Swilken Bridge


(Swilcan Bridge, Golfers' Bridge)

An ancient little pack-horse bridge which crosses the Swilken Burn in St. Andrews (Fife), the Swilken Bridge has become famous as a feature of the St. Andrews Old Course, linking the first and eighteenth fairways. Many notable golfers have been photographed on this bridge, including Jack Nicklaus as he bid farewell to professional golf in 2005. Sometimes known as the Golfers' Bridge and often, but erroneously, referred to as the Swilcan Bridge, this stone-built structure crosses the Swilken Burn and probably dates from Mediaeval times although was rebuilt in the 17th or 18th C. It comprises a single arch with low parapets, 9m (30 feet) in length, and was B-listed in 1971 owing to its cultural significance.

A replica can be found in the World Golf Hall of Fame in St. Augustine, Florida (USA).


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