Harringworth Viaduct

Venue information

Harringworth Viaduct, also known as Welland Viaduct or Seaton Viaduct crosses over the River Welland between Harrington in Northamptonshire and Seaton in Rutland. Its impressive span of 82 arches stretch for three quarters of a mile and having been completed in 1878 by the Midland Railway makes it over 131 years old. With its impressive length, Harringworth Viaduct is the longest masonry railway viaduct across any valley in Britain and carries a grade II listed structure status.

Situated on the Oakham to Kettering line the viaduct carries double track across its entire length, however the line was lightly used up until February 2009 as a diversionary route for East Midlands Trains and special excursions. Since February 2009 a daily service has operated between St. Pancras and Corby and soon this service will be extended to Melton Mowbray, meaning the viaduct will once more see daily services passing across it.

The best view of the impressive viaduct can be witnessed from the Seaton side of the valley looking South East. This can make an impressive late afternoon shot with Harringworth village and the church spire making an ideal backdrop. There are also many local footpaths around the village of Harringworth that lead underneath the striking structure and one of the best to take is the river footpath that can be found 500 yards north of the village.

If you happen to be visiting Northamptonshire a visit to Harringworth Viaduct is highly recommended. It’s worth visiting on an afternoon though if you’re after taking a series of shots. Visit too early and it’s difficult to find the best location to shoot from for the positioning of the sun.

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