Longdon-on-Tern Aqueduct
Explore the world's oldest cast iron aqueduct, a pioneering feat of Thomas Telford, and walk in its historic trough.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos.
Longdon-on-Tern Aqueduct
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the world's oldest cast iron aqueduct, a pioneering feat of Thomas Telford, and walk in its historic trough.
"A near-lost piece of incredible history - Thomas Telford's first ever iron aqueduct!"
🚗 Parking Advice
Limited layby parking or use The Tayleurs Arms pub. Arrive early for the best spots.
🚶♀️ Walk the Trough
Experience history by walking in the aqueduct's trough – a unique and free activity!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iron Aqueduct Trough
Aqueduct Trough
Walk directly in the historic trough where canal boats once sailed. A unique perspective on engineering.
Thomas Telford's Innovation
Aqueduct Structure
Marvel at the pioneering cast iron design, a testament to 18th-century civil engineering prowess.
Scenic Dee Valley Views
Surrounding Area
Enjoy the picturesque landscape of the Dee Valley, a beautiful setting for this historical marvel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing This Historic Gem
A Glimpse into Engineering History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Advice
Limited layby parking or use The Tayleurs Arms pub. Arrive early for the best spots.
🚶♀️ Walk the Trough
Experience history by walking in the aqueduct's trough – a unique and free activity!
♿ Accessibility Note
Narrow gates mean limited wheelchair access. The aqueduct is visible from the road.
ℹ️ Limited On-Site Info
Bring your own research; there's not much historical info at the site itself.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Advice
Limited layby parking or use The Tayleurs Arms pub. Arrive early for the best spots.
🚶♀️ Walk the Trough
Experience history by walking in the aqueduct's trough – a unique and free activity!
♿ Accessibility Note
Narrow gates mean limited wheelchair access. The aqueduct is visible from the road.
ℹ️ Limited On-Site Info
Bring your own research; there's not much historical info at the site itself.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the unique engineering and surrounding natural beauty. Best light in the morning.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Longdon-on-Tern Aqueduct as a significant historical site, particularly for its status as the world's oldest cast iron aqueduct and the unique experience of walking in its trough. The free access and scenic location are also highlighted as positives. However, some note the limited on-site information and accessibility challenges.
"Worth seeing for those interested in history of civil engineering. The trough of the aqueduct is a model for the Pontcysyllte aqueduct, and you can actually walk in the trough to see how it is built.
You can park in a layby next to the entrance to the path (space for some 3 cars) or visit The Tayleurs Arms in Longdon with ample parking just a few hundred yards down the road from the entrance.
No wheelchair access due to narrow gates, but the aqueduct is well visible from the road with pretty solid tarmac footpath."
Przemek Dolowy
"Great historic Aqueduct had to stop here while passing."
lomax lawson
"Loved it here. Well worth a visit"
Creation In Motion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The aqueduct is accessible via a layby with limited parking or a short walk from The Tayleurs Arms pub. The path involves crossing a field and has narrow gates, making it challenging for wheelchairs.
Yes, there's a small layby for a few cars near the entrance, or you can park at The Tayleurs Arms pub a short distance away. Arriving early is recommended due to limited space.
Information on direct public transport is scarce. It's best reached by car. Check local bus routes to nearby villages like Longdon and plan for a walk.
Follow the signs from the road. You'll likely cross a field to reach the structure. Be prepared for uneven terrain.
While you can cycle to the area, the path to the aqueduct itself might be narrow and involve crossing fields, so it's best to park and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Longdon-on-Tern Aqueduct is free. There are no admission fees associated with viewing this historic site.
The aqueduct is an outdoor historical site and is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee. The aqueduct is a historical monument that can be viewed freely.
Official tours are not commonly advertised. However, you can explore the site independently and walk in the trough.
The main restriction is accessibility due to narrow gates. Otherwise, it's an open historical site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk in the historic trough, admire the cast iron engineering, and enjoy the surrounding Dee Valley scenery. It's a great spot for history buffs.
Yes, you can walk in the trough of the aqueduct, which is a unique experience as the canal was demolished years ago.
Information at the site is minimal. It's recommended to research Thomas Telford and the aqueduct's history beforehand.
It's the world's oldest surviving cast iron aqueduct and a pioneering work by Thomas Telford, influencing later designs like Pontcysyllte.
The trough is generally safe to walk in, but be mindful of your footing as it's an old structure. It's not recommended for those with severe vertigo.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique perspective from within the trough, the impressive cast iron arches, and the scenic Dee Valley. Early morning light is ideal.
Drone regulations vary. Always check current UK drone laws and local restrictions before flying near historical sites.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the aqueduct and its surroundings. A standard lens will also work well for details.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Be respectful of the historical site and any other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer shadows, enhancing the textures of the ironwork and the landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good idea to supplement the visit with some prior research on Thomas Telford and aqueducts to make the history more engaging for younger minds. The surrounding Dee Valley also offers opportunities for a picnic or a short walk, making it a pleasant outing for families who appreciate historical sites and a bit of outdoor exploration.
🏛️ History Buffs & Engineering Enthusiasts
While on-site interpretation is minimal, this site is a prime example of pioneering 18th-century infrastructure. It's a precursor to more famous structures like Pontcysyllte, offering a deeper understanding of Telford's design evolution. Researching the aqueduct's context before your visit will greatly enhance the experience, allowing you to fully grasp its historical significance.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Road-Trippers
Combine your visit with a stop at The Tayleurs Arms for refreshments or explore the picturesque Dee Valley. The unique experience of walking in the aqueduct's trough is a memorable highlight that can be enjoyed in a relatively short amount of time, making it ideal for those on the move.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Thomas Telford
Visitors can still walk within the aqueduct's trough, offering a unique and tangible connection to its past. This experience allows one to appreciate the scale and construction methods firsthand. While the canal it served has long since been demolished, the aqueduct itself has survived, a remarkable feat of engineering and preservation. The site, though lacking extensive interpretive signage, provides a powerful glimpse into the industrial revolution and the ingenuity of its engineers.
It's important to note that while the aqueduct is a historical marvel, its accessibility is limited. The path to reach it can be uneven, and narrow gates pose a challenge for wheelchair users. However, the visual impact and historical significance are undeniable, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in civil engineering history or the industrial heritage of Britain.
Visiting and Experiencing the Aqueduct
One of the most compelling aspects of visiting is the opportunity to walk within the trough where canal boats once navigated. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the aqueduct's construction and its former function. It's a chance to literally step back in time and appreciate the engineering that made such feats possible.
When planning your visit, consider the time of day for the best photographic opportunities. The surrounding Dee Valley provides a scenic backdrop, and capturing the interplay of light on the cast iron structure can be particularly rewarding. While there are no entry fees, the limited parking and accessibility considerations are important factors to keep in mind for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit