Scammonden Bridge - Image 1
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Scammonden Bridge

4.4
·128 reviews·Stainland, United Kingdom

An iconic M62 bridge offering breathtaking Yorkshire views, a marvel of engineering, and a popular spot for photographers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise/Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow
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Scammonden Bridge - Image 1

Scammonden Bridge

Best Time

Sunrise/Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic M62 bridge offering breathtaking Yorkshire views, a marvel of engineering, and a popular spot for photographers.

4.4
(128 reviews)

"The views from Scammonden Bridge are amazing, but be prepared for the wind!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Fear of Heights? Be Prepared

The bridge has open sides with only railings. It can feel unsafe when windy. :warning:

Drone Photography Paradise

Ideal for aerial shots of the bridge and reservoir. Check local regulations first! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Scammonden Bridge

The Iconic Scammonden Bridge

Spanning the M62 Motorway

An architectural marvel offering panoramic views of the surrounding Yorkshire landscape and the busy M62.

Scammonden Reservoir Views

Scammonden Reservoir Views

Adjacent to the bridge

Stunning waterscapes perfect for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

M62 Motorway Perspective

M62 Motorway Perspective

From the bridge

Witness the constant flow of traffic on one of the UK's highest motorways.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Heights (and Wind!)

Scammonden Bridge offers breathtaking views but can be very windy. If you have a fear of heights, the open sides and railings might feel precarious. Consider visiting on a calmer day for a more comfortable experience.

Drone Photography Hotspot

This iconic bridge is a dream for drone enthusiasts, offering unique aerial perspectives of the M62 motorway and Scammonden Reservoir. Remember to check local drone regulations before flying.

Best Times

When
Sunrise/Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Calm, clear days
Why
Best for views & comfort
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Dramatic atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#CapCut #fyp#fyphappyvalley #policeofficer #panicbuton
@dewsbury_westyorkshie1
125.3K likes • 1.7M views

Fear of Heights? Be Prepared

The bridge has open sides with only railings. It can feel unsafe when windy. :warning:

Drone Photography Paradise

Ideal for aerial shots of the bridge and reservoir. Check local regulations first! :camerawithflash:

Wished I'd had my tall selfie stick on to give more perspective. Scammonden bridge over M62 . #rider #ride #motorcycle #bike #biker #motorbike #scammondenbridge #highestbridge #bikergirl #bikerchick #honda
wildsoul.biker
20 likes • 1.6K views
Beautiful Scammonden Bridge on M62.
muhammadsaadzafar1.0
4 likes • 187 views

Park at the Sailing Club

A large car park is available near the sailing club on the reservoir's east side. :car:

Dress for the Wind

It can be surprisingly cold and windy, even on warmer days. Layers are recommended. :cloud:

The indomitable Scammonden Bridge taken by drone at Sunrise. Scammonden Bridge, also known locally as the Brown Cow Bridge (after the nearby Brown Cow Inn, now closed), spans the Deanhead cutting carrying the B6114 (the former A6025) Elland to Buckstones road over the M62 motorway in Kirklees, West Yorkshire, England. The bridge and Scammonden Reservoir to the west are named after Scammonden, the ...
epic_yorkshire
15 likes • 186 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Fear of Heights? Be Prepared

The bridge has open sides with only railings. It can feel unsafe when windy. :warning:

Drone Photography Paradise

Ideal for aerial shots of the bridge and reservoir. Check local regulations first! :camerawithflash:

Park at the Sailing Club

A large car park is available near the sailing club on the reservoir's east side. :car:

Dress for the Wind

It can be surprisingly cold and windy, even on warmer days. Layers are recommended. :cloud:

Historical Significance

Consider the immense effort and lives lost during its construction. :construction:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(128 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the dramatic views from Scammonden Bridge, marveling at its engineering and the expansive landscape. However, many caution those with a fear of heights due to the bridge's open sides and the strong winds that are common at this elevated location. The area is also a hit with drone photographers seeking unique aerial perspectives.

"Amazing views from this bridge. Been under the bridge several times and often saw the odd pwrson walking accross it.Today we found the time to find the road that crosses it.Not for those afraid of heights though. Footpath across the bridge has open sides with only a railing along the edges. Was very very windy when walking across made it feel unsafe"

shauns auto repairs

"Been wanting to stop by at this location for ages, having driven this road and passed under this bridge countless times in the last 30 years. Managed to get a few hours here with my drone shooting some footage over the reservoir. Quite a remote area but good for long walks, large car park over above the sailing club on the east side of the reservoir."

York Red

"Had a motor bike shoot near by in the bits you can park unfortunately couldn’t get the bridge in as that bit was blocked off. Was gutted but was nice a nice view and loved the area"

Spencer Moore

What People Like

Spectacular views
Impressive engineering
Great for drone photography

What People Dislike

Very windy
Fear of heights
Limited amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Scammonden Bridge is located over the M62 motorway in West Yorkshire. You can access it via the B6114 road. There's a car park available near the Scammonden Sailing Club on the east side of the reservoir, offering good access to the bridge. Reddit

Yes, a large car park is situated above the sailing club on the east side of Scammonden Reservoir, providing convenient access to the bridge and surrounding walking areas. Reddit

Yes, there is a footpath that allows you to walk across Scammonden Bridge. However, be aware that it has open sides with only a railing, and it can be very windy. Reddit

Public transport options to Scammonden Bridge are limited. It's best accessed by car. Check local bus routes for services to nearby villages like Rishworth or Barkisland, but expect a significant walk. :bus:

