Whalley Viaduct: Lancashire’s Majestic Railway Arches
A stunning 48-arch brick railway viaduct soaring over Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, blending Victorian engineering with gothic echoes of nearby Whalley Abbey.
Whalley Viaduct, also known locally as the Whalley Arches, is a magnificent 48-span railway viaduct crossing the River Calder near Whalley in Lancashire, England. Built between 1846 and 1850 from over six million red and blue bricks, it is the longest brick viaduct in Lancashire, soaring 70 feet above the valley. The viaduct carries the Ribble Valley Line and is renowned for its elegant arches, historic engineering, and proximity to Whalley Abbey’s gothic gatehouse.
A brief summary to Whalley Viaduct
- 23 Ridding Ln, Clitheroe, Whalley, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate brickwork and surrounding valley views.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Whalley Abbey to explore medieval ruins and gothic architecture.
- Look out for heritage steam train services crossing the viaduct, especially the ‘Cumbrian Mountain Express’.
- Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of the viaduct’s arches framed by the natural landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Whalley station on the Ribble Valley Line from Blackburn or Clitheroe. The station is approximately 1.5 km north of the viaduct. Trains run regularly with journey times from Blackburn around 20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £5-£10 one way.
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Car
Drive to 23 Ridding Lane, Whalley, where parking is limited but available nearby. The viaduct is visible from local roads. Travel time from Blackburn is about 25 minutes via A59. Note some narrow country lanes and limited parking near the viaduct.
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Walking
From Whalley village centre, a scenic 20-30 minute walk along quiet country lanes and footpaths leads to the viaduct. Terrain is mostly flat but includes some uneven surfaces. Suitable for most walkers.
Whalley 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 Whalley Viaduct
Engineering Marvel of the Victorian Era
Constructed over four years from 1846 to 1850, the Whalley Viaduct was designed by civil engineer Terence Woulfe Flanagan to carry the Blackburn to Clitheroe railway line across the River Calder valley. Stretching approximately 620 meters (679 yards) with 48 elegant arches, it stands 21 meters (70 feet) tall at its highest point. The viaduct is the longest brick viaduct in Lancashire and was built using over six million bricks made locally from clay sourced at Hardley Common. Two of its arches feature distinctive gothic-style brick infill, reflecting the nearby 14th-century Whalley Abbey’s architectural influence.Historical Significance and Challenges
The viaduct was part of a strategic expansion by the Blackburn & Bolton Railway Company to connect the Ribble Valley’s industrial centres with Lancashire’s wider network. During construction, two arches collapsed due to flood-undermined scaffolding, tragically causing three fatalities. Despite this, the project was completed at a cost of £40,000, a considerable sum at the time, and officially opened with a celebratory train ride in June 1850. The viaduct’s enduring presence has supported freight and passenger services for over 170 years, including heritage steam trains that highlight its historical importance.Architectural and Cultural Context
The viaduct’s red and blue brickwork and Romanesque arches complement the gothic elements of nearby Whalley Abbey, creating a visually harmonious landscape. Two of the arches near Ridding Lane are ‘blind lancet’ arches—solid with recessed brickwork—designed to echo the abbey’s gothic style. The viaduct is not only a vital transport link but also a cultural landmark, situated under the shadow of Pendle Hill, an area rich in folklore and history, including the famed Pendle Witch Trials.Modern Preservation and Usage
Today, the Whalley Viaduct is a Grade II listed structure maintained by Network Rail. Recent preservation efforts include 3D laser scanning to create detailed digital models for structural assessment and ongoing brickwork repairs to combat erosion and vegetation damage. The viaduct remains operational on the Ribble Valley Line, serving commuters and tourists alike. Special heritage steam services frequently cross the viaduct, offering a nostalgic experience and showcasing this engineering gem.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors can admire the viaduct’s impressive scale and craftsmanship from nearby roads and footpaths, with panoramic views of the Calder valley and Pendle Hill. Its proximity to Whalley Abbey ruins adds a rich historical dimension to any visit. The surrounding Ribble Valley is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making the viaduct a scenic highlight for walkers, photographers, and railway enthusiasts.Legacy of Industrial Connectivity
The Whalley Viaduct symbolizes the transformative power of Victorian railway engineering in linking rural Lancashire to industrial hubs. Its construction facilitated economic growth and remains a testament to 19th-century craftsmanship and ambition. As plans continue to enhance rail connectivity in the region, the viaduct stands as both a functional infrastructure and a cherished heritage landmark for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lumb Viaduct
17.6 km
Discover the historic Victorian Lumb Viaduct, a stunning railway landmark offering scenic walks and cycling across Lancashire’s Rossendale Valley.
Wayoh Reservoir
19.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
19.9 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant artistry at the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Preston, a must-visit cultural hub for every traveler.
Preston Cenotaph
20.0 km
A dignified and beautifully restored memorial in Preston’s Central Park, honoring the city’s fallen soldiers with solemnity and grace.
