Brig o' Balgownie, Aberdeen

The Brig o' Balgownie is a 13th century bridge over the River Don. Made from granite and sandstone at the likely behest of Robert the Bruce, Scottish King from 1306 to 1329. Some say it was commissioned by Bishop Henry Cheyne. Neither the exact year nor the designing engineer of the bridge are known.

The Gothic diamond arch style of the bridge has caused some to believe it was designed by Richard Cementarius. This is probably due to a design that is similar to that of Drum Castle, which is also said to be a Cementarius work. The bridge 39 feet long with an arch that is 56 feet above the water line.

The bridge was originally called the Bridge of Don. It is unknown exactly where the name Balgownie originated. There is consensus that it is based on the local barony, which was probably called Palgoueny or Polgowny.

Visitors should plan to cross the bridge as part of their Aberdeen visit, but they should also look for a distant spot from which they can admire the Brig o' Balgownie and the picturesque River Don.