically different: vast expanses of marshland, farmland, and more industrial estates.

Most experience the bridge in their vehicles, but it is entirely possible to admire the majestic river crossing from below, compliments of the Thames path.

This grassy riverside is the best place to see the Dartford Crossing. Standing on the footpath, your senses will absorb the full expanse of the QE2 bridge, including a close-up of the massive concrete pillars that prop it up.

Visiting the QE2 Bridge: Travel Tip

To experience stunning views of the Queen Elizabeth II bridge at Dartford Crossing, as well as the surrounding north Kent countryside, I recommend a riverside walk or cycle along the Thames path from Dartford to Greenhithe.

If arriving by train from London, take the Rainham-bound Thameslink to either the Dartford or Greenhithe station and walk to the Thames Path.

3. South Darenth Viaduct

South Darenth Viaduct is a rail bridge in the Kent parish of Horton Kirby and South Darenth. It announces itself in a small village setting, and while it is one of the the smallest entrants in this list, its beauty is quite inspiring in its own right.

As motorists, cyclists and pedestrians amble along the quiet Horton Road, a 10-arched bridge appears. Its third arch provides decorative passage for the ongoing traffic. It adds graceful character to the South Darenth.

For train passengers travelling along the railway viaduct, theirs is an elevated view of the Darent Valley below. From the top of the viaduct, a patchwork of fields stretch on as far as the eyes can see, interrupted only by the slender line of River Darent snaking through the green floor. It is a contrast to the seaside views which await them at the end of this rail line on the Kent east coast.

Also Read: Viking Coastal Trail: Cycling the Isle of Thanet

Visiting South Darenth Viaduct: Travel Tip

The South Darenth Viaduct appears along the Darent Valley Path which is a stunning countryside walk in Kent. I recommend the walking route between nearby Farningham Road Station and Sevenoaks Station which best captures the natural beauty of the area.

If arriving by train, the closest station to the South Darenth Viaduct is Farningham Road on the Chatam main line which runs from London Victoria to Ramsgate / Dover Priory.

4. Greatham Bridge

Greatham Bridge is a charming stone bridge in the English countryside which serves as a wonderful example of medieval architecture in southern England.

It is the oldest bridge in West Sussex.

Ten stone arches span the short crossing across the River Arun, in addition to a newer 19th century cast iron section which touts a pretty lattice design.

While it lies in a serene countryside setting today, Greatham Bridge happens to be the site of a historical fracas.

At Greatham Bridge, beside this placid section of River Arun, a small battle occurred during the English Civil War. Artillery shells have been recovered at this location.

Visiting Greatham Bridge: Travel Tip

I recommend taking a scenic walk along the river and surrounding wetlands area, or plan a longer walk along the Wey South Path.

Fishing enthusiasts: opportunities here are available exclusively via Rother Angling Club membership.

Parking by the Greatham Bridge is very limited.

5. Hockley Railway Viaduct

Hockley Railway Viaduct is an old viaduct bridge in Hampshire which is now gleaming from major restoration work. The historical landmark is a surprising sight from the adjacent M3 – motorists must surely feel a dash of intrigue as they whiz past this beauty.

The Victorian structure features 33 arches, some of which have sadly been marred by underwhelming works of graffiti.

Hockley Railway Viaduct, also called the Shawford Viaduct, is best viewed from the green floor of the surrounding Itchen Valley.

The former railway bridge previously served the Didcot, Newbury and Southampton line. It is noted in history as being a critical transport resource during WWII, facilitating the passage of military supplies to the port of Southampton.

Closed since the 1960’s, Hockley Railway Viaduct is now fully renovated and well-surfaced, welcoming walkers and cyclists along its footpath and cycle way: Viaduct Way.

From the viewing platform (the re-purposed rail track), your senses will practically inhale the greens of the Itchen Valley. It’s a pretty lush start to a walk or bike ride.

Visiting Hockley Railway Viaduct: Travel Tip

Viaduct Way is a great discovery – a nicely maintained trail that leads to the historic town of Winchester.

The main highlights along the route includes:

St. Catherine’s Hill Nature Reserve: St. Catherine’s Hill is a wonderful place to enjoy wildlife and views over the Itchen Valley, and even the city of Winchester on a clear day. If you’re feeling energetic and ready to take on the abundance of hillside stairs, that is.

Itchen Navigation: part of Viaduct Way parallels the Itchen Navigation, a footpath that runs alongside the River Itchen.

Cyclists: Viaduct Way is also part of National Cycle Route 23 which runs from Reading to Sandown on the Isle of Wight.

6. Millenium Bridge

Millenium Bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges in London (and my personal favourite in the city!) It goes without saying that this list must make its way to London, where there certainly are several options to consider for most stunning bridge in southern England.

The pedestrian bridge both reflects and promotes the architectural revolution of 21st century London – in it’s own design and in the designs of the well-known landmarks visible from its footpath, including The Shard and The Walkie Talkie.

London Millennium Footbridge is a stage from which you can experience a dual celebration of modern day London and historical London.

From one end of Millenium Bridge, you gaze upon two cultural gems in the city: the Tate Modern museum and Shakespeare’s Globe theatre.

On the opposite end, pedestrians are privy to a magnificent view of historic St. Paul’s Cathedral – a viewpoint which is especially stunning at night.

The imagery of the cathedral from the south side of the bridge is one of the most scenic views of London at street-level. Tourists, bridal and fashion photographers, film crew all flock to Millenium Bridge for this iconic London photo. And why not? It’s certainly worth the hype.

Visiting Millenium Bridge: Travel Tip

An artist by the name of Ben Wilson can sometimes be observed hunched over on the floor of Millenium Bridge, painting none other than pieces of discarded chewing gum! I’ve passed him on weekdays between 5pm and 7pm as he creates his miniature street art. It’s always fun to have the good luck of stumbling upon the “The Chewing Gum Man” while his is busy at this creative recycling exercise.