British narrow-gauge railways

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File:Tal-Y-Llyn Dolgoch Abergwynolwn 1951.jpg
Steam locomotive Dolgoch in its first year of preservation service on the Talyllyn Railway, the first volunteer-run heritage railway in the world

There were more than a thousandScript error: No such module "Unsubst". British narrow-gauge railways ranging from large, historically significant common carriers to small, short-lived industrial railways. Many notable events in British railway history happened on narrow-gauge railways including the first use of steam locomotives, the first public railway and the first preserved railway.

History

Early railways: before 1865

File:Surrey Iron Railway watercolour.jpg
The Surrey Iron Railway, one of the earliest public railways

The earliest railways were crude wooden trackways used in coal mines to guide wooden tubs. Because of the restricted loading gauge of the tunnels and the need for loaded tubs to be light enough to be pushed by one man, these railways were almost all narrow-gauge. These underground lines often had short above-ground sections as well.

After the start of the Industrial Revolution it became possible to create railways with iron tracks and wheels, which reduced the friction involved in moving wagons, and made longer horse-hauled trains possible. These could move more material over longer distances, allowing the construction of railways from mines and quarries to transshipment points on rivers, canals and the coast. The earliest narrow-gauge railways that were more than internal mine or quarry systems were all horse-drawn industrial railways. Prominent examples include: the Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Little Eaton Gangway of 1793; the Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Lake Lock Rail Road of 1796; the Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Penrhyn Railroad of 1801; and the Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Surrey Iron Railway of 1803. The Lake Lock Rail Road is recognized as the world's first public railway.[1]

By the start of the 19th century, steam engine technology had developed to the point where steam locomotives were being proposed. In 1804, Richard Trevithick demonstrated the first locomotive-hauled railway in the world: the Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Penydarren Tramway in south Wales.[2] This first use of locomotives was a short-lived experiment, but in 1812, the Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Middleton Railway in Leeds became the first in the world to make commercial use of steam locomotives.[3]

By the start of the 19th century, steam technology developed rapidly in the early 19th century, allowing smaller locomotives to haul more goods. The horse-drawn Ffestiniog Railway opened in 1836 to connect the slate quarries at Blaenau Ffestiniog with the coastal port of Porthmadog. The traffic on the line quickly grew to the point where the horses could no longer haul the empty slate wagons back to the quarries quickly enough to meet demand. In 1863, steam locomotives were introduced on the Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge railway, with passenger services following in 1865. This was the first steam operated railway providing both freight and passenger services on such a small gauge and it proved the model for the introduction of narrow-gauge railways across the world.[4]

In 1846, the British Parliament passed the Gauges Act that established Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". as the standard gauge for Britain.[5] After the Gauges Act, most of the railway track laid in Great Britain was to standard gauge. However many minor railways, both public and industrial, were built to narrower gauges. These lines either followed local traditions or were built in locations where the smaller size of the railway proved more economical.

The boom years: 1865–1914

File:Charles at Penrhyn Castle (geograph 2157370).jpg
Locomotive Charles of the Penrhyn Quarry Railway, seen preserved at Penrhyn Castle Museum
File:Welshpool to Llanfair Caereinion railway line (12989519473).jpg
The Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway opened in 1903. It included this section running through Welshpool town
File:Comparison of British track gauges.svg
Comparison of common British narrow track gauges (not shown is the 3 ft gauge used on the Isle of Man)

The success of the Ffestiniog Railway triggered a boom in the construction of narrow-gauge railways, not just in Britain but around the world.[6] In the United Kingdom, the centre of narrow-gauge construction was North Wales. The mountains of the north held large quantities of slate and their narrow valleys and steep hillsides meant that the smaller narrow-gauge railways were cost effective. The major slate mining regions at Bethesda, Llanberis, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Corris all developed multiple railways to serve the quarries. Some of these lines, like the Ffestiniog Railway, the Corris Railway and the Talyllyn Railway were common carriers, while others like the Penrhyn Quarry Railway and the Padarn Railway were industrial lines.

