Ettrickbridge End is situated in what was formerly a royal hunting forest.  The new bridge replaces one which was washed away in 1777.  A stone displaying the Harden coat of arms was rescued and was built into the new bridge.  The Harden family, associated with Sir Walter Scott, owned nearby Aikwood Tower, now owned by Lord Steel of Aikwood, Presiding Officer of the first Scottish Parliament for almost 300 years.