Rare opportunity to walk across historic viaduct

A HISTORIC viaduct is opening to pedestrians for only the second time in its long history this weekend.

- by LORNA HUGHES

Rail enthusiasts and residents are being invited to walk across the Chelfham Viaduct to celebrate the bicentenary of modern railways.

The Historical Railways Estate (HRE), which is responsible for maintaining the structure as part of National Highways, said people can enjoy spectacular views from the bridge deck.

The walk will take them along the track bed of the former Lynton-Barnstaple Railway line, which ran across the top from 1896 until it closed in 1935.

Chelfham Viaduct, near Barnstaple, is the largest narrow-gauge viaduct in England, standing at 70ft tall and 400ft long.

Helene Rossiter, head of HRE, said: “We're delighted to be opening this much-loved structure for local people and rail enthusiasts to enjoy and learn about its history and future.