The archaeological remains around Ribblehead Viaduct on the Settle-Carlisle railway are to benefit from modern technology.
With a new audio download from the Friends website, visitors can guide themselves on a short walking tour by using an iPod or other MP3 player.
Built between 1869 and 1875, the Ribblehead viaduct carries the railway over an expanse of wild moorland which once housed thousands of navvies. The footprint of their shanty town and construction camp can still be seen today, including a brickworks, limekiln, tramways, engine shed inspection pit, and even a smallpox hospital.
The self-guided audio tour has been produced by the Friends of the Settle-Carlisle Line, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, and Drystone Radio.
It can be downloaded free of charge from the Friends website at
www.settle-carlisle.com/ ribbleheadtour
An accompanying map can also be printed off showing the route and points of interest. The Friends are exploring the possibility of loaning MP3s to visitors to Ribblehead Station Heritage Centre.
The distance covered by the trail is about two miles and can be over quite rough ground, so it is advisable to have good footwear and waterproof clothing.
Friends walks co-ordinator Ruth Evans said: “We were very keen to embrace this new technology, and we believe it is the first time it has been used in the railway world.
"Ribblehead is an ideal location; full of interest, amid spectacular scenery,and with a clear need for interpretation of the visible remains on the ground.”
Karen Griffiths from the National Park said: "We decided to try and reduce the number of new interpretation boards because of the visual impact they have on the environment, and instead we decided to try virtual interpretation."
Drew Haley of Northern Rail welcomed the new initiative, saying: “It shows real innovation in mixing modern technology with history and will bring this iconic site to life for many more people
The Friends also produce an all-year round programme of walks led by experienced guides, details of which are available on the website at
www.settle-carlisle.co.uk/walks
or on a leaflet obtainable at stations, tourists information offices or with an s.a.e. from Walks Co—ordinator, 49 Kings Mill Lane, Settle BD24 9FD.
Information from Pete Shaw, Foscla.