Peel Tower
20.4 km
Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Chorley's Flying Arches
22.4 km
Discover Chorley’s rare Victorian Flying Arches, a unique blend of historic railway engineering and modern heritage preservation.
Rivington Pike
24.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Rivington Pike, a perfect hiking destination in Lancashire for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Rivington Pike Tower
24.0 km
Historic 18th-century hunting lodge atop Rivington Pike offering panoramic Lancashire views and rich cultural heritage within scenic Lever Park.
Robert Peel Statue
26.5 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
27.8 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Heskin Hall Shopping Village
28.8 km
Explore Heskin Hall Shopping Village: A delightful blend of boutiques, cafes, and local artistry in a serene countryside setting.
Moses Gate Country Park
29.0 km
Explore the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife at Moses Gate Country Park, a serene destination for families and nature lovers in Bolton.
Radcliffe Tower
29.5 km
Medieval fortress and Grade I listed monument preserving centuries of Lancashire's feudal heritage
Malham Cove
32.6 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Malham Cove, a natural limestone amphitheater in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Janet's Foss
32.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Janet's Foss, a hidden gem in Malham, featuring a stunning waterfall and picturesque nature trails perfect for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whalley Abbey East Gatehouse
0.1 km
Explore the majestic 14th-century East Gatehouse of Whalley Abbey, a historic gateway to Lancashire’s rich medieval monastic heritage.
Whalley Arches
0.1 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Whalley Arches, Lancashire’s longest brick viaduct, blending Victorian engineering with stunning Ribble Valley scenery.
Memorial Park
3.3 km
A peaceful green haven in Great Harwood blending remembrance, vibrant gardens, and active sports facilities.
Tin Man Sculpture
3.5 km
A whimsical and iconic outdoor sculpture celebrating creativity amid the scenic landscapes of Langho, Blackburn.
Cromwell's Bridge
3.8 km
Explore Cromwell's Bridge in Clitheroe, a historical landmark that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region.
Nick of Pendle
4.9 km
Historic high point near Clitheroe offering stunning views, Bronze Age rock art, and links to the Pendle Witch Trials.
Clitheroe Castle Museum
5.6 km
Explore 800 years of history and stunning Ribble Valley views at Clitheroe Castle Museum, a family-friendly heritage site in Lancashire.
Driscolls Antiques Ltd
7.2 km
Discover exquisite British antique furniture and expert restoration in Clitheroe’s welcoming family-run showroom.
Ribchester Roman Museum
7.9 km
Explore Lancashire’s only Roman antiquities museum, showcasing Bremetenacum Veteranorum’s rich history through artifacts, ruins, and engaging events.
Boyce's Wood
8.1 km
Discover peaceful trails and lush greenery in Boyce's Wood, a serene woodland retreat near Preston, Lancashire.
National Trust - Gawthorpe Hall
8.1 km
Discover the enchanting blend of Jacobean architecture, Victorian grandeur, and expansive woodland at Gawthorpe Hall in Lancashire.
Mrs Dowsons Farm Park
8.2 km
Experience Lancashire’s beloved working farm with hands-on animal encounters, play areas, and farm-made ice cream for all ages.
Pendle Hill
9.2 km
Explore Pendle Hill’s legendary landscapes, rich history, and breathtaking views in the heart of Lancashire’s countryside.
The Mall Blackburn
9.3 km
A vibrant shopping centre blending mainstream and independent stores in the heart of Blackburn’s town centre.
Queen's Park
9.5 km
A serene Victorian park where heritage charm meets family-friendly recreation in Blackburn's green heart.
Essential places to dine
Artisan Ribble Valley
1.7 km
Experience Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting with local flavors, scenic terraces, and a vibrant cocktail bar in Billington, Clitheroe.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
2.6 km
Luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, elegant rooms, and tranquil Ribble Valley views for a refined countryside escape.
The Bonny Inn
5.9 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
The Cellar Restaurant
6.8 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Angels Restaurant
9.6 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Bertram's Restaurant
10.8 km
Sophisticated adult-only dining with creative British cuisine, cocktails, and stunning countryside views near Burnley.
Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
11.0 km
Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
Restaurant Metamorphica
14.3 km
Exclusive fine dining in Haslingden offering innovative British tasting menus in an intimate, handcrafted setting by Chef Steven Halligan.
The Italian Orchard
19.1 km
Spacious and stylish Italian dining in Broughton, offering a vast menu and lively atmosphere for families and groups.
Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
19.9 km
A vibrant American-inspired bar and restaurant in Preston, famed for inventive dishes and lively cocktails in a buzzing social setting.
Aven Restaurant
20.2 km
Experience Preston’s finest with Aven Restaurant’s award-winning British cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and warm, elegant ambiance.
The Broughton Inn
20.3 km
Historic gastropub in Broughton offering classic British dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere just north of Preston.
Walled Garden Restaurant
21.2 km
A stylish British bistro in Preston offering fresh, locally sourced dishes and renowned afternoon tea in a charming garden conservatory setting.
