[1] The viaduct was constructed using cast iron and consists of six ribs bolted together to form two segments, spanning the River Nene in three arches.

It is supported by two piers in the water, which each consist of three pairs of fluted columns; these rest on caissons that are sunk into the river.

The bridge has a plaque that claims that the Nene Viaduct is the last surviving cast-iron structure on a main railway line in Britain.

The bridge has been strengthened several times through its history, including with steel ties in 1910 and additional work in 1914, but continues to carry high-speed trains today.

[1][2] The railway line was quadrupled in 1924, at which time a second bridge was constructed alongside the Nene Viaduct.