A costly construction

We were fascinated to see the Ribblehead Viaduct this afternoon while we were driving around the spectacular Yorkshire Dales National Park. Construction of the viaduct began in late 1869 by Midland Railway. Its construction was necessitated by the challenging terrain of the intended railway route. It has 24 massive stone arches 104 feet (32 metres) above the moor. A large workforce of up to 2,300 men built the structure. Most lived in shanty towns set up near the base. Over 100 men lost their lives during its construction from  accidents, fights or smallpox outbreaks.  The railway had to pay for an expansion of the local graveyard. 


The viaduct was opened for passenger services in May 1876.