Outside Wales, other industries started to use narrow-gauge railways to move freight, notably ironstone, limestone, china clay, brick clay and metals. Many common carrier lines were built: most of the railways on the Isle of Man were narrow-gaugeTemplate:Dashmostly Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge. A number of railways were built to connect standard-gauge railways with smaller towns, including the Southwold Railway, the Wolverton and Stony Stratford Tramway and the famous Lynton and Barnstaple Railway in Devon. These lines allowed communities that did not merit a full railway service to connect to the mainline network at low cost.

The 1880s were the high point of British narrow-gauge railways as traffic on many of these lines reached its peak volume and new lines were built across the country.Script error: No such module "Unsubst".

In 1896, the Light Railways Act was passed which allowed the construction of railways to less stringent standards than had previously been allowed. This led to a short resurgence in the building of narrow-gauge railways, especially in rural locations. In Wales, the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway was built to serve farming communities and the Vale of Rheidol Light Railway was a tourist line that also served lead mines; in England the Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway served similar purposes in the Staffordshire Moorlands.

The 1904 Railway Clearing House Railway Atlas showed the major narrow-gauge railways:

Railway Gauge
East Cornwall Mineral Railway Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". (later converted to
Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".)
Southwold Railway Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
Pentewan Railway Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway
Corris Railway Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
Talyllyn Railway
Croesor Tramway Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
Ffestiniog Railway Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway
Vale of Rheidol Railway
Welsh Highland Railway

Decline of the narrow gauge: 1914–1950

After the First World War, rail traffic declined with the widespread adoption of motor vehicles and public narrow-gauge lines in Britain began to struggle financially.[7] Most of these railways were built to serve marginal traffic that would not support a larger line. As road competition increased, many existing lines fell into decline and fewer new railways were built.

The 1920s saw a brief resurgence of the narrow gauge as surplus equipment from the War Department Light Railways (WDLR) became available. Several industrial railways were built using second-hand WDLR equipment, notably the Leighton Buzzard Light Railway. Other lines such as the Glyn Valley Tramway and the Snailbeach District Railways were able to replace ageing locomotives relatively cheaply and continue to operate on shoestring budgets. Even the famed Ffestiniog Railway acquired a Baldwin locomotive to shore up the fleet working the Welsh Highland Railway which it now owned.

The last narrow-gauge commercial carrier in Britain was the Ashover Light Railway,Script error: No such module "Unsubst".Script error: No such module "Unsubst". opened in 1925 using surplus war equipment. This was the epitome of cheaply constructed light railways and was one of several minor railways owned by Colonel Stephens.

Meanwhile, the use of narrow-gauge railways in industry continued to flourish. Many small railways were built to serve sand and gravel pits, cement works and the peat and timber extraction industries, often using ex-WDLR equipment.

The continued development of road transport and the economic crises of the 1930s saw a slow decline in the use of narrow-gauge railways across the country. The Second World War pushed many struggling enterprises into bankruptcy as labour and materials were diverted to the war effort. During and immediately after the war, the majority of the remaining lines closed: between 1946 and 1950 the Ffestiniog, Corris, Ashover Light, Rye and Camber and Eaton Hall railways all closed. Many industrial lines did not survive the war years.

The narrow gauge after 1950

File:TaliesinAtTanyBwlch.JPG
Locomotive Taliesin on the revived Ffestiniog Railway, one of the Great Little Trains of Wales

The use of narrow-gauge railways in Britain declined throughout the first half of the 20th century. This decline accelerated after the Second World War as improved road transport displaced railways in industry and for passenger service.[8]

In 1951 however, a group of railway enthusiasts, alarmed at the loss of this part of British industrial heritage, stepped in to save the failing Talyllyn Railway. This became the first railway to be run entirely by volunteers and sparked a movement to preserve many railways, both narrow- and standard-gauge as tourist attractions. Since then many lines have been preserved as working museums, and new narrow-gauge railways are being constructed for the tourist industry.

In the 21st century a very few industrial and common carrier lines survive. Notable among the latter are the Glasgow Subway, an underground metro line that operates on a Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge, and the Manx Electric Railway on the Isle of Man.

Significant lines

Amongst the most well-known narrow-gauge lines in Britain are the Ffestiniog, the oldest independent railway company in the world, the Talyllyn, the world's first preserved railway of any gauge, and the Welshpool & Llanfair in Wales; and the Lynton & Barnstaple in England. Unique among British railways is the rack-and-pinion Snowdon Mountain Railway which climbs to just below the summit of Wales' highest peak.

