Lumb Viaduct: Victorian Engineering Marvel in Rossendale
Explore Lumb Viaduct, a stunning Victorian railway landmark offering scenic Rossendale Valley views and a historic walking and cycling route.
Lumb Viaduct, located near Ramsbottom in Bury, Lancashire, is a striking Victorian-era railway viaduct built in 1848 by the East Lancashire Railway. Spanning the River Irwell, this Grade II listed structure exemplifies 19th-century engineering skill and now serves as a scenic walking and cycling route, offering panoramic views of the Rossendale Valley and a tangible connection to Lancashire's industrial railway heritage.
A brief summary to Lumb Viaduct
- Lumb Grange, Bury, Ramsbottom, BL0 0QS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views of the Rossendale Valley from the viaduct.
- Bring a bicycle to enjoy the full walking and cycling route across the restored viaduct.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the path includes some uneven surfaces typical of historic railway paths.
- Combine your visit with exploring nearby Ramsbottom, known for its charming town center and local amenities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Ramsbottom station on the East Lancashire Railway heritage line, then enjoy a 20-minute walk along local footpaths to Lumb Viaduct. The heritage railway has regular weekend and holiday services with ticket prices around £10–£15.
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Bus and Walk
Use local bus services from Bury to Ramsbottom, with a journey time of approximately 30–40 minutes. From Ramsbottom town center, it is a 30-minute walk to the viaduct along well-marked paths. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £5.
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Car
Drive to Ramsbottom where limited parking is available near Lumb Grange. From parking areas, expect a 10–15 minute walk to the viaduct. Parking is free but can be limited on weekends and holidays.
Lumb Viaduct location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Lumb Viaduct
Architectural Grandeur of a Victorian Railway Icon
Lumb Viaduct stands as a testament to Victorian engineering prowess, constructed in 1848 by the East Lancashire Railway, later integrated into the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway network. This Grade II listed railway viaduct carries the historic railway line over the River Irwell, showcasing robust stone arches and meticulous masonry that reflect the industrial ambition of the mid-19th century. Its enduring presence highlights the skill and vision of engineers and builders from that era, serving as a landmark of Lancashire’s rich railway heritage.Historic Role in Lancashire’s Rail Network
Originally part of the East Lancashire Railway’s branch from Manchester-Rawtenstall, opened on 18 September 1848, Lumb Viaduct played a crucial role in connecting communities and facilitating industrial transport in the Rossendale area. The viaduct enabled trains to traverse challenging terrain, linking Ramsbottom and surrounding towns efficiently. Though railway services ceased, the viaduct remains a physical reminder of the region’s industrial past and the transformative impact of rail travel on northern England’s economic development.Transformation into a Recreational Pathway
In 2015, extensive restoration work by Railway Paths Ltd enabled the viaduct to be repurposed as part of a walking and cycling route managed by Sustrans. This adaptive reuse has breathed new life into the structure, allowing visitors to experience its architectural beauty up close while enjoying outdoor recreation. The elevated path offers breathtaking vistas of the Rossendale Valley, making it a favored spot for nature lovers, cyclists, and history enthusiasts alike.Scenic Surroundings and Natural Harmony
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Rossendale, the viaduct’s setting enhances its dramatic visual impact. The combination of sturdy stone arches against rolling green hills and the flowing River Irwell creates a harmonious blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty. This tranquil environment invites visitors to reflect on the interplay between human ingenuity and the surrounding countryside.Preservation and Cultural Significance
As a protected historic structure, Lumb Viaduct is recognized for its architectural and cultural importance. Its maintenance and conservation ensure that future generations can appreciate this emblem of Lancashire’s railway history. The viaduct also serves as an educational resource, illustrating engineering techniques of the Victorian era and the evolution of regional transport infrastructure.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Today, Lumb Viaduct is accessible to the public as part of a broader network of railway paths, offering a unique blend of history, exercise, and scenic enjoyment. The route across the viaduct is suitable for walkers and cyclists, providing a safe and inspiring environment to explore the legacy of Lancashire’s railways while immersed in the peaceful ambiance of the Rossendale Valley.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lumb Viaduct
0.0 km
Discover the historic Victorian Lumb Viaduct, a stunning railway landmark offering scenic walks and cycling across Lancashire’s Rossendale Valley.
Peel Tower
3.6 km
Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Wayoh Reservoir
6.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Robert Peel Statue
9.0 km
Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Sussex Avenue
10.3 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Rivington Pike Tower
15.8 km
Historic 18th-century hunting lodge atop Rivington Pike offering panoramic Lancashire views and rich cultural heritage within scenic Lever Park.
