Devon’s remarkable Chelfham Viaduct is set to open its deck to pedestrians for only the second time since its construction over 120 years ago. This rare event invites both railway enthusiasts and local residents to traverse the impressive structure, coinciding with the bicentenary celebrations of modern railways.
The Historical Railways Estate (HRE), part of National Highways and custodians of the viaduct, announced that visitors will experience spectacular panoramic views from the bridge. The viaduct, which carried trains on the Lynton-Barnstaple Railway from 1896 until its closure in 1935, will become a historic walkway for this special occasion.
Standing 70 feet tall and stretching an impressive 400 feet in length, Chelfham Viaduct is England’s tallest of its kind. Situated near Barnstaple, it remains a significant piece of railway heritage, carefully preserved by HRE.
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Helene Rossiter, head of HRE, expressed enthusiasm for the event: “We’re delighted to open this much-loved structure to locals and rail enthusiasts alike. It’s an incredible opportunity to explore its history and significance.”
Highlighting HRE’s commitment to heritage preservation, Rossiter added, “We maintain over 3,100 former railway structures nationwide, including bridges, tunnels, and viaducts. Chelfham Viaduct is regularly inspected and recently underwent brickwork repairs and vegetation clearance to ensure it remains in excellent condition for generations to come.”
This opening is only the second since the viaduct was built in 1896, making the weekend truly special. Supporting the event, the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway group will offer an insightful talk about the railway’s history, with volunteers on hand to answer questions.
Designed by engineer F. W. Chanter, the viaduct was constructed with yellow bricks and rock-faced plinths, involving over a quarter of a million bricks and costing approximately £6,500 at the time.
Near the viaduct, the restored former station features a waiting room and booking hall restored to 1920s condition. Owned by the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Community Interest Company, it will be open for visitors during the event.
Alongside HRE and Lynton and Barnstaple Railway volunteers, the Chelfham Valley Heritage Hub will host a full weekend of activities celebrating ‘Railway 200’—a year-long campaign marking two centuries of modern railway history and inspiring future generations to pursue careers in rail.
Exhibits will explore the viaduct’s history, the railway line, local conservation, and the Growforward Project, a unique initiative transforming Chelfham Mill beneath the viaduct into a hub for hospitality, heritage, and wellbeing.
The viaduct opens on Saturday, May 17 (12 noon – 5pm) and Sunday, May 18 (10am – 4pm). Parking for 60 vehicles is available nearby at the Growforward car park; however, car sharing is encouraged. Public transport is accessible via the 310 bus from Barnstaple Station, operating hourly on Saturday and once on Sunday at 11:40am.
Tickets for the grand opening can be reserved free of charge at nationalhighways.co.uk/chelfhamviaduct.
Location: Chelfham Viaduct, Barnstaple EX31 4RP, with access via Chelfham Station.