What is now one of Scotland's most familiar landmarks was seen as hugely radical when it was built. In this programme Dan Cruickshank admires the imposing bridge and explores its revolutionary cantilever structure.

Forth Bridge Facts

• The structure was designed by Sir John Fowler and Benjamin Baker, constructed by Sir William Arrol and opened in 1890
• Fifty-seven men died building the bridge, while eight others were saved by safety boats under the structure
• Sir Thomas Bouch's earlier design for a bridge on the same site was cancelled in 1879 when his Tay Rail Bridge collapsed
• William Morris called the bridge, "the supremest specimen of all ugliness"

Previous documentaries on BBC Four

Further links

The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland
Information on architectural, archaeological and maritime sites

Railscot
Chronology of the bridge and description of train routes