The
iron giant

Bennerley
Viaduct

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The Iron Giant stands 20m tall, stretches for 1/4 mile and gives walkers and cyclists a unique view of the wildlife haven below.

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PARKING

Ilkeston train station, 15 minutes walk away

On-street parking in Awsworth (cross the bypass carefully) and on Bridge Street and Skeavingtons Lane in Cotmanhay. Be considerate to residents. The Cotmanhay route is best for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Very small car park beside the Nottingham Canal off Newton’s Lane. Be aware that it is not a dedicated car park and is used by anglers and canal users.

TOILETS

No toilets available.

LOCATION

View on map.

This Erewash record breaker is the longest Victorian wrought iron viaduct in England and was built in 1877 to carry the railway and its cargo from Nottingham to Derby. 146 years old, 20 metres high and one of only two of its kind that remain, it spans ¼ mile of the Erewash Valley.

Now Grade II* listed and open to everyone, it is described by the World Monuments Fund as “an extraordinary monument” and by Historic England as “a stunning example of the genius of British Engineering”. It was closed to trains in the 1960s and became derelict, but has recently been given a new lease of life by the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct.

Walk along the viaduct to see the Erewash valley from a new angle, or make it part of a longer walk. Plans are being made for a second access ramp, visitor centre and car park to be created in 2024.

  • The Bennerley Viaduct crossing the Erewash River plain at sunset
  • A section of the Bennerley Viaduct who is 30 metres high
  • An aerial view of the Bennerley Viaduct which spans the River Erewash
  • The Iron Giant, or Bennerley Viaduct, which spans 1/4 mile over the River Erewash
  • Click images to view full gallery
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