The Settle-Carlisle railway is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering and a vital transport artery for the Three Peaks region. The 73-mile line runs through some of the most spectacular scenery in England, climbing over the Pennines between the market towns of Settle and Carlisle.
Ribblehead Viaduct
The Ribblehead Viaduct is the most iconic landmark on the Three Peaks route. With its 24 massive stone arches rising 104 feet (32m) above the moor, it was built by over 3,000 navvies between 1870 and 1875.
Today, it serves as both a vital crossing point on the walking route between Pen-y-ghent and Whernside, and a stunning viewpoint in its own right. The viaduct is best seen from the B6255 road or from the path approaching from Horton-in-Ribblesdale.
Travelling by Train
The railway provides a practical and scenic way to access the Three Peaks. Key stations for walkers include:
- Settle - the main service town, well-connected to Leeds
- Horton-in-Ribblesdale - the traditional start of the walk
- Ribblehead - at the foot of the viaduct, ideal for anti-clockwise walkers
The journey itself is worth the trip. The line climbs from the gentle Ribble Valley to the wild moorland of Blea Moor, passing through tunnels, over viaducts, and alongside some of the most remote countryside in England.
History
The line was built between 1869 and 1876 at enormous human cost. Many of the navvies who built the railway, and their families, are buried in the churchyard at Chapel-le-Dale. The line was threatened with closure in the 1980s but was saved by a sustained public campaign and is now one of the most popular heritage railways in Britain.
Visiting
The railway runs regular services throughout the year. Special heritage trains and charter services also operate, particularly in summer. The Ribblehead station has a small visitor centre with information about the railway's construction and history.
For transport information and connections, see our Getting Here guide.