Nestled in the green landscape of Deighton, near Huddersfield, the Whitacre Mill Viaduct is a silent witness to a bygone era of railway expansion. This impressive, disused railway bridge stands as a testament to the ambitions of the London & North Western Railway and its plan to connect Huddersfield with the Barnsley coal mines via the Kirkburton Branch Line.
A Bridge with a Story
Construction on the viaduct began in March 1865. Despite a partial collapse in February 1866, the viaduct was completed in time for the line's opening in October 1867. Although the grand plan for the railway was never fully realized, the viaduct served a short section of the line until its final closure in December 1971. Today, it stands as a monument to its industrious past, crossing the Huddersfield Broad Canal, the River Colne, and the valley below.
A Path Less Traveled
While the viaduct is largely overgrown on one side, it offers a unique walking experience from the Deighton side. Although challenging to navigate, the path provides a sense of adventure and a connection to the area's history. There are plans by Kirklees Council to transform the viaduct into a greenway, much like the nearby Bradley Viaduct, which would open this piece of history to a wider audience. Until then, it remains a secluded and beautiful spot, waiting to be rediscovered.
The pictures below were taken on the 27th May 2023 with a Nikon d3300.