Several significant lines operate on the Isle of Man. The Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Isle of Man Steam Railway operates as a tourist attraction. The Template:TrackGauge Manx Electric Railway has the two oldest operating electric trams in the world.[9] The Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". gauge Snaefell Mountain Railway climbs the island's main peak and is the sole operating Fell system railway in the world.

The narrow-gauge railways of Britain and the Isle of Man

Public railways

These are narrow-gauge railways that ran public passenger trains for a significant portion of their existence. In 1951 the Talyllyn Railway was the first railway in the world to be taken over and preserved by volunteers. This was the start of the heritage railway movement, which has flourished in Britain and around the world in the years since. As a result, many of these lines passed from being common carriers and were preserved as heritage railways after their demise. Where this has happened their heritage existence is included as a second row.

Name Years of operation Gauge Length Location Image Notes
Abbey Light Railway[10] 1978–2012 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds, England File:Kirkstall light railway - geograph.org.uk - 1018928.jpg From opposite the shopping zone into the Abbey grounds. Industrial diesels, used to run most Sundays in summer. Dismantled in 2013 after death of owner.
Alford and Sutton Tramway[11][12] 1884–1889 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Alford, England File:Tram300.jpg Steam-hauled street tramway
Alford Valley Railway[10] 1979–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Alford, Scotland File:Alford Valley Railway - geograph.org.uk - 254403.jpg Built on the old standard-gauge branch from Upper Donside to Kintore Junction
Almond Valley Light Railway[13] 1993–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Livingston, Scotland File:Almond Valley Barclay 1.jpg Short line at a heritage museum featuring diesel locomotives from armaments factories
Ashover Light Railway[14][15] 1925–1950 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Clay Cross, England File:"Bridget" or "Joan" Ashover Light Railway.jpg Mineral and passenger line owned by the Clay Cross Company built using ex-WDLR equipment
Bala Lake Railway[10] 1972–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Llanuwchllyn, Wales File:Llangower Bala Lake Railway geograph-3283026-by-Ben-Brooksbank.jpg Steam-hauled tourist railway built on the trackbed of the standard-gauge Ruabon–Barmouth line
Birmingham Corporation Tramways 1872–1953 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Birmingham File:Birmingham Tram.jpg A large network of tramways running through Birmingham and the Black Country. Originally steam- and horse- hauled, converted to electricity from 1901.
Brecon Mountain Railway[10] 1980–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Merthyr Tydfil, Wales File:Baldwin Pacific on Brecon Mountain Railway.jpg Steam-hauled tourist railway built on the trackbed of the standard-gauge Brecon & Merthyr Railway
Bredgar and Wormshill Light Railway[10] 1975–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Hollingbourne, England File:Decauville 246 of 1897.JPG A Script error: No such module "convert". long private steam railway that holds regular open days
Camborne and Redruth Tramways[16] 1902–1934 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Redruth, England File:Trimming tin stone, East Pool Mine.jpg Cornwall's only electric tramway. As well as a passenger service, mineral traffic was carried behind electric locomotives.
Campbeltown and Machrihanish Light Railway[17][18] 1877–1932[15] Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Mull of Kintyre, Scotland File:'Atlantic', the last locomotive built for the Campbeltown and Machrihanish Light Railway, Andrew Barclay 0-6-2T, builder's photograph, 1907.jpg Remote line serving coal mines and passengers on the Kintyre peninsula
Corris Railway 1859–1948 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert".[15] Machynlleth, Wales File:Historic Corris Railway at Machynlleth.jpg Built to carry slate from the Corris district. Closed after flooding of the Afon Dyfi.
