Meldon Viaduct

Towering high above the dramatic West Okement Valley on the north-western edge of Dartmoor National Park, Meldon Viaduct is one of the most striking industrial landmarks on Dartmoor.

Built in 1874 by the London and South Western Railway, the viaduct was constructed to carry the railway line between Okehampton and Plymouth, crossing the deep and rugged gorge carved by the River Okement. At the time, this was a major engineering achievement — a bold statement of Victorian ambition in one of the wildest landscapes in southern England.

The original structure was made from wrought iron and masonry, but increasing train weights and wear led to major strengthening and partial rebuilding in the early 20th century. The western side was rebuilt in steel in 1923, creating the unusual double-structure appearance seen today — one side older lattice ironwork, the other later steel reinforcement.

At around 151 metres (495 ft) long and roughly 37 metres (120 ft) above the valley floor, Meldon Viaduct offers spectacular views across the moorland and reservoir below. Standing on it today, you can feel both the exposure and the grandeur of Victorian engineering.

For decades, steam trains crossed this high route carrying passengers, freight, and granite from nearby quarries. The line eventually declined, and regular railway services over the viaduct ended in the late 1960s. Rather than falling into ruin, the structure found a new life.

Today, Meldon Viaduct forms part of the popular Granite Way cycle and walking route, allowing visitors to cross safely on foot or by bike while enjoying some of the finest elevated views in Devon. It has become a gateway to walks around Meldon Reservoir, the West Okement Valley, and the northern tors of Dartmoor.

Iron viaduct

Deep gorge

Railway heritage remains