The nearest towns to Scammonden Bridge include Huddersfield, Halifax, and Rochdale. These towns offer more extensive amenities and transport links. :cityscape:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to visit or walk across Scammonden Bridge. It is a public thoroughfare and a scenic viewpoint. :free:

Scammonden Bridge is accessible 24/7 as it is part of the public road network. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better views. :clock3:

There are no entry fees for the general area around Scammonden Bridge or the reservoir. Parking at the sailing club car park is typically free, but it's always good to check for any local notices. :moneywithwings:

While you can technically visit at night, it's not recommended due to safety concerns. The bridge has open sides, and visibility can be poor. Drone photography at night is also restricted. :nightwithstars:

The main restriction is for those with a fear of heights due to the open nature of the bridge. New, higher fences have been installed for safety reasons. Reddit :lock:

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The bridge itself, the M62 motorway traffic below, and the expansive views of Scammonden Reservoir are prime photo spots. Drone photography offers unique perspectives.,Instagram,Instagram Instagram

Absolutely! Scammonden Bridge is a popular spot for drone photographers, offering dramatic aerial shots of the motorway and reservoir. Ensure you comply with all drone regulations.,Instagram Instagram

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, creating beautiful golden hour hues over the landscape and reservoir.,Instagram Instagram

The footpath across the bridge provides excellent vantage points. For wider shots including the reservoir, the area around the sailing club car park is ideal. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the bridge and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the M62 traffic. A drone is highly recommended for unique aerial shots. :camera:

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The main activities include walking across the bridge, enjoying the panoramic views, and taking photographs. It's also a starting point for walks around Scammonden Reservoir. Reddit

It is not ideal for those with a fear of heights. The bridge has open sides with only a railing, and the height can be intimidating, especially on windy days.,Reddit Reddit

Yes, the area around Scammonden Reservoir offers opportunities for long walks. The paths provide scenic views of the water and the surrounding countryside. Reddit

Being at a high elevation, Scammonden Bridge can be very windy and exposed. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for wind, rain, or sunshine.,Instagram Instagram

While the bridge itself is structurally sound, the open sides and potential for strong winds mean visitors should exercise caution, especially those with a fear of heights. New safety fences have been installed.,Reddit Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Scammonden Bridge offers a unique experience for families, but it's important to be mindful of the height and wind. The open sides of the bridge might be unsettling for very young children or those with a fear of heights. Consider keeping a close eye on children and holding their hands firmly. Reddit

For a more relaxed experience, explore the areas around Scammonden Reservoir. The paths offer space for children to move around, and the views of the bridge from a distance can still be impressive. The car park near the sailing club is a good base for family outings. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This is a prime location for photographers, especially those with drones. The juxtaposition of the M62 motorway with the natural landscape and the imposing bridge structure provides endless creative possibilities.,Instagram Instagram

Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the scale, while telephoto lenses can isolate details of the traffic. Don't forget to explore the reservoir area for alternative compositions. Remember to check drone regulations before flying. Instagram

🏍️ Motorcyclists and Road Trippers

Scammonden Bridge is a popular stop for motorcyclists and road trippers exploring the M62. The dramatic scenery and the iconic bridge make for a memorable photo opportunity.,Instagram Instagram

While you can't always park directly on the bridge, there are often designated areas nearby where you can safely stop to take in the views and capture some shots. The drive itself over the M62 through this section is also quite scenic. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel of Scammonden Bridge

Scammonden Bridge is a significant piece of civil engineering, constructed in the late 1960s as part of the M62 motorway project. It's one of the highest bridges in the UK, spanning the Deanhead cutting. The construction involved immense effort from workers in challenging conditions, and sadly, lives were lost during its building. Reddit

The bridge carries the B6114 road over the M62, creating a unique intersection of transport infrastructure. Its distinctive design and elevated position make it a landmark in West Yorkshire. The sheer scale of the project is a testament to the engineering capabilities of its time. Instagram

Visitors often reflect on the history and the human stories behind this impressive structure. It's not just a bridge; it's a monument to industrial ambition and the dedication of those who built it. Reddit

Experiencing the Views and the Wind

The primary draw for many visitors to Scammonden Bridge is the spectacular panoramic view it offers. From its vantage point, you can see the vast expanse of the M62 motorway below, with traffic constantly flowing. The surrounding Yorkshire landscape provides a beautiful backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is at its most dramatic.,Instagram Instagram

However, it's crucial to be prepared for the wind. Due to its high elevation and exposed location, Scammonden Bridge is often very windy. This can make walking across the bridge feel precarious for those with a fear of heights, as the footpath has open sides with only a railing. Reddit Many visitors mention clinging to the railing or to a companion for reassurance. Reddit

Despite the potential for wind, many find the experience exhilarating. The feeling of being so high up, with the wind whipping around you, adds to the adventure. It's a place that truly makes you appreciate the power of nature and the scale of human construction. Instagram

Drone Photography and Reservoir Exploration

Scammonden Bridge is a photographer's dream, particularly for those with drones. The aerial perspective allows for stunning shots of the bridge's architecture, the winding M62, and the serene Scammonden Reservoir. Many Instagram reels showcase these breathtaking drone views, highlighting the bridge's iconic status.,Instagram Instagram

Beyond the bridge itself, the area around Scammonden Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for exploration. A large car park near the sailing club provides a convenient starting point for walks around the water. These walks allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the region and capture different perspectives of the bridge and its surroundings. Reddit

When planning a visit for photography, consider the time of day. Sunrise and sunset provide the most captivating light, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Even on a less-than-perfect weather day, the dramatic skies can add to the moodiness of your shots, as seen in some night-time drone footage. Instagram

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