1967–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Corris, Wales File:Corris No 7 - 2006-10-28.jpg Heritage railway revival of the Corris Railway. Reopened in 2002.
Devon Railway Centre 1997–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Unknown Tiverton, England File:Devon Railway Centre - steam locomotive (geograph 3717052).jpg A tourist railway and locomotive collection
Fairbourne Railway 1895–1916 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Fairbourne, Wales File:The Tram Terminus, Barmouth Ferry.jpg A horse-drawn tramway carrying building materials for Fairbourne village
1916–1986 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Fairbourne, Wales File:Fairbourne Miniature Railway - geograph.org.uk - 250856.jpg A minimum-gauge railway replacing the horse-drawn tramway, for carrying tourists
1986–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Fairbourne, Wales File:FairborneRailway19.jpg Passenger carrying miniature railway running from Fairbourne village to Penrhyn Point. From 2012 onwards, some Template:TrackGauge track has been reinstated.
Festiniog and Blaenau Railway[19] 1868–1883 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales File:Festiniog and Blaenau Railway viaduct.jpg Independent line feeding the Ffestiniog Railway to which it was connected. Converted to a standard-gauge branch of the Great Western Railway in 1883
Ffestiniog Railway[19] 1836[15] −1946 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Porthmadog, Wales File:Ffestiniog PDold 4.jpg Built to carry slate from the Blaenau Ffestiniog district to the coast
1954–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Porthmadog, Wales File:DavidLloydGeorge-P6031714.JPG Heritage revival of the original company. Longer route due to the spiral.
Foxdale Railway 1886–1905 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Foxdale, Isle of Man File:St. Johns Station - geograph.org.uk - 1347932.jpg Carried lead and silver ore from mines at Foxdale to St John's for onward transport to Ramsey via the Manx Northern Railway who operated the line
Gartell Light Railway 1990–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Yenston, Somerset, England File:Gartell Light Railway (geograph 2651492).jpg Built partly along the track of the old Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway
Glasgow Subway 1896–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Glasgow, Scotland File:Glasgow Underground.jpg Underground cable-hauled metro line, converted to three-rail operation in 1935[20] and modernised 1977–1980. Still in operation as a common carrier.
Glyn Valley Tramway[21] 1873–1935 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert".[15] Chirk, Wales File:Steam locomotive of Glyn Valley Tramway.jpg Carried granite and passengers along the Ceriog Valley, much of the length as a roadside tramway
2007–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Chirk, Wales Glyn Valley Tramway Trust based at Chirk Station. Has planning permission for a one-mile running line.[22]
1989–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Chirk, Wales New Glyn Valley Tramway & Industrial Heritage Trust based at Glyn Ceriiog station
Great Laxey Mine Railway 2004–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Laxey, Isle of Man File:Ant on Great Laxey Mine Railway - 2005-08-20.jpg Replica locomotives running passenger trains on the original trackbed of the Laxey mines railway
Great Orme Tramway 1902–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Llandudno, Wales File:GOT Tram 5 Ascending 05-07-17 10.jpeg Cable-hauled tourist railway carrying passengers to the top of the Great Orme headland
Groudle Glen Railway 1896–1962 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Isle of Man File:'Sea Lion', Groudle Glen Railway (All About Railways, Hartnell).jpg Tourist railway along the clifftops at Groudle Glen
1986–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Isle of Man File:'Polar Bear' at the Groudle Glen Railway - geograph.org.uk - 784591.jpg Tourist railway along the clifftops at Groudle Glen

