Under the bridge on east side.
Hidden away in the countryside near Culloden Battlefield, a little road leads you from the Culloden side of the River Nairn to the fertile lands and uplands of East Strathnairn. (Cantray)
Crossing is done via a bridge which still carries road traffic, albeit with a weight restriction in place.
At first glance, and indeed unless you get out of your car at all, you will think nothing of the Bridge, which once had a Mill alongside. Stop nearby however and walk back to the bridge and you realise that the camouflage of trees helps to hide a historical gem, and some beautiful sights.
At this point the River Nairn is docile and shallow, but it is the colour of cola. The sun striking it makes it look like burnished gold and the canopy of green leaves reflecting upon the slow-moving water makes it look so fresh.
It is apparent that it probably takes its best shots in Winter when the trees are devoid of foliage, but the leaves add a certain aura of splendour.
On the west-side face, where very few folk will thus have seen it, there is a coat of arms and a panel engraved:
THIS BRIDGE WAS BUILT BY DAVID DAVIDSON ESQ OF CANTRAY IN THE YEAR 1774Albeit the weight restriction, and the strengthening bars across the north arch, this bridge looks like it will be around for a long time yet, continuing its long service to the community.
This photo was taken on August 15, 2010
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