Friends of Bennerley Viaduct

Who we are

The Friends of Bennerley Viaduct are the charity which manages Grade II* Listed Bennerley Viaduct, an icon of Victorian civil engineering and a remarkable survivor from the golden age of the railways. 

Built in 1878 by the Great Northern Railway, and crossing the Erewash Valley, and Nottinghamshire/Derbyshire border, near Ilkeston, the viaduct is one of only two Victorian wrought iron viaducts still standing, and is the longest and most well known of the two. 

Now open for walking, cycling and exploring, the long term vision of the Friends is to create a sustainable heritage hub, not only bringing visitors to the area, but acting as a catalyst for local pride and investment. FoBV is a small charity with big ambitions, with a remarkable track record in achieving funding, press coverage, and support. The 'Iron Giant' of the Erewash Valley, is well loved, and the Friends intend to create a visitor attraction worthy of the passion local people for the structure. 

In 2022-2023, the charity benefits from 3 part time staff, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. There is a hope to continue to fund staff roles, but the charity is dependent on its volunteers, at all levels of the organisation: for anyone getting involved, the more hands on you are, the better! 

The viaduct is owned by Railway Paths Ltd. and leased by FoBV. Our current work includes the construction of an eastern ramp to allow access for all, revamping our digital presence and marketing, strategic planning for the construction of a visitor centre, and running a programme of engagement activities, often in partnership with local community stakeholders.