Cambus o’May Suspension Bridge

Cambus o’May Suspension Bridge is a historic, white-painted footbridge over the River Dee east of Ballater. The short approach from the nearby parking area brings you to its light latticework and long suspension span. It makes a good pause if you’re passing on the A93, and it can also be part of a longer walk along the river.

The bridge stretches about 50 metres across the Dee on a narrow plank deck. From the middle, look both upstream and downstream; from the approach, step back far enough to take in the full white span against the river and wooded banks. When the water is still, the bridge can reflect in the Dee, which makes a better picture than filling the frame with ironwork alone.

Built in 1905, the bridge was presented to the public by Alexander Gordon of Southwood, Hildenborough, Kent. Its entrance plaques preserve the dedication and name James Abernethy & Co., while the historic record credits Louis Harper & Co. with the design. The bridge replaced an earlier ferry crossing and is now a Category B listed structure.

A surfaced parking area sits near the former Cambus o’May railway station, a short walk from the bridge. The 12-kilometre Cambus o’May circular is a separate, moderate walk that includes the bridge and part of the Deeside Way. At the crossing, turnstiles at both ends and steps on the south bank make access difficult for wheelchair users, prams and people pushing bicycles.