On our October walk we had a very informative guided tour around the Bennerley Viaduct which was led by volunteers from ‘Friends of the Viaduct’.
We learnt a lot about its history and that of the surrounding area.
The Bennerley Viaduct is an iconic iron railway structure spanning the Erewash Valley near Ilkeston, Derbyshire. Built in 1877, it is celebrated for its elegant lattice girder design and remarkable engineering, being one of only two surviving wrought-iron viaducts in Britain.
Stretching over 400 metres, the viaduct was originally constructed to carry coal trains between Nottingham and Derby. Today, it stands as a testament to Victorian ingenuity and resilience, having survived both natural challenges and threats of demolition. Now restored, Bennerley Viaduct offers a scenic walkway for cyclists and pedestrians, whilst preserving local heritage.
Currently the Nottinghamshire end is closed off whilst the easy access route and visitors centre are being completed, and we have been invited back for a longer walk next year.
Our next walk is on 20th November
We are starting form the parking area at the bottom of Felley Lane South for a walk in the area which was a favourite of D H Lawrence.
Details will be sent out to the group.
David Rose