The Pickled Goose
21.3 km
A lively British pub and restaurant in Barton, Preston, blending countryside charm with modern dining and a vibrant social bar.
Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
21.5 km
Elegant British dining with scenic golf course views at Shaw Hill’s Regency-style Vardons Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quirky Gifts
7.9 km
Explore Accrington's most charming gift shop for unique, whimsical treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Witches Galore
10.0 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
13.4 km
Explore Crissys Gifts For All Occasions in Blackburn for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
The Old Rock Home & Gifts Shop
18.5 km
A charming village boutique offering unique gifts, homewares, and clothing with warm local hospitality in Trawden, Lancashire.
Retrogue Vintage Clothing
20.0 km
Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
KENJI Preston
20.1 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
The Mill Shop
20.4 km
A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
Rufford's Country Lifestyle
23.4 km
Discover premium British country wear and footwear at Rufford's, your stylish gateway to authentic country living near Preston.
Dream
25.2 km
Distinctive gifts in the heart of Lancashire's historic market town.
The Hive
25.2 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at The Hive, Garstang’s beloved local gift shop nestled in a charming historic setting.
THE FOSSIL STORE
25.4 km
A unique design studio and shop in the Forest of Bowland, transforming rare fossils into bespoke art and jewellery.
Mood Gifts & Home
26.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique in Longton, Preston.
Market Place Shopping Centre
26.8 km
Explore the lively Market Place Shopping Centre in Bolton, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for a memorable experience.
North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
28.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the historic Bygone Times at Eccleston, where every piece tells a story of style and sustainability.
Bygone Times
28.4 km
Discover Bygone Times, an antique paradise in Eccleston, Chorley, brimming with vintage treasures waiting to be unearthed.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Wine and Cocktail Bar and Thai at the Kings
5.5 km
A chic cocktail bar and authentic Thai restaurant in Clitheroe offering fresh flavors, elegant ambiance, and warm hospitality.
Ribchester Arms
7.6 km
A charming Lancashire inn blending historic roots, hearty gastropub fare, and cozy comfort in the heart of Ribchester.
White Orchid Boutique Bar
8.3 km
Stylish boutique bar in Accrington offering quality drinks, cozy ambiance, and live music for a vibrant social experience.
The Stage Door
12.6 km
A cozy, rustic bar and restaurant in Longridge offering expertly crafted cocktails, stone-baked pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for relaxed and lively nights.
The Plough Grimsargh
14.3 km
A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Stags Head
16.7 km
A charming Lancashire gastropub blending traditional British fare with warm hospitality in the heart of Goosnargh village.
The Dressers Arms | Pub & Rooms
19.5 km
Charming countryside pub and cozy rooms offering hearty food, local ales, and warm hospitality in scenic Wheelton, Chorley.
Blitz Venue & Nightclub
19.7 km
Experience Preston’s vibrant late-night scene with live DJs, affordable drinks, and an energetic club atmosphere at Blitz Venue & Nightclub.
Hogarths
19.8 km
Historic Victorian gin palace in Preston city centre, famed for its vast gin selection, lively sports atmosphere, and vibrant community spirit.
Guild Ale House
19.9 km
Preston’s first micro pub, Guild Ale House serves exceptional local ales in a cozy, lively setting with a welcoming community vibe.
Winedown
19.9 km
Discover Winedown, Preston’s cozy underground wine bar with exceptional wines, artisan cheese boards, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Baluga Bar & Club
19.9 km
Experience Preston's vibrant nightlife at Baluga Bar & Club, where stylish drinks meet a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
Revolution Preston
20.0 km
A vibrant four-level cocktail bar and restaurant in Preston city centre, perfect for dining, cocktails, and late-night partying.
Black Horse
20.1 km
Historic Black Horse Pub in Preston offers award-winning real ales, classic charm, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Plug & Taps
20.2 km
Discover Preston’s craft beer gem at Plug & Taps, a cozy micro pub blending modern vibes with a vibrant community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
0.6 km
Vibrant nightclub and restaurant in Whalley offering lively weekend events, diverse music, and friendly service in Ribble Valley’s heart.
The Redroom Burnley
11.7 km
Experience Burnley’s vibrant nightlife with The Redroom’s lively music, diverse drinks, and late-night party atmosphere in the town centre.
The Warehouse
19.7 km
Three floors of diverse music and vibrant nightlife in Preston’s welcoming alternative club scene.
Popworld - Preston
19.8 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
Switch Nightclub
20.0 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Level Nightclub
27.2 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Park Hall Nightclub
27.8 km
Experience the vibrant energy and nostalgic vibes of Park Hall Nightclub, Chorley’s premier rural nightlife destination.
Underground
30.3 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Pure Nightclub
33.9 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Pure Nightclub, where energetic beats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night memories come alive every Saturday.
Ibiza Nightclub
34.0 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
38.4 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
38.9 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Cargo
39.1 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Club Liv Manchester
39.4 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Funkademia
39.4 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Tranquil
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
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- 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