Union Chain Bridge Circular

Crossing the historic Union Chain Bridge takes you onto a circular route in the English borders. The Union Chain Bridge was built in 1820 by Royal Naval Captain Sir Samuel Brown under the guidance of Scottish civil engineers, Robert Stevenson and John Rennie.

It is the oldest and longest wrought iron suspension bridge in Britain.

Start at the Chain Bridge. Cross the Chain Bridge into England. Turn left through a metal gate toward ‘Low House’ on a tarmac road.

Pass through a farm gate and follow the Tweed downstream on a grass track. Across the river, you can see the stone wall entrance to Paxton House.

Cross a stile and continue downstream. After ‘Start Fishery’, cross a second stile. Pass ‘Yardford Shiel’ cottage.

Continue along the riverbank toward ‘Low House’. Look for swans, herons, and ducks.

Cross the stile, veer right onto the tarmac road, turn right, and cross a cattle grid. Walk uphill past West Loanhead to a junction.

Turn right toward Horncliffe. After 1km, turn right for the Chain Bridge Honey Farm. After visiting, continue 300m to return to the bridge.