Bennerely Viaduct tour will give visitors a unique perspective of the famous 'Iron Giant' bridge

A special guided tour of the famous Bennerley Viaduct later this week is set to give visitors a unique perspective of the historic structure. 

The tour on Friday, April 12 has been organised by the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct group, the charity which maintains the former railway bridge. 

During the two-hour tour of the Victorian structure, visitors will learn about its 146-year history and the wildlife in the Erewash Valley below. 

Affectionately known as the Iron Giant, the huge structure was built in 1878 to connect Nottingham and Derby via the Friargate Line.

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One of only two surviving wrought iron viaducts remaining in the UK, the 433-metre-long structure is a marvel of Victorian engineering. 

The Grade II listed structure was closed in 1968 following the Beeching cuts and remained derelict for five decades. 

In 2022 it was re-opened to walkers, cyclists, and heritage explorers following a £1.7 million restoration project. 

Access to the Nottinghamshire side of the viaduct is currently restricted due to the construction of a new ramp. 

For the next 10 weeks, the steps at the Nottinghamshire end will be closed, although visitors can still access the viaduct via the Erewash canal side. 

You can secure your place on the free guided tour by registering here.