Torksey Viaduct
This is the oldest wrought iron box girder bridge in England. Built in 1849, the railway closed in 1959.
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Address:
Lincoln Golf club, Torksey, LN1 2EG
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Visible at all times.
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Visit websiteThis bridge carried the Lincoln branch of the Manchester, Sheffield & Lincolnshire Railway over the river Trent. It was built by Sir John Fowler. When completed the Railway Commissioners refused to permit its use but after four months of negotiation agreed. It opened in 1850.
The construction was of a novel kind. Two 130 ft. box girder spans carried the deck and two tracks. The girders rest on stone abutments and a central pier. On the eastern side the bridge continues over wet ground on a tubular trestle viaduct, originally made of timber.
Closed in 1959, it is listed Grade II * and is part of a cycle track.
By Road: Access is via a footpath from the main road, alongside the bridge abutments where the line formerly crossed the main road. Park on verge in Station Rd, which is at right angles to the A156. in the village of Torksey itself, near a bend in the main road. Cross over A156 and enter via garden gate which gives access to the footpath up some steps.
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Forgotten Relics - Listed Bridges and Viaducts