Scammonden Bridge
An iconic M62 bridge offering breathtaking Yorkshire views, a marvel of engineering, and a popular spot for photographers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Scammonden Bridge
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic M62 bridge offering breathtaking Yorkshire views, a marvel of engineering, and a popular spot for photographers.
"The views from Scammonden Bridge are amazing, but be prepared for the wind!"
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Adjacent to the bridge
Stunning waterscapes perfect for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
M62 Motorway Perspective
From the bridge
Witness the constant flow of traffic on one of the UK's highest motorways.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Heights (and Wind!)
Drone Photography Hotspot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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. :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.,,
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.,
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, creating beautiful golden hour hues over the landscape and reservoir.,
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.
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.
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.,
Yes, the area around Scammonden Reservoir offers opportunities for long walks. The paths provide scenic views of the water and the surrounding countryside.
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.,
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.,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
🏍️ Motorcyclists and Road Trippers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Scammonden Bridge
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.
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.
Experiencing the Views and the Wind
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. Many visitors mention clinging to the railing or to a companion for reassurance.
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.
Drone Photography and Reservoir Exploration
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.
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.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit