Bennerley Viaduct

Discover this magnificent wrought iron railway viaduct and a wealth of heritage in this corner of DH Lawrence country. Bennerley Viaduct forms a grand centrepiece to a part of the Erewash Valley rich in industrial and natural heritageBuilt between May 1876 and November 1877 to carry the Great Northern Railway’s line over the Erewash Valley, Bennerley Viaduct has great heritage value. It spans the Erewash Valley for 440 metres (approximately ¼ mile) with its deck standing 18 metres (60 feet) above the valley floor. It is an outstanding example of the railway architecture of the time surviving in an almost unaltered state. Because of its importance and to help protect it, it has been given Grade II* listed status since 1974The viaduct came into the ownership of the charity Railway Paths in 2001 as part of a deal to convert 200 miles of disused railways into cycling and walking paths. Working with local communities, funders and partner organisations, Railway Paths delivered a project to repair, restore and re-open Bennerley Viaduct bringing it into public use by building a path across it. The viaduct was re-opened in 2022, 54 years after it closed.A great way to get to the Bennerley area is by bike or on foot along the many paths and trails. Canals pass close by both ends of the viaduct and the Erewash Valley Trail follows these for much of its route. This beautiful 30 mile largely traffic-free circular trail has multiple access pointsIlkeston train station is the closest to Bennerley Viaduct being only 1 mile/1.6km away. Access to the Nottingham and Erewash Canals is just a short walk or cycle from the station