Cannington Viaduct
A magnificent, disused concrete railway viaduct from the early 1900s, offering impressive scale and echoes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Cannington Viaduct
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent, disused concrete railway viaduct from the early 1900s, offering impressive scale and echoes.
"What a gorgeous bit of architecture. Ridiculously huge and impressive!"
Park Safely
No direct parking. Pull over safely on the side of the road nearby to access the viaduct. :car:
Walk Beneath It
Experience the echoes and scale by walking under the impressive arches. :sound:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Concrete Structure
Beneath the Viaduct
Marvel at this massive, disused concrete railway viaduct, a testament to early 20th-century engineering.
Echoes Under the Arches
Road beneath the Viaduct
Experience the impressive scale and unique acoustics by standing beneath the viaduct's arches.
Historical Railway Line
Lyme Regis Branch Line
Imagine the past as you view the viaduct that once served the Lyme Regis branch line, connecting to Axminster.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Viaduct
Photography Opportunities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park Safely
No direct parking. Pull over safely on the side of the road nearby to access the viaduct. :car:
Walk Beneath It
Experience the echoes and scale by walking under the impressive arches. :sound:
Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial shots of this unique concrete engineering marvel. :camerawithflash:
Combine with a Walk
Incorporate the viaduct into a scenic walk, like a circular route from Lyme Regis. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Park Safely
No direct parking. Pull over safely on the side of the road nearby to access the viaduct. :car:
Walk Beneath It
Experience the echoes and scale by walking under the impressive arches. :sound:
Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial shots of this unique concrete engineering marvel. :camerawithflash:
Combine with a Walk
Incorporate the viaduct into a scenic walk, like a circular route from Lyme Regis. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Cannington Viaduct to be a gorgeous and impressive piece of architectural history, particularly enjoying the experience of standing beneath its massive arches and the unique echoes. While direct access to the top is not possible and parking is limited to roadside pull-offs, it's considered a worthwhile detour for its visual impact and historical significance.
"Nice little detour off the main road for a quick pic. Would be cool to walk over if possible."
Liezel Teague
"A piece of architectural history. One architectural was reinforced with brick because of settlement."
Ian Bisson
"What a gorgeous bit of architecture. Lovely quiet little road that you can drive under the viaduct on, and also pull up underneath and experience the echos. It's ridiculously huge and impressive, if you like that sort of thing, of course!"
Tania Chomicz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cannington Viaduct is located near the border of Devon and Dorset. It's often accessed via a quiet road that runs underneath it. While there's no dedicated parking, visitors can pull over on the side of the road nearby to explore on foot.
Direct parking is not available at the Cannington Viaduct. Visitors typically find space to pull over on the side of the adjacent road to access the site.
Unfortunately, you cannot walk on top of the Cannington Viaduct as it is disused and not safe for public access. The best experience is from below.
Many visitors enjoy driving under the viaduct on the quiet road to appreciate its scale and the echoes it creates. It's also a popular stop for those walking in the surrounding countryside.
While cyclists can ride on the road beneath the viaduct, access to the structure itself is not permitted. The surrounding area offers scenic cycling routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entry fees required to visit the Cannington Viaduct. It is an outdoor historical site accessible to the public.
Cannington Viaduct is an outdoor landmark and can be visited at any time. However, daytime visits are recommended for the best photographic opportunities.
There is no admission fee to visit Cannington Viaduct. It's a free historical site to explore from the outside.
Official tours of Cannington Viaduct are not typically offered due to its disused nature. However, local walking groups may organize excursions that include the viaduct.
Access to the area beneath the viaduct is via a road, which is generally accessible. However, the terrain might be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The road running underneath the viaduct offers fantastic perspectives for capturing its immense size and architectural details. Drone photography also provides unique aerial views. 
Daytime, especially during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset, can provide dramatic lighting for photographing the viaduct. Clear days also enhance its visual impact.
Yes, drones are often used to capture the Cannington Viaduct, showcasing its impressive concrete structure from above. Always be mindful of local drone regulations.
Experiment with angles from directly beneath the arches to capture the scale, and from a distance to frame it within the landscape. The reinforced brick section is also a point of interest.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scale of the viaduct. A drone offers unparalleled aerial perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Photographers & History Buffs
+1For history buffs, the viaduct represents a tangible link to the past, specifically the Lyme Regis branch line. Understanding its construction, its role in connecting Lyme Regis, and its eventual disuse in 1965 adds a rich narrative to the visual experience.
+1 The reinforced brick section also offers a point of interest for those fascinated by structural details. Walkers & Hikers
While the viaduct itself isn't a destination for a long hike on top, the surrounding area provides beautiful trails. The walk to and from the viaduct, especially from the road beneath, allows for appreciation of its scale and the surrounding countryside. Remember to wear sturdy footwear as the terrain can be uneven.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Engineering Marvel of the Past
+1The viaduct's construction in concrete was innovative for its time, showcasing advancements in building materials and techniques. Over the years, one section was notably reinforced with brick due to settlement, a testament to the challenges faced in its construction and maintenance. Sadly, the railway line, and thus the viaduct, ceased to be used in 1965, leaving it as a silent monument to a bygone era of rail travel.
+1Today, the Cannington Viaduct stands as a picturesque ruin and a popular spot for photographers and history enthusiasts. While you cannot walk on top of it, its imposing presence from below and the surrounding landscape make it a worthwhile detour for anyone interested in industrial heritage or simply seeking a unique photo opportunity.
Experiencing the Viaduct Today
For those who enjoy walking and exploring the countryside, the viaduct is a perfect addition to a scenic route. Many visitors incorporate it into circular walks starting from nearby towns like Lyme Regis, enjoying the coastal paths and the historical significance of the area.
Drone enthusiasts also find the viaduct a compelling subject, with aerial footage highlighting its impressive form and its integration into the landscape. +1While direct access to the top is not possible, the experience of viewing and interacting with the Cannington Viaduct from ground level provides a tangible connection to its past. It’s a place that sparks imagination about the steam trains that once thundered across it and the people who relied on this vital transport link.
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