Kirkby Stephen and Eden Viaducts Trail
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The trail explores the impressive stone viaducts that carried trains over deep valleys to the south of Kirkby Stephen on the now-closed Stainmore railway.
The viaducts are looked after by the Northern Viaduct Trust (www.nvt.org.uk) who have worked hard to open a pathway along the railway line. The Stainmore railway used to provide an essential link between the coalfields of South Durham and the iron and steel industries in Lancashire and West Cumberland. It was closed following the Beeching Report in 1962, despite strong opposition.
There are two platelayers huts on the viaduct path with interesting exhibition panels showing old photographs and giving some of the history of the line. At weekends there's also the opportunity to visit the museum, cafe and restored steam trains at Kirkby Stephen East Station (at waymark 12 on the walk).
The circuit is made possible by the opening of the Millennium Footbridge at Stenkrith, which offers fantastic views of the Eden as it swirls through the rocks below.
The walk is accompanied by an I-Spy trail, with features you need to look out for on the way. Look in 'Related Downloads' for the Question and Answer sheets. Take the Question sheet on your walk and see how many features you can spot!
England - North England - Cumbria - Eden Valley
Features
Birds, Butterflies, Cafe, Church, Flowers, Food Shop, Gift Shop, Good for Kids, Great Views, Industrial Archaeology, Pub, River, Tea Shop, Toilets, Waterfall, Woodland
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