Rivington Pike
15.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Rivington Pike, a perfect hiking destination in Lancashire for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Heaton Park Temple
15.8 km
Discover the tranquil neoclassical Heaton Park Temple, perched atop Manchester’s largest park with stunning city views and rich historic charm.
Tonge Hall
16.4 km
Discover Tonge Hall, a rare Elizabethan timber-framed manor in Middleton, blending Tudor grandeur with poignant history and ongoing restoration.
Heaton Park Papal Monument
16.5 km
A granite testament to faith and history where 200,000 gathered for a papal milestone in 1982.
Manchester Old Town Hall Colonnade
16.6 km
A neoclassical relic of Manchester’s first Town Hall, relocated and preserved as a serene monument in Heaton Park.
Lowry Footbridge
20.8 km
A Victorian iron bridge immortalized in art, connecting Manchester's industrial past to its present.
Chorley's Flying Arches
20.9 km
Discover Chorley’s rare Victorian Flying Arches, a unique blend of historic railway engineering and modern heritage preservation.
Robert Owen Statue
21.5 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
Ancoats Green
21.7 km
Discover Ancoats Green, a peaceful park in Manchester offering lush landscapes and a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.
Unmissable attractions to see
Holden Wood Antiques Ltd
3.2 km
Discover timeless antiques and savor classic British tea room delights in the heart of Haslingden’s vibrant Rossendale community.
The Whitaker
3.3 km
A vibrant cultural hub in Rawtenstall blending local history, contemporary art, and community spirit in a welcoming museum and gallery.
Waugh's Well
3.9 km
A serene moorland monument honoring Edwin Waugh, Lancashire’s cherished dialect poet and his creative refuge on Scout Moor.
Turton Tower
7.4 km
Discover 600 years of history in a tranquil Tudor manor nestled in beautiful woodlands near Bolton, with gardens, a café, and engaging volunteer guides.
Jumbles Country Park
7.8 km
Peaceful reservoir walks, accessible trails, and woodland serenity await at Bolton’s Jumbles Country Park.
Bury Transport Museum
8.9 km
Explore vintage vehicles and interactive exhibits in a historic 1848 railway warehouse celebrating Northwest England’s transport heritage.
East Lancashire Railway
9.0 km
Step aboard the East Lancashire Railway for scenic steam and diesel journeys through historic Lancashire, starting at the iconic Bury Bolton Street Station.
Healey Dell Fairies Chapel
9.7 km
Discover the enchanting Fairies Chapel at Healey Dell, a natural rock grotto steeped in folklore and nestled within a tranquil riverside nature reserve.
Hall i' th' Wood Museum
10.4 km
A rare Tudor manor house in Bolton, famous as the home where Samuel Crompton invented the Spinning Mule, now a museum of domestic and industrial history.
Singing Ringing Tree
11.1 km
Experience Burnley’s iconic wind-powered sculpture that sings haunting melodies while offering stunning panoramic views of the Pennines.
Queen's Park
11.9 km
A serene Victorian park where heritage charm meets family-friendly recreation in Blackburn's green heart.
Smithills Hall
12.0 km
Explore Smithills Hall, a historic Bolton manor blending medieval charm, Victorian elegance, haunting tales, and serene gardens on the West Pennine Moors.
Radcliffe Tower
12.2 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Radcliffe Tower, a must-visit landmark in Manchester that encapsulates the essence of local heritage.
Market Place Shopping Centre
12.6 km
Historic charm meets modern shopping and entertainment at Bolton’s Market Place Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub for all ages.
Victoria Sq
12.8 km
Victoria Square is Bolton’s iconic civic hub where historic grandeur meets lively community spirit in the heart of the town.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Metamorphica
3.4 km
Exclusive fine dining in Haslingden offering innovative British tasting menus in an intimate, handcrafted setting by Chef Steven Halligan.
Crowded House Restaurant
11.8 km
A vibrant blend of modern British dining, quirky charm, and lively bar culture in the heart of Bury.
Northern Crafthouse
13.5 km
A vibrant brew house in Whitefield blending modern style, craft beers, and hearty American comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Cellar Restaurant
14.3 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Bertram's Restaurant
15.0 km
Sophisticated adult-only dining with creative British cuisine, cocktails, and stunning countryside views near Burnley.
