Historical Railways Estate - National Highways

The Historical Railways Estate (HRE) is a collection of over 3,100 structures and assets which were once part of Britain's rail network.

Since 2013 we've been responsible for looking after it on behalf of the Department for Transport. Many of the structures were built more than 100 years ago.

Find out more about who we are, what we do and why in this video with our team.

10 years of caring for the HRE

As we mark a decade of managing the Estate, a look back at some memorable moments.

10 years of caring for the HRE

Latest updates

Latest makeover

Wheatley Viaduct

Extensive restoration and repair work on the impressive Wheatley Viaduct is now complete.

View all news and updates

In the headlines

Millers Dale Viaduct

This Grade II listed bridge in the heart of the Peak District is undergoing a major programme of maintenance work.

Spotlight on ...

Minding the gap on biodiversity: Autumn update

Find out how we’re getting on with our pioneering research project.

Find out more

About the HRE

Find out more about the history, composition and locations of the HRE.

Maintenance and assessment

Our team of engineers uses well-established methods to maintain the HRE.

Working with stakeholders

We work closely with local authorities, charities and other organisations.

Programme of work and assessment reports

View our forward programme of maintenance work and our assessment reports.

Decision making and handover process

How we work with partners to find new uses for the structures and bring them back into public use.

Our approach to infill

On occasions we may need to infill a structure for safety reasons.

Biodiversity

The HRE is a haven for many species of native wildlife.

Project profiles

See the breadth of work happening across the nation’s former railway structures right now.