Kelso

About Kelso

As you gaze upon the fine five-arch bridge finished by Rennie in 1803, you would be forgiven for thinking it looks familiar. It is the first bridge with an elliptic arch and marked a new era in bridge building, serving as the model for Waterloo Bridge in London. But it is the predecessor of Rennie’s triumph that was gazed upon by Robert Burns in his Borders tour.
Following an evening out, he wrote on 9 May 1787 'Breakfast at Kelso; charming situation; fine bridge over the Tweed; enchanting views and prospects on both sides of the river, particularly the Scotch side.' Indeed it is reported Burns was so taken with the scene he uncovered his head and prayed to God.
Alas that bridge would be carried away in a storm ten years hence, making way for the one you see today.