Helmdon Viaduct

Flight Video

Additional Information

Helmdon Viaduct was a creation of Walter Scott & Co. and formed part of the Great Central Railway's construction contract no.5, covering the section from Woodford to Brackley. Opened to goods traffic in July 1898, this nine-arch, brick structure on 'the last main line' sits just west of the village which give it its name. Trains on the route came to a grinding halt in September 1966.

Helmdon, situated approximately 4 miles north of Brackley in South Northamptonshire, is divided by the River Tove. Its name originates from Old English, signifying "Helma's Valley." The Domesday Book mentions that Robert, Count of Mortain, owned a manor called "Elmedene," and in the 12th century, William de Torewelle (Turville) possessed the manor of "Helmendene." The name underwent further changes and was documented as "Helmydene" around 1340.

While primarily recognized for its agricultural connections, Helmdon gained renown for manual lace production, with the earliest known record dating back to 1718. The village hosted lace-making schools that instructed young girls in this craft from an early age. The industry reached its zenith in the parish during the mid-19th century. The 1851 Census reported that 94 women and girls, comprising over 30% of all female residents in Helmdon, were employed in lace-making. Remarkably, some of the youngest workers were under the age of 10.

Jonny flew here on Saturday, August 26, 2023, reaching a maximum altitude of 165 ft (50 m) and there were no airspace restrictions in place at the time of the flight.