Restored by the Isle of Man Steam Railway Supporters' Association

Hampton & Kempton Waterworks Railway 1916–1945, 2013–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Hampton, London File:Hampton & Kempton Waterworks Railway, Hanworth Loop (geograph 6306512).jpg A short line near the site of the original industrial railway serving Hampton Waterworks
Hayling Seaside Railway 2003–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Hayling Island File:Hayling Seaside Railway 01.jpg Runs along Hayling Island sea front
Herne Bay Pier Railway 1896–1939 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".[23] Script error: No such module "convert". Herne Bay, England File:Herne Bay Pier 006.jpg Pier construction railway that was retained for passenger use
Hythe Pier Railway[24][25] 1879–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Hythe, England File:Hythe Pier Locomotive.jpg Originally hand-operated. Relaid and converted to third-rail electric operation in 1922. Forms part of an integrated rail-and-ferry transport link from Hythe to Southampton.
Isle of Man Steam Railway 1873–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Douglas, Isle of Man File:Train in santon.jpg An extensive network of lines covering the island. Now reduced to one main line that is principally a steam-hauled tourist railway.
Jersey Railway[21] 1870–1936 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Saint Helier, Jersey File:Jersey Railway No. 4 "St. Brelades".png Passenger and goods services in the island of Jersey
Lake Lock Rail Road[26] 1798–1846 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Stanley, England Early narrow-gauge railway serving collieries and stone quarries near Wakefield
Launceston Steam Railway[16] 1983–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Launceston, England File:Launceston steam railway train 1.jpg Steam-hauled tourist railway built on the trackbed of the standard-gauge North Cornwall Railway
Leadhills and Wanlockhead Railway 1986–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Leadhills, Scotland File:Leadhills & Wanlockhead Railway 05-08-29 64.jpeg Passenger-carrying tourist line built on a standard-gauge trackbed
Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway[21][27] 1904–1934 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert".[15] Hulme End, England File:Hulme End Station - geograph.org.uk - 271820.jpg Agricultural and passenger service for the Manifold valley in the Staffordshire Moorlands
Leighton Buzzard Railway[10] 1968–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Leighton Buzzard, England File:Simplex at Leighton Buzzard 05-09-11 30.jpeg Heritage railway operating over the tracks of the Leighton Buzzard Light Railway
Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway[10] 1958–1985, 2009–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". 1 mile Humberston, England later Skegness Water Leisure Park, England File:The old sheds of the Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway (geograph 2473055).jpg Tourist line built using ex–Nocton Potato Estate railway equipment at Humberstone. The rolling stock and track were moved to Skegness Water Park, and the railway was reopened in 2009 on the new site.
Little Eaton Gangway[10] 1795–1908 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". and Template:TrackGauge 5 miles Little Eaton, England File:Wagonway.jpg One of the earliest iron railways in the world, this narrow-gauge wagonway was built by Benjamin Outram and survived over 100 years hauling coal from Denby to the Erewash Canal.
Llanberis Lake Railway[10] 1972–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Llanberis, Wales File:Llanberis Lake Railway Elidir 2.jpg Tourist railway running along part of the trackbed of the Padarn Railway using equipment from the Dinorwic quarry railway.
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway[28] 1898–1935 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Barnstaple, England File:BaldwinLocomotiveLyn.jpg Carried passengers and general freight for Script error: No such module "convert". of rugged countryside around Exmoor, Devon. Part of the line is now being restored as a heritage railway, and reopened to passengers in 2004. The line was extended to just over Script error: No such module "convert". in May 2006.
2003–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Woody Bay, England File:Lynton & Barnstaple Railway- train from Killington Lane (geograph 4031402).jpg Restoration of the Lynton and Barnstaple railway, on the trackbed of the original line
Manx Electric Railway 1893[15] -present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Douglas, Isle of Man File:Manx Electric Railway tram 5 at Laxey.JPG An electric tramway running from Douglas to Ramsey along the east coast of the Isle of Man
Manx Northern Railway 1879–1905 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Ramsey, Isle of Man File:MNR-Caledonia.jpg Steam railway from St John's to Ramsey on the Isle of Man. Incorporated into the Isle of Man Railway in 1905.
Margam Park Railway 2002–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Margam Country Park File:Margam Park Railway 1.jpg Operates in Margam Country Park, not open in winter
Middleton Railway 1758–1881 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Middleton, England File:The Collier (crop).jpg Early railway, that ran the first successful steam locomotives starting in 1812. Converted to standard gauge in 1881, it exists in 2016 as a preserved railway.
