How to visit the Ribblehead Viaduct
The Ribblehead Viaduct walk in North Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Dales is a wonderful and exciting opportunity to see an unforgettable feat of Victorian engineering. It is so impressive to think about how it was constructed.
Formerly known as the Batty Moss viaduct, you can see 24 massive stone arches that are 400m (440 yards) long and that rise an impressive 32 metres (104ft) over the moors.
It was designed and built by John Sydney Crossley, chief engineer of the Midland railway, and construction began in 1870. It opened 5 years later in 1875.
Unfortunately, roughly a hundred navvies (railway workers) lost their lives by building the railway, fighting each other and diseases spreading, such as smallpox. They lived in ‘shanty towns’ near the Viaduct, and if you look over the moors, you can see some lumps where they used to live. The area has become a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
There are memorials along the line to commemorate those who lost their lives. These are at St Mary’s Church in Outhgill and St Leonards’ Church in Chapel-le-dale.
Today, the Grade II listed viaduct carries the Settle Carlisle railway line across Batty Moss. You can do many things, which we outline in this Guide. You can walk underneath (it is one of the best walks in Yorkshire), around or to Whernside. You can take the train and go across it or simply watch the trains glide across.
The Ribblehead Viaduct walk is mostly on a well-maintained path, which is easy to follow, and we outline the details and directions below. Are you ready to see an incredible construction? We were blown away!
How to get to the Ribblehead Viaduct
It is found in North Yorkshire, just across the border from Cumbria. It is near Ribblehead Train Station and is 45km from Skipton and 42km from Kendal.
If you travel by car, you can follow the Google Maps directions to the car parking areas or use the postcode below.
Ribblehead Viaduct postcode: LA6 3AU (remember, postcodes may not be accurate for rural locations).
It is also possible to visit the Viaduct via public transport by taking the train that goes to Ribblehead Station on the railway. It’s a charming station with a tiny store selling memorabilia and the Visitor Centre with exhibits about the past of the line and the battle to keep it in operation. Alternatively, you can get a taxi from Settle with Settle Taxis.
Ribblehead Viaduct Webcam
We love that there is a webcam that you can use before you go. It is great to get an idea of what you will be able to see and what the weather is like too!
You can see the webcam here.
Ribblehead Viaduct Car Park
Whilst there is no official Ribblehead Viaduct car park. You can park on the main road, where the B6255 (Blea Moor Road) and the B6479 roads meet. There is currently no charge to park here.
Remember to park sensibly and not to block any roads, as emergency vehicles may need to get past. There are no toilet facilities. The nearest public toilets are in Selside.
Top Tips for visiting
- There are no toilets here – visit before you go!
- Head to the Station Inn after for a pint!
- Most of the path is on well-made tarmac paths, and we saw some people walk in trainers. If you are heading onto the moors, wear walking boots!
- Take all litter home with you. Remember to leave no trace.
- Aim to visit when there is a train going over the Viaduct! Please see the train times in our FAQ at the end of this post!
- Get there early to secure a car parking spot! They are limited!
- If we were to do the walk again, we would do the walk anti-clockwise, to walk under the viaduct at the end and walk up and around first. It is because you will have better views of the viaduct. However, the wind was not on our side when we last visited, and as the area is exposed, we decided not to walk against the wind!
Ribblehead Viaduct Walk Directions in 3 Steps
It is a guide to the short walk you can do. Unfortunately, the weather was not on our side when we last visited, so we opted for a shorter walk around the Viaduct. It was the perfect Sunday stroll.
Ribblehead Viaduct Walk Details:
Distance: 4.4km/ 2.7 miles
Elevation: 72m
Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 30-minutes
Map: OS Explorer OL2
Step 1: From the road to the Viaduct
From the road, take a right at the Yorkshire Three Peaks public footpath sign and continue straight along the gravel track in the direction of Ribblehead Viaduct.
Follow the gravel track as it curves around to go underneath the Viaduct. You will be able to see an information point and a cairn to mark the structure.
Step 2: From the Viaduct to the Houses
Walk underneath and continue heading straight as it curves around. Go through the metal gate and continue up the gravel road.
Continue past Winterscales farm, through the wooden gate next to the cattle grid, cross Winterscales beck and turn right to walk along the paved road.
Go through the next metal gate and turn immediately right to head on the footpath road to Whernside. Continue walking between the two stone walls.
Step 3: From the Houses to the Car Park via the Viaduct
Walk past the houses and over the bridge, following the path uphill through the wooden gate. Don’t go uphill here but take the left-hand path, which curves around the hill. You will have to cross the beck, but it’s slightly easier the further you go.
Go through the wooden gate, under the bridge (tunnel) and turn right to head in the direction of Yorkshire Three Peaks, Public footpath, Ribblehead.
Follow the path, go through the wooden gate, and continue towards the Ribblehead viaduct.
Keep going down, and eventually, you will join the path you came on. From here, take a left and head back to the car. You can always head to the Station Inn pub for a drink after, they have some accommodation too!
Ribblehead Viaduct walk completely!
If you wish to extend your walk, there is a wonderful route to Whernside!
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Harry Potter filmed at Ribblehead Viaduct?
No, it is incorrectly thought that Harry Potter was filmed at Ribblehead Viaduct. The place it was filmed was Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland, and if you want to visit, we have a full guide to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which includes everything you need to know to visit!
Is there a Ribblehead Viaduct Steam Train?
Yes, there is a steam train, and it is iconic to see. However, this is not that common as there is no regular steam-hauled service. But, you could see a special guest appearance by the legendary Flying Scotsmen and one of the numerous steam-hauled trips throughout the summer.
Many hillsides surround Ribblehead viaduct Mallerstang and other viewpoint places throughout the Eden Valley dotted by avid photographers and enthusiasts looking to catch the perfect shot, as the Viaduct is the longest structure on the Settle to Carlise line.
Please look at the Settle to Carlise’s website here to see when the next Steam train is.
What are the Ribblehead Viaduct Train Times?
If you want to know when the regular service runs, please check the Timetable page and go to the appropriate date. The times change throughout the year.
Can I take my dog?
Dogs are welcome but should be on a short lead by the farmland. You should also pick up after your dogs.
What is the weather like at Ribblehead Viaduct?
We usually check the Met Office – Ribblehead and BBC Ribblehead.
We hope you have a great time! If you are interested in visitng Yorkshire, please read our guides below:
Places to visit in Leeds, UK – The Complete 3 Day Guide
Goathland to Grosmont Walk – An Exciting 3 Stage Route
11 Best Things to do in Knaresborough, Yorkshire
Photo Credits: averagelives.com
We want to stress that ‘Average Lives’ cannot be held liable for any injuries or accidents that may occur while walking our routes. We strongly advise that you wear proper footwear to reduce the risk of injuries, and carry a paper map and compass to ensure your safety while walking. You can read more on our About Page.
