Causey Arch

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If you're looking for a unique tourist attraction in England, you should definitely check out Causey Arch Bridge. This historic bridge, located in County Durham in North East England, is a marvel of engineering that has stood the test of time for over 200 years. Here's what you need to know about this impressive structure.

History of Causey Arch Bridge

The Causey Arch Bridge was built in 1725-26 by a local colliery owner, Ralph Wood, to transport coal from the Durham coalfields to the River Tyne. It was designed by a local architect, Benjamin Latrobe, who would later go on to design the United States Capitol in Washington D.C. The bridge was constructed using stone, and it spans 90 feet across the Causey Burn valley, standing at a height of 100 feet.

At the time of its construction, the Causey Arch Bridge was the largest single-span bridge in the world and is still the oldest surviving railway bridge in the world. The bridge was in use for over 150 years until it was finally replaced by a newer, more modern bridge in the 1960s.

Visiting Causey Arch Bridge

Today, Causey Arch Bridge is a popular tourist attraction and is a great spot for a family day out. Visitors can explore the area around the bridge, take a walk through the surrounding countryside, and learn about the history of the bridge at the nearby Causey Arch Inn.

One of the best ways to see the bridge is by taking a walk along the Causey Arch Trail. This trail takes visitors through the beautiful countryside surrounding the bridge and provides stunning views of the bridge itself. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and is suitable for walkers of all ages and abilities.

For those who want a closer look at the bridge, there is a small car park located near the bridge, where visitors can park their car and take a walk down to the bridge itself. The bridge is open to pedestrians, so visitors can walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

If you're interested in learning more about the history of the bridge, the nearby Causey Arch Inn is a great place to start. The inn features a small museum that tells the story of the bridge and its construction, as well as the history of the local area. The inn also serves food and drinks, so visitors can enjoy a meal or a pint of ale after a day exploring the bridge and its surroundings.

Conclusion

Overall, the Causey Arch Bridge is a must-see tourist attraction for anyone visiting County Durham. With its impressive history and stunning views, it's no wonder that the bridge has become such a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a beautiful place to take a walk, the Causey Arch Bridge is definitely worth a visit.

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Things to do nearby

Causey Arch is a stunning historical landmark located in County Durham, England. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area, attracting visitors from all over the world. The arch is an engineering marvel and is considered to be one of the oldest surviving railway bridges in the world. Apart from the arch itself, there are many other interesting places and things to do in the vicinity. In this article, we will explore some of the top attractions nearby Causey Arch from a tourist perspective.

Causey Arch

Let's start with the star attraction itself. The Causey Arch is a spectacular feat of engineering that was built in the early 19th century to transport coal from local mines to the River Tyne. The arch spans 100 feet and is 80 feet tall, making it an impressive sight to behold. The arch is open to the public, and you can walk along the top of it to take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Beamish Museum

Just a short drive from Causey Arch is the famous Beamish Museum. This award-winning attraction is a living museum that transports visitors back in time to the North East of England in the early 1900s. The museum is spread over 300 acres and includes a recreated village, town, and colliery. You can ride on vintage trams and buses, explore historic buildings, and watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades.

Tanfield Railway

Another must-visit attraction for railway enthusiasts is the Tanfield Railway. This heritage railway runs steam and diesel locomotives through the stunning countryside between Sunniside and East Tanfield. The railway is the oldest working railway in the world, and a ride on one of its vintage carriages is an experience not to be missed.

Durham Cathedral

Just a short drive from Causey Arch is the historic city of Durham. The city is home to the magnificent Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered to be one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. The cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is home to the Shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of the Venerable Bede. You can also take a guided tour of the cathedral and learn about its fascinating history.

Durham University Botanic Garden

If you're looking for a more relaxing way to spend your time, then a visit to the Durham University Botanic Garden is highly recommended. The garden is spread over 25 acres and is home to a stunning collection of plants from all over the world. You can wander through the themed gardens, explore the glasshouses, and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Final Thoughts

Causey Arch and the surrounding area offer a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From the stunning engineering feat of the arch itself to the living history of Beamish Museum and the tranquil beauty of the Durham University Botanic Garden, there is something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to County Durham, be sure to put Causey Arch and its neighboring attractions on your must-visit list.