Cannington Viaduct Revisited
In September 2026, we reopened Cannington Viaduct to the community for the first time since the Axminster to Lyme Regis railway closed in 1965. More than 1,000 people joined us across the viaduct and Uplyme Village Hall, with around 800 taking guided walks onto the bridge itself. For many, it was an emotional reunion with a much-loved landmark — and a weekend to remember. Photo: Mark Derry.
The story of the viaduct
Check out the view
One of the joys of our viaduct weekend was welcoming talented new volunteers to work alongside our regular team. Among them was Nick Wood, whose marketing career includes video production and drone filming. Nick generously put his skills to work for us, creating this 360-degree video of the views from Cannington Viaduct. If you missed the chance to visit — or would love another look — here’s your opportunity. Play the video and drag your finger across the screen to look around and savour the scenery.
A walk back in time
Guided walks from Uplyme Village Hall brought visitors through the countryside to the viaduct, where our guides shared its story. Some groups got thoroughly soaked, but they returned beaming. The chance to step onto the bridge and see the valley from a long-forgotten viewpoint made it all worthwhile.
Memories galore
At Uplyme Village Hall, films, photographs, and displays all brought the old railway back to life. Over tea and cake, visitors exchanged recollections, discovered its stories and enjoyed the company of others who shared their affection for the line.
Something for everyone
Former railwaymen, people who remembered travelling on the line and families discovering it for the first time all helped make the weekend special. Familiar stories found new listeners, and fresh memories were made. This was railway heritage doing what we love best: bringing people together.
Thank you for making it happen
This weekend was possible thanks to the Historical Railways Estate, Axminster Town Council, Devon County Council, Uplyme Parish Council, Cannington Farm and Shapwick Grange Farm. Their permissions, practical help and support opened the way. Alongside them, 50 devoted volunteers guided, welcomed, stewarded and cared for our visitors, keeping everything running with warmth, good humour and remarkable teamwork.
Figures that tell a story
- 61 years since the railway closed
- 50 volunteers giving their energy
- 800 visitors safely onto the viaduct
- 300 more came to the hall
- 2 days of enjoyment
- 1 community brought together
Will we do it again?
The response was overwhelming, with huge demand for another opening. We are working with our partners to explore a repeat, subject to the necessary permissions, and will make an announcement early in 2027. Keep watching — we would love to bring you back!