The two-arch bridge at Hersham, photographed on 10th May 2009. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

A two-arch bridge takes the Bournemouth main line over a meander in the River Mole between Esher and Hersham.

The four arch viaduct at Hersham, photographed on 10th May 2009. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

The river has been quite extensively straightened and widened, and a short distance further west the railway crosses the main channel on a four-arch viaduct. Both structures are of red brick with a string course. The viaduct has been extensively strengthened and protected with concrete. This is because the main channel is regulated by sluice gates immediately down stream, which can significantly alter the rate of flow in the river and the water level.

Further upstream there are several viaducts in the Leatherhead area.

Five arch viaduct at Leatherhead, photographed on 26th April 2009. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

This five-arch viaduct takes the Leatherhead to Effingham Junction line over the river on a curve. Three arches are over the river, with one either side.

Four arch viaduct at Leatherhead, photographed on 26th April 2009. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

The Leatherhead to Dorking line crosses the River Mole three times. The first viaduct, just south of the junction at Leatherhead, is quite ornate. It is in red brick and has four round-headed arches. Decorations include stone imposts and a string course, arch bands and a roundel of raised brick in each spandrel. The brick balustrade is an attractive feature.

Viaduct near Boxhill & Westhumble, photographed on 26th April 2009. photograph by Gregory Beecroft

The other two are quite similar, three-arch viaducts, one just south of Mickleham Tunnel and the other a short distance north of Boxhill & Westhumble station. Both have skewed arches. The photograph shows that near Boxhill & Westhumble.