Lambley Viaduct: A Historic Gem in Northumberland

2024-09-26

Lambley Viaduct is a relic of the golden age of railways. It spans the beautiful South Tyne Valley and offers a glimpse into Victorian engineering. It is an exceptional destination for nature lovers and history buffs. A visit to Lambley Viaduct promises a memorable experience. Here is everything you need to know about Lambley Viaduct and its surroundings.

A Brief History of Lambley Viaduct

Lambley Viaduct was completed in 1852 as part of the Alston Line, which connected Haltwhistle to Alston. It is around 260 metres long in the form of nine stone arches. Each arch has a height of about 17 metres. It is supposedly a work of George Barclay Bruce, the British architect and engineer who was one of the most famous railway engineers of the Victorian era.

Designed to carry trains over the River South Tyne, the viaduct stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Victorian engineers who built it. The trains would carry coal and lead from Alston mines to Haltwhistle Station.

Though the Alston Line closed in the early 1970s, Lambley Viaduct was preserved, and today, it is a Grade II listed structure. In 1991, the British Rail Property Board handed the stone bridge over to the North Pennine Heritage Trust for preservation and maintenance.

The Walking Trails and Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Lambley Viaduct offers a range of walking trails that showcase the natural splendour of the South Tyne Valley. The trail from the parking lot is in itself a great place to take in the view of the countryside.

The surrounding area is a haven for wildlife, and on a quiet day, you may spot birds of prey soaring above or catch a glimpse of deer grazing nearby. The circular trail from Featherstone Castle to Lambley Viaduct is full of great scenery and a fantastic trail to hike. It is around 10 kilometres long and is fantastic if you prefer a longer walk.

Perfect for a Family Day Out

One of the most appealing aspects of visiting Lambley Viaduct is its suitability for all ages. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk across the viaduct. They can also have a picnic in the surrounding meadows or a paddle in the shallow sections of the river.

The area’s quiet, pastoral setting makes it an ideal spot to unwind and spend time with loved ones away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The view from the top of the bridge is pretty spectacular. A few steps down to the bottom of the viaduct will make you appreciate its grandeur and beauty even more.

Nearby Attractions

While Lambley Viaduct may be the highlight of your visit, the surrounding area offers plenty more to explore. Featherstone Castle is only 5 kilometres from Lambley Viaduct. This gothic structure is located on the bank of the River South Tyne and is a unique manor house with a long history.

Hadrian’s Wall is another historical structure close to the bridge. It refers to the remains of an old fortification the Roman emperor, Hadrian, designed to create a frontier boundary.

The Roman Army Museum is pretty close to Hadrian’s Wall. It has some wonderful exhibits and displays and is a wonderful place to visit for families and children.

Planning Your Visit

Lambley Viaduct is beautiful year-round, but for the best experience, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn. It is the time when the weather is mild and the valley is alive with greenery or autumnal colours.

Lambley Viaduct is around 25 minutes from Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages by car, with parking available near the village of Lambley. From there, it’s a short walk to the viaduct itself, where you’ll be greeted by the sight of its towering stone arches rising above the landscape. Public transport options are also available from Haltwhistle station.

Lambley Viaduct offers a slice of tranquillity, history, and beauty in the heart of Northumberland. As you explore the surrounding area, you’ll encounter a tranquil environment teeming with wildlife and breathtaking views.