Rob Higgins shows how taking the aerial route gives unique insights into the history and workings of Britain’s railways. The marvels of Victorian engineering in their construction, their relationships to the canals they replaced as the main arteries of transport, and the communities and industry they spawned along their length can all be seen in detail. This book flies from the Scottish Highlands to Cornwall; from marshalling yards in the centre of the UK to lines hugging cliffs and beaches. All the viaducts on the ‘top’ section of the Settle & Carlisle line are featured, together with many other viaducts and bridges, including the swing bridges in the Norfolk Broads. Lineside industries are seen, from a huge malting complex in East Anglia to our fast-disappearing coal-powered power stations.