Bridges have always been more than just functional structures; they are feats of engineering and architecture, connecting landscapes, cities, and even regions. In the UK, with its vast rivers, rolling valleys, and expansive coastlines, bridges are vital in keeping us all connected. From historical landmarks to modern marvels, here’s a look at the 10 longest bridges in the UK:

1. Bromford Viaduct

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Location: River Tame

Length: 5,600 meters (18,373 feet)

Year Completed: 1972

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The Bromford Viaduct, located in Birmingham, is the longest viaduct in the UK. It carries the M6 motorway over the Tame Valley, providing a key route for traffic through the Midlands. Opened in 1972, this concrete viaduct stretches over 5,000 metres and plays a vital role in the region’s infrastructure.

2. Second Severn Crossing

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Location: River Severn

Length: 5,128 metres (16,824 feet)

Year Completed: 1996

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The Second Severn Crossing, also known as the Prince of Wales Bridge, carries the M4 motorway across the Severn Estuary between England and Wales. Opened in 1996, this cable-stayed bridge is a vital link between the two nations, facilitating thousands of journeys every day. It’s design includes wind barriers to reduce the impact of strong winds from the Severn Estuary​.

3. Tay Rail Bridge

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Location: Firth of Tay

Length: 3,264 meters (10,709 feet)

Year Completed: 1887

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Stretching across the Firth of Tay, the Tay Rail Bridge is one of Scotland’s longest and most historic railway bridges. The current structure, completed in 1887 after the tragic collapse of the original bridge in 1879, is a strong engineering achievement. Today, it serves as a crucial link on Scotland’s rail network, connecting Dundee to the southern regions.

4. Queen Elizabeth II Bridge

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Location: River Thames

Length: 2,872 meters (9,423 feet)

Year Completed: 1991

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Part of the Dartford Crossing, the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the River Thames, connecting Dartford in Kent with Thurrock in Essex. This crucial transport link sees heavy traffic daily, with its impressive span standing as a testament to modern bridge construction.

5. Queensferry Crossing

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Location: Firth of Forth

Length: 2,700 meters (8,858 feet)

Year Completed: 2017

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The Queensferry Crossing is a modern engineering marvel that spans the Firth of Forth in Scotland. Opened in 2017, this three-tower cable-stayed bridge is the longest of its kind in the UK, providing a critical connection between Edinburgh and Fife.

6. Forth Road Bridge

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Location: Firth of Forth

Length: 2,512 meters (8,241 feet)

Year Completed: 1964

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Spanning the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh, the Forth Road Bridge is a suspension bridge that was once the longest in Europe. Opened in 1964, it played a key role in connecting Edinburgh with Fife and the north of Scotland. Although now primarily used for public transport, cyclists, and pedestrians, it remains an iconic structure in the Scottish landscape.

7. Forth Bridge

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Location: Firth of Forth

Length: 2,467 (8,094 feet)

Year Completed: 1890

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The Forth Bridge is a railway bridge across the Firth of Forth in the east of Scotland, 9 miles west of central Edinburgh. It was voted as Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder in 2016 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sometimes referred to as the Forth Rail Bridge, to distinguish it from the adjacent Forth Road Bridge, although it is not the official name.

8. Tay Road Bridge

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Location: Firth of Tay

Length: 2,250 meters (7381 feet)

Year Completed: 1966

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The Tay Road Bridge carries the A92 road across the Firth of Tay from Newport-on-Tay in Fife to Dundee in Scotland and is situated downstream of the larger Tay Rail Bridge. Opened in 1966 it replaced the old Tay ferry and is one of the longest road bridges in Europe.

9. Mersey Gateway Bridge

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Location: River Mersey

Length: 2,268 meters (7,439 feet)

Year Completed: 2017

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The Mersey Gateway Bridge is a major crossing over the River Mersey, linking Widnes and Runcorn. Opened in October 2017, this cable-stayed bridge is one of the longest in the UK, easing congestion and providing a modern crossing with impressive length and design.

10. Humber Bridge

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Location: Humber

Length: 2,220 meters (7,283 feet)

Year Completed: 1981

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Located near Kingston upon Hull, the Humber Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge that spans the Humber Estuary. Opened in 1981, it held the title of the longest single-span suspension bridge in the world for 16 years. Today, it continues to be a symbol of British engineering expertise.

These bridges are not just functional, they are emblematic of the UK’s innovation in engineering, playing critical roles in transport and infrastructure. Each bridge tells a story of the country’s ongoing efforts to connect its people, from towering suspension bridges to essential motorway crossings.

If you liked this article on the 10 longest bridges in the UK, check out our “Top 20 Tallest Buildings in the UK” web blog.