North Bay Railway 1931-Present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Scarborough, England File:Scarborough North Bay Railway - 2006-08-03.jpg
North Gloucestershire Railway 1985–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Toddington, England File:Henschel No.15968 (8979093614).jpg A short railway laid beside the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway, replacing the Dowty Railway Society
North Wales Narrow Gauge Railways[19] 1877–1916 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert".[15] Dinas, Wales File:Moel Tryfan works photo.jpg One of the precursors to the WHR. Carried passengers, slate and general freight.
Perrygrove Railway[24] 1995–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Royal Forest of Dean, England File:Lydialoco.jpg A steam hauled tourist railway
Plynlimon and Hafan Tramway[15] 1897–1899 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert".[15] Talybont, Wales File:Plynlimon and Hafan trackbed - 2007-03-03.jpg Short-lived line serving the Hafan stone quarry and Talybont village with a rail link at Llanfihangel (now Llandre)
Portmadoc, Beddgelert and South Snowdon Railway[19] 1901–1908 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Unknown Porthmadog, Wales File:PBSSR abutments at Beddgelert.jpg An attempt to connect Porthmadog to Beddgelert and the NWNGR. Although it never opened to traffic, much of the trackbed was built and formed part of the WHR.
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway[15][21] 1875–1913 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert".[15] Ravenglass, England A line serving the iron ore mines and local passengers in the western Lake District. Closed to passengers in 1908, but freight continued until 1913.
1915–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Ravenglass, England File:River Esk at Ravenglass. - geograph.org.uk - 881235.jpg A Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". minimum-gauge railway which is still in operation, with a mixture of steam and diesel locomotives
Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway 1927–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Kent, England File:Dungeness. - geograph.org.uk - 51430.jpg Running a mixture of steam and diesel trains, mainly operates as a tourist attraction but has also provided local services including secondary school transport, shoppers trains, and freight services including fish and commercial ballast transportation
Rothesay and Ettrick Bay Light Railway 1879–1936 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".,
converted to
Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". in 1902 		Script error: No such module "convert". Rothesay, Scotland File:The Street railway journal (1903) (14758458141).jpg A horse tramway, converted to an electric tramway in 1902
Rye and Camber Tramway[21][29] 1895–1946 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Rye, England File:Rye and Camber Tramway - 'Camber' at Rye with the Bagnall coach (1895).jpg Passenger railway serving the seaside resorts and golf courses around Rye
Seaton Tramway 1969–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Seaton, Devon, England File:Seaton Tramway 23 May 2004 1.jpg Operates over a former axed British Rail branch line
Shipley Glen Tramway 1895–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Saltaire, England File:Shipley Glen Tramway (28374739810).jpg Rope-hauled inclined tourist railway
Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway[10][11] 1969–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Sittingbourne, England File:SKLR Alpha.JPG Heritage railway founded by the Locomotive Club of Great Britain, operating over part of the Bowater Light Railway
Snaefell Mountain Railway 1895–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Laxey, Isle of Man File:Snaefell Mountain Railway car no 4 on mountain.jpg Steeply-graded electric-powered Fell railway climbing to the summit of Snaefell, the Isle of Man's highest peak
Snowdon Mountain Railway[19] 1896–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Llanberis, Wales File:SMR 2 at Llanberis 05-07-19 43.jpeg Britain's only rack railway, built to carry passengers to the top of Wales' highest mountain
Steep Grade Railway 1897–1909 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Unknown Brighton, England File:01-SteepGradeRailway.jpg A tourist funicular railway climbing the South Downs
South Tynedale Railway 1983–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Alston, England File:Narrow gauge Polish engine at new home on South Tyndale Railway.jpg Steam-hauled line running on part of the trackbed of the standard-gauge Newcastle and Carlisle Railway's Haltwhistle to Alston Branch
Southend Pier Railway[30] 1830–1978 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Southend, England File:0030 1949 train along pier2.JPG Pier construction railway later used for passenger haulage, firstly horse-drawn, then electric
1986–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". File:Southend Pier Railway, Southend-on-Sea, UK.jpg Pier railway later using modern battery electric stock
Southport Pier Tramway[31] 1863–2015 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
(Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
