Bridges, Tunnels and Viaducts

Described as ‘A gem of a nature reserve’ this lower walk along both sides of the valley was a most memorable pleasure. We are near the old Smarldale bridge over the river here which is our turning point before heading back to the viaduct via the old railway line. Just past the viaduct the deep gill is heavily wooded and host lots of natural history specimens including many butterflies, reptiles, birds and flowers. Sadly we did not have time to explore that part. The river is Scandal Beck. See and folllow PiP for my previous Viaduct photos and some facts. Best full screen.

A little south of the Smardale Gill Viaduct we arrive at this old humpback bridge across Scandal Beck. We have to cross it and turn right before climbing back to the old railway line walk. See PiP It is officially listed with notes that it was there before 1948. Enjoy the day.

The nightmare view from the wheel of your boat as you approach this infamous low bridge. When driving such a boat you think "will I be one of the many that damage my rental craft here?" I once had a friend who related how he took off (cut off) the entire top of his hire-craft going under here as from this side one cant see far up the river on the other side due to a tight bend and so the instructions are to sound the boat horn and go through as fast as possible but that then brings on the possibility of severe damage should your boat be slightly too high as is the case with many. I have in fact sailed under here a number of times in the past on my boating holidays. I can vouch that it is scary! The river is slightly tidal here and so has high and low waters. Best full size.

We are here in the village of Potter Heigham on the Norfolk Broads. It is the home of many cruiser hire companies and has a fair number of holiday homes too. It is perhaps most famous for its medieval bridge (dating from ~1385) which is quite low & difficult for boats to navigate. We take a walk up the River Thurne from here. See PiP for view from your boat. (adjacent photo) Enjoy the day

We are in The Walks park inside King’s Lynn. A small park but with many things to catch the eye. Here we start to see the onset of our autumn colours too but I think today (a month later) the leave would have been a much richer gold. Enjoy the weekend.

Another look at this fine railway viaduct as we walk down the valley. Built in 1861 and designed by Sir Thomas Bouch for the South Durham and Lancashire Union Railway. Built by Mr Wrigg and was wide enough for a double track but never carried more than one single line. It is 90ft (27m) high and has 14 arches of 30ft span and a total length of 553ft (170m). The line was closed in 1962 and stood disused until 1992 when it was turned into a linear walk and bicycle path. See PiP for alternative view.