The Meldon Viaduct is a historic railway viaduct located on Dartmoor, a national park in Devon, England. The viaduct was built in 1874 and spans 165 meters over the remains of mineral mines. It played a crucial role in bringing the railway to the area and is now a popular spot for walkers and cyclists.
Key Facts:
Built in 1874
Spans 165 meters over the remains of mineral mines
Part of the Dartmoor Railway
A key feature of the Granite Way cycle route, part of NCN 27 ‘Devon Coast to Coast’
Offers stunning views of Meldon Dam and reservoir to the south west
A popular spot for walkers and cyclists
Interesting Snippets:
The viaduct was built by the London and South Western Railway (LSWR) and its engineer, William Galbraith.
The viaduct was opened on October 12, 1874, linking Okehampton and Lydford (Lidford).
The viaduct has been featured in several films and TV shows, including Steven Spielberg’s War Horse.
The viaduct is now managed by the Dartmoor Railway Association and is open to the public.
Related Entities:
Meldon Viaduct Company Ltd: The company responsible for the construction and maintenance of the viaduct.
Dartmoor Railway: The railway that operates on the viaduct.
Granite Way: A multi-use recreational route that crosses the viaduct.
NCN 27 ‘Devon Coast to Coast’: A national cycle network route that passes through the viaduct.