Nick's Restaurant
16.9 km
Experience exquisite Modern European cuisine in a lively, cozy setting with attentive service at Nick's Restaurant in Horwich, Bolton.
Artisan Ribble Valley
17.0 km
Experience Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting with local flavors, scenic terraces, and a vibrant cocktail bar in Billington, Clitheroe.
The Bonny Inn
17.1 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
17.3 km
Luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, elegant rooms, and tranquil Ribble Valley views for a refined countryside escape.
Ewe Restaurant and Bar
18.9 km
Modern British cuisine meets stylish comfort in Bolton’s Ewe Restaurant and Bar, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
The Cherry Tree at Blackrod
19.7 km
A vibrant modern British gastropub in Bolton offering classic dishes, elegant events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Retreat Adlington
19.9 km
A vibrant grill and cocktail bar in Adlington offering quality steaks, pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Encore Restaurant
20.8 km
Modern British cuisine and vibrant cocktails meet stylish celebrations in the heart of Chorley’s Brewers Print Building.
The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
21.1 km
Cozy railway-arch eatery in Manchester serving authentic handmade spätzle and Central European pasta with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.
Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
21.2 km
Elegant British dining with scenic golf course views at Shaw Hill’s Regency-style Vardons Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quirky Gifts
9.7 km
Explore Accrington's most charming gift shop for unique, whimsical treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
15.1 km
Explore Crissys Gifts For All Occasions in Blackburn for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
Witches Galore
20.0 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
Salford Shopping Centre
20.7 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Annea Veleta
21.4 km
A curated, maker-focused gift boutique in Ancoats offering handcrafted homewares, stationery and tasteful Manchester-themed keepsakes.
GRACIOUS APPARELS
21.6 km
Discover diverse fashion treasures in Ancoats: custom T-shirts, alterations, designer clothes, and more at this vibrant Manchester clothing hub.
Hoot
21.7 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Once Upon a Smile
21.7 km
Explore Once Upon a Smile in Manchester for unique clothing that reflects your personal style.
&made
21.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
21.8 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Rams Gift World
21.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Jessica6 Designs
21.8 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
21.8 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
21.8 km
Discover Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre: Your Ultimate Destination for Shopping, Dining, and Leisure Activities in the Heart of Manchester.
Deadstock General Store
21.8 km
Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Nook & Cranny Bromley Cross
9.2 km
A cozy, community-focused tap house in Bromley Cross serving quality cask ales in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
White Orchid Boutique Bar
9.3 km
Stylish boutique bar in Accrington offering quality drinks, cozy ambiance, and live music for a vibrant social experience.
Piggy Banks
13.1 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Bolton offering a great selection of ales and simple food in a cozy, welcoming setting near the train station.
The Rivington
16.7 km
A stylish gastropub in Horwich offering fresh, quality dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.
The Dressers Arms | Pub & Rooms
18.5 km
Charming countryside pub and cozy rooms offering hearty food, local ales, and warm hospitality in scenic Wheelton, Chorley.
Waggon & Horses
18.7 km
A lively traditional British pub in Westhoughton offering hearty fare, well-kept beers, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Riley's Taproom and Wine Bar
20.7 km
A stylish and welcoming taproom in Chorley offering craft beers, fine wines, and a cozy atmosphere for relaxed socializing.
The Shed Chorley
20.7 km
A vibrant micro bar in Chorley offering rustic charm, live music, and signature wine and cheese platters every weekend.
Ribchester Arms
20.8 km
A charming Lancashire inn blending historic roots, hearty gastropub fare, and cozy comfort in the heart of Ribchester.
The Old Wellington
21.6 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
The Washhouse
21.7 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
Bar Fringe
21.7 km
A cozy Northern Quarter bar with quirky charm, top Belgian beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for relaxed socializing.
Wolf at the Door
21.7 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Be At One - Manchester
21.8 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
The Crown & Kettle
21.8 km
Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level Nightclub
12.8 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Redroom Burnley
13.7 km
Experience Burnley’s vibrant nightlife with The Redroom’s lively music, diverse drinks, and late-night party atmosphere in the town centre.
Underground
14.7 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
17.3 km
Vibrant nightclub and restaurant in Whalley offering lively weekend events, diverse music, and friendly service in Ribble Valley’s heart.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
20.9 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Bijou Club
21.4 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Cargo
21.6 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Funkademia
21.9 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
21.9 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
21.9 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Club Liv Manchester
21.9 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Aatma
22.0 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Twenty Twenty Two
22.1 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Venue Nightclub
22.2 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
22.2 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly