Guided Visit Castlefield Viaduct - Manchester's Sky Park
Overview
Today we get to tour Castlefield Viaduct, one of the latest projects by the National Trust described as a striking Victorian-era steel viaduct, on it's way to becoming a green ‘sky park’ in the heart of historic Manchester.
This 330-metre long Grade II-listed viaduct sits in Castlefield, the oldest part of the city of Manchester. Built in 1892 by Heenan and Froude, the engineers who worked on the iconic Blackpool Tower, the viaduct was used to carry heavy rail traffic in and out of the Great Northern Warehouse until 1969.
Since then Castlefield Viaduct had stood unused, though regularly maintained by National Highways. Now it’s time for it to reclaim its place in the heart of this vibrant city, celebrating its part in Manchester’s past, present and future.
The elevated park has been closed since December to allow time for the team of National Trust gardeners, volunteers, and community partners to prune, plant and create new areas on the giant 330-metre steel viaduct.
It has just reopened featuring some new additions to Manchester’s sky park such as new partner gardens by Hulme Community Garden Centre and Sow the City.
Location & Itinerary
We meet at the entrance to Castlefield Viaduct
Directions by foot: The Viaduct is close to Deansgate train station and Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink station.
From Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink station - Use the crossing to access the footpath that runs to the left, adjacent to the tramline. The Viaduct is located at the end of Manchester Central car park.
From Deansgate train station – from the upper walkway use the marked crossing point to get to the other side of the tram lines. Follow the footpath that runs to the left. The Viaduct is located at the end of Manchester Central car park.
From Liverpool Road – the viaduct is located close to Castlefield Urban Heritage Park, the Roman Fort, Duke Street and Castlefield Bowl. Please note that access from ground level at this point is via a 50-step stairwell. If you require lift access, please follow directions to Deansgate station to take you up to Viaduct level.
Car Parking: Parking is not available on site. Pay & Display car parking is available nearby.
Postcode: The postcode provided is for the NCP Car Park which is below Deansgate Castlefield Station - please follow the directions given to access Castlefield Viaduct.
NOTE: You might find the easiest way to find the venue is by using this link (what3words) https://w3w.co/pint.rush.shelf and navigating with google maps or Apple Maps
| Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Member National Trust Donation | £5.00 | Available |
Not enough spaces left for you? Join the waitlist
Host & Everything Else
Gallery
