After a brief look at the map and a short drive,we parked up to have a look at what surely must be the most impressive and interesting bridge on the Tiverton Branch Line,the Halberton Aqueduct.The bridge was built in 1848 to carry the Grand Western Canal over the railway and was designed by the famous engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

As already mentioned,the line was built to carry a double track and here you can clearly see that original intention with the bridge's twin arches.However,only one of the arches was ever actually used for the railway.

From the ground the bridge is a very impressive sight,but it is not until you witness the functionality of the bridge from above,that you truly appreciate this remarkable structure.

Click on the buttons to switch between what it used to look like and what it looks like today

To get to the top of the bridge,you can either walk along the canal path until you reach the bridge or you can do as we did,which is just go through a gate near the road where we parked.

Once on top and you see the canal going over the bridge,you have to admire the mind of the Victorian engineer.Standing looking into the water,it's a marvel that you are actually standing on a bridge.The canal is very pretty here and although obviously a mad made structure,there is something very natural about canals that gives you a sense of calm.

Unfortunately dear Christine was not feeling very calm and was having another giddy spell at the height and strangeness of water going over a bridge,so we left the aqueduct to go and have a look at the other nearby bridge.