between 1950 and 2002) 		Script error: No such module "convert". Southport, England File:Southport Pier 4.JPG Pier tramway, originally built for baggage and later used for passenger haulage. Variously operated by cable, (external) electric, diesel and (currently) battery–electric traction.
Southwold Railway 1879–1929 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Southwold, England File:Southwold Railway Station.jpg Steam-hauled line connecting Southwold with Halesworth along the Suffolk coast. There are ongoing plans to relay part of the line.
Steeple Grange Light Railway[32] 1988–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Wirksworth, England File:Steeple Grange Light Railway - geograph.org.uk - 1704670.jpg Passenger-hauling minimum-gauge railway running on the trackbed of the Killer's Branch of the standard-gauge Cromford and High Peak Railway
Surrey Iron Railway[33] 1802–1846 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Coulsdon, England File:Surrey Iron Railway02.JPG A horse-drawn plateway that linked Wandsworth and Croydon via Mitcham, the Surrey Iron Railway was the first public railway in the world, being established by Act of Parliament in 1801.
Talyllyn Railway[15] 1865–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Tywyn, Wales File:TalyllynAtNantGwernol1890.jpg Built to carry slate from Bryneglwys quarry to the coast. First heritage railway in the world to be preserved and run by volunteers.
Teifi Valley Railway 1986–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Henllan, Wales File:'Sergeant Murphy' taking on water at the Teifi Valley Railway - geograph.org.uk - 395909.jpg A steam-hauled tourist railway on the trackbed of a standard-gauge GWR branch to Carmarthen
Torrington and Marland Railway[34] 1880–1971 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Torrington, England Built to carry clay from the pits at Marland.
Tunnel Railway 1936–1965 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Ramsgate, England File:The Ramsgate Tunnel Narrow Gauge Railway (geograph 2850999).jpg Steeply graded tourist line running mainly in a tunnel under Ramsgate
Twyford Waterworks[35] Unknown-present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Unknown Twyford, England File:Twyford Waterworks. - geograph.org.uk - 342805.jpg Short industrial narrow-gauge railway line
Vale of Rheidol Railway[15] 1902–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Aberystwyth, Wales File:Rheidol Railway.jpg Originally built to serve the lead mines of the Vale of Rheidol and the tourist trade, now a purely heritage line
Between 1948 and 1989 the line was operated by British Rail
Volks Electric Railway 1883–present Script error: No such module "convert". Script error: No such module "convert". Brighton, England File:Volks Electric Railway No 8.jpg Britain's first electric railway, running along the beachfront at Brighton
Welsh Highland Railway[19] 1922–1937 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Porthmadog, Wales File:WHR-P5141523X.JPG An ambitious but short-lived project to create Britain's longest narrow-gauge railway. Now rebuilt.
1997–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Caernarfon, Wales File:Bodysgallen south of Rhyd Ddu.jpg Restoration of the main line of the Welsh Highland Railway
Welsh Highland Heritage Railway[10] 1964–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Porthmadog, Wales File:KarenGelertsFarm.jpeg Concentrating on the heritage aspects of the Welsh Highland Railway, including a museum and miniature railway. Uses a section of the original trackbed that the WHR Caernarfon line deviated from to connect to Porthmadog station on the Ffestiniog Railway.
Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway[11][36] 1903–1956 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert".[15] Welshpool, Wales File:Welshpool to Llanfair Caereinion railway line (12989519473).jpg Agricultural and passenger services in the Welsh borders
1963–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Welshpool, Wales File:Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway No. 1 The Earl.JPG Heritage revival of the line
West Lancashire Light Railway[10] 1966–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Hesketh Bank, England File:Montalban WLLR 19.05.12R edited-2.jpg Developed as a private railway, now operating as a tourist line with ex-industrial steam and diesel locomotives
Whistlestop Valley (Formerly Kirklees Light Railway) 1991–present 15 in (381 mm) 3.5 miles (5.6 km) Kirklees, West Yorkshire File:Kirklees Light Railway Badger and Katie Shelley.jpg Built atop the trackbed of the Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway's former branch line, from Clayton West via Skelmanthorpe to Shelley Woodhouse
Wolverton and Stony Stratford Tramway 1886–1926 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Milton Keynes, England File:StonyStratford1.jpg Steam-hauled roadside tramway
Woodhorn Narrow Gauge Railway 1993–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Ashington, England File:Narrow gauge railway at Woodhorn (geograph 4713373).jpg Passenger-carrying narrow-gauge tourist railway
Yaxham Light Railway[10] 1967–present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Yaxham, England File:Yaxham Light Railway - geograph.org.uk - 1435140.jpg Steam-hauled passenger line at the former GER railway station at Yaxham

