The Forth could rival San Francisco, Sydney and London by becoming a top destination for bridge tourism, according to VisitScotland.
The tourism organisation believes the opening of the new Queensferry Crossing, which stands alongside the Forth Road Bridge and world heritage site Forth Bridge, could see the area emulate the success of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tower Bridge.
These landmarks all regularly attract millions of visitors every year.
This week, Scotland enters the history books as the only place in the world to boast three bridges spanning three centuries in one location.
As the world’s longest three-tower cable stayed bridge, the Queensferry Crossing is a feat of modern engineering.
It will make it easier for local, national and international visitors to travel across the east of the country.
Tourism Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “The Queensferry Crossing is about to join its two neighbours in the ranks as one of the world’s most iconic bridges, a national must see for visitors to Scotland.
“The people of Scotland will take this new bridge to their hearts and we invite the world to join in celebrating its opening as a celebration of the magnificent feats of innovation, engineering and construction, but also the history and heritage of the three bridges and surrounding areas.
“By successfully attracting people to the area, we are working with other bodies to ensure that local communities, businesses and attractions are able to capitalise on this increased level of interest to their benefit.”
Scotland is home to a range of bridges, many of which were designed by Scots or built by Scottish construction companies.
VisitScotland is currently trying to find the nation’s favourite.
The Forth Bridge has emerged as an early title contender, closely followed by the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which played a starring role in the Harry Potter films.
VisitScotland chief executive Malcolm Roughead said: “Bridges, such as the Queensferry Crossing, are a lasting reminder of a nation’s engineering expertise and never fail to attract global interest.”
He added the new bridge marked Scotland’s place in history as the only destination in the world to boast such a remarkable trilogy.
“This is undoubtedly a golden opportunity for tourism and the chance for Scotland to become a global destination for bridge tourism.”
Scotland’s bridges
From their beauty or breathtaking engineering prowess, Scotland’s bridges each have their own story to tell. Some of Scotland’s most recognisable structures include:
The Forth Bridge, which enjoys the same status at the Taj Mahal and Great Wall of China as an UNESCO world heritage site.
Glenfinnan Viaduct, which stars in the Harry Potter film series as it carries the Hogwarts Express to the magical school.
Brig o’Doon, famed for its appearance in Robert Burns’ epic Tam O’Shanter.
Clyde Arc, or otherwise known as the Squinty Bridge because of its twisted arch.
Clachan Bridge, which is better known by the much grander title, Bridge over the Atlantic.
Carrbridge Packhorse Bridge which is celebrating its 300th anniversary this year.
The Kylesku Bridge, a continuous concrete curse which crosses Loch a’Chairn Bhain.
Tay Road Bridge, connecting Fife with Dundee.
Leaderfoot Viaduct which carried the Berwickshire railway over the Tweed.
Swilcan Bridge, an iconic part of golfing history at the Old Course in St Andrews.
To cast a vote for visit https://community.visitscotland.com/discussion/1135/your-favourite-scottish-bridges
