Castlefield Viaduct in Manchester
Set in the heart of industrial Manchester, the National Trust has recently opened up this Grade II-listed viaduct that offers up unique views over the city.
Billed as the High Line of Manchester, Castlefield Viaduct has been transformed into a useable sky-park space that’s open to the public FREE of charge. Having transformed this 330 metre disused viaduct into an elevated park, this £1.8 million renovation project is both interesting from a historical & an architectural perspective plus opens up a new public space. We popped along recently to take a look at what’s available at this latest National Trust project.
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Entrance to Castlefield Viaduct
Castlefield Viaduct
At Castlefield Viaduct you have the option of pre-booking a FREE guided visit or make use of a FREE walk-up visit that’s available each afternoon. Tours run most morning and should be pre-booked in advance to avoid disappointment although, if spaces permit, you can join on the day. The tour gives you a brief overview of the industrial history, renovation work, landscape & planting undertaken before allowing you to enjoy the surroundings at your leisure. Whilst billed as a 30 minute tour, ours lasted no longer than 10 minutes so more of an introduction than any in-depth exploration but does mean morning visits can offer you a quieter experience.
FREE walk up sessions run each afternoon, between 1pm & 3.30pm, (last entry 3.45) that offers complementary access without the need to book in advance. Worth noting that during busy periods, there may be a short wait to gain entry.
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Views from Castlefield Viaduct
Castlefield Viaduct
Built in 1892 by Heenan and Froude, the engineers who worked on Blackpool Tower, you’ll quickly see some similarities between the two designs particularly the iconic steel criss-cross design that offer up some great views over the city. Whilst the structure is short in length, (330m in total), you’ll have a unique opportunity to explore part of the structure and learn more about the viaduct’s history before taking in views over Manchester that eclipse both it’s industrial heritage & more recent transformation.
From your elevated position, you’ll look down on cobbled streets, views over the canal and take in some of the remaining industrial buildings in the area. Initially the planting has been left to nature, giving you the best perspective of the structure in its original form before branching out to a range of planting displays along the structure.
There is an interesting events space sitting towards the back of the restoration that lends itself well to a range of recreational options. Within, you’ll be able to view more of the disused viaduct that has yet to be transformed, where you’ll be asked your views to help shape the longer-term future of the project. Funding is currently in place until 2024 so they’re keen to capture your thoughts for the future of this urban park.
Castlefield Viaduct; Top Tips
1. Castlefield Viaduct is a free of charge experience. Whether you book for a tour or opt for a walk-in session, entry is free although donations are welcome.
2. For those planning to take a tour, it is recommended that you book in advance as spaces are limited. To make a booking, head over at Castlefield Viaduct.
3. The viaduct is open to walk-in’s every afternoon between 1 & 3.30pm, (last entry 3.45pm).
4. There are limited facilities in place – there are onsite toilets, although no lockers or refreshments available.
5. Look out for events running throughout the year that provide differing perspectives of the sky park from evening celebrations to a range of talks.
6. The viaduct is located close to the Museum of Science and Industry so a great option for those already in the area.
Castlefield Viaduct Planting
Nature at Castlefield Viaduct
