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Ouse Valley Viaduct | Hidden Gem in England

Updated: Mar 5

This Instagrammable spot was built in 1839, with a length of 450 meters and a height of 29 meters. It has two railway roads and it's on the London to Brighton train route for those travelling in between.


Image of Ouse Valley Viaduct in England
Photo taken by @renihorvath70 via Instagram.

There are 37 arches in total at Ouse Valley Viaduct, making for an impressive spectacle (especially for the gram photo!). But the real highlight is the mesmerising view through the arches underneath the viaduct.

Bit of an architecture marvel with it's quite unique brick layout at the bottom. Can be quite difficult to park if you don't want a long walk from the reservoir car park, which can be quite muddy with any recent rain. – Google Review

In terms of architecture, the bridge is very unique (a whopping 11 million bricks were used for construction!). Despite so many years of visitors and especially the increased amount due to the lockdowns, Ouse Valley Viaduct is still in very good condition and the rail traffic is very heavy.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Ouse Valley Viaduct


1) Where is the Ouse Valley Viaduct located?

The Ouse Valley Viaduct is located near the village of Balcombe in West Sussex, England.


2) What makes the Ouse Valley Viaduct a hidden gem?

The Ouse Valley Viaduct is considered a hidden gem due to its impressive architectural design, scenic location amidst the countryside, and its historical significance as a railway landmark in England.


3) How do I get to the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

Visitors can access the Ouse Valley Viaduct by car or train. The viaduct can be viewed from public footpaths and roads in the area, or visitors can take a scenic train journey on the nearby railway line.


4) Is there an entrance fee to visit the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Ouse Valley Viaduct. It is a publicly accessible structure that can be admired from various viewpoints in the surrounding area.


5) What can I expect to see at the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

The Ouse Valley Viaduct is an impressive railway viaduct constructed of brick and stone arches, spanning the River Ouse and the surrounding valley. Visitors can admire the viaduct's architectural beauty and enjoy panoramic views of the countryside.


6) Are there guided tours available for the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

While there may not be formal guided tours, visitors can explore the area surrounding the viaduct on their own and discover viewpoints that offer the best vantage points for observing the structure.


7) Is the Ouse Valley Viaduct suitable for families and children?

Yes, the Ouse Valley Viaduct is suitable for families and children to visit. It provides an opportunity for children to learn about railway history and engineering while enjoying the scenic beauty of the countryside.


8) Are there facilities or amenities near the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

While there may not be facilities directly at the viaduct itself, nearby villages such as Balcombe may offer amenities such as parking, cafes, and restroom facilities for visitors.


9) What is the best time to visit the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

The Ouse Valley Viaduct can be visited all year-round, but it is particularly scenic during the spring and summer months when the surrounding countryside is lush and green. Additionally, visiting during sunrise or sunset can provide stunning views of the viaduct against the backdrop of the sky.


10) Are there any restrictions or safety precautions for visiting the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

Visitors should exercise caution when exploring the area surrounding the viaduct, especially if walking along nearby roads or footpaths. It's important to stay clear of railway tracks and obey any safety signs or warnings in the area.



Image of Ouse Valley Viaduct in England
Photo taken by @_sam_pang_ via Instagram.

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