Estate railways

Narrow-gauge railways serving private estates. These were often minimum-gauge railways.

Name Years of operation Gauge Length Location Image Notes
Ardkinglas Railway[37] before 1879-early 20th century Template:RailGauge Unknown Ardkinglas Estate, Scotland Private estate railway
Buscot Park Railway[38] c1871-c1900 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Buscot Park, England Short lived industrial estate railway serving the farmland and distillery on the banks of the River Thames.
Dalmunzie Railway[39] 1920–1978 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Dalmunzie Hotel, Scotland Estate railway serving the grouse shooting moors and stone quarry above the hotel
Dodington House Railway ?–1983 Template:RailGauge ? Tormarton, England Built as a private line, with the intention to become a tourist attraction. Used two Hudson Hunslet diesel locomotives. Stock went to the Groudle Glen Railway after closure.
Duchal Moor Railway 1922–1970s Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Duchal Moor, Scotland File:Duchal Moor Narrow Gauge Railway - geograph.org.uk - 397667.jpg Estate railway serving the grouse shooting moors
Duffield Bank Railway 1874–1916 Template:RailGauge Unknown Duffield, Derbyshire File:Engine No 1 Effie, Duffield Bank, 1875, Plate XII (Minimum Gauge Railways).png Private demonstration estate railway built by Sir Arthur Heywood
Eaton Hall Railway[15] 1896–1947 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Eaton Hall, Cheshire File:Engine No 4 and train, Eaton Hall Railway, Plate VIII (Minimum Gauge Railways).png Estate railway connecting Eaton Hall to the GWR at Balderton partially reconstructed as the Eaton Park Railway
St Michael's Mount Tramway[40] 1912–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". St. Michael's Mount, Marazion, Cornwall File:Saint Michael's mount, hill view.jpg Funicular used only for freight, linking quay with castle, running mainly in tunnel
Sand Hutton Light Railway[15] 1912–1932 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Warthill, England File:Sand Hutton Light Railway - Old postcard No 15.jpg Passenger and general freight line serving the Sand Hutton estate.

Museums

Museums devoted to narrow-gauge railways

Name Opened Closed Gauge Length Location Image Notes
Albany Steam Museum Forest Road Light Railway[24] before 1973 unknown Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Unknown Newport, England Steam and diesel locomotives on the site of a planned railway. Closed due to lack of planning permission for the site.
Amberley Working Museum[10] 1979 Present mainly Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Amberley, England File:AmberleyMuseum.jpg Large industrial museum with extensive narrow-gauge railway collection, mainly from lines in the southeast of England.
Armley Mills Industrial Museum ? Present various Script error: No such module "convert". Leeds, England File:Quarry Hunslet at Armley Mills - geograph.org.uk - 335186.jpg Industrial museum highlighting the industrial heritage of Leeds. Has a significant collection of Leeds-built locomotives and a short demonstration line.
Blists Hill Clay Mine Railway 2009 present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Script error: No such module "convert". Telford, Shropshire File:Coalmine tram, Blists Hill.jpg Operates at Blists Hill Victorian Town
Brockham Museum[10][41] 1962 1983 various ? Dorking, England Large collection of narrow-gauge railway equipment from the south-east of England. The collection moved to the Amberley Chalk Pits Museum
Bursledon Brickworks Museum[24] About 1964[42] November 2019[42] Template:RailGauge ? Bursledon, England File:Bursledon Brickworks Museum - geograph.org.uk - 464782.jpg Steam-railway run by the Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway Society
China Clay Industry Museum[10] ? Present Template:RailGauge ? St Austell, England Static display of ex-Lee Moor tramway locomotive
Conwy Valley Railway Museum[10] 1965 (?) Present Various ? Betws-y-Coed, Wales Small railway museum including a number of narrow-gauge artifacts
Dowty Railway Preservation Society[10] 1962 1985 various ? Tewkesbury, England Society of railway enthusiasts from the Dowty Group of companies with a substantial collection of narrow-gauge locomotives. See the North Gloucestershire Railway entry.
Durley Light Railway[24] 1968 2015 Template:RailGauge ? Durley, England Collection of steam and diesel locomotives originally located at Stoke Park sand pit from 1962, moved to Durley in 1968 where a railway was established.
The Narrow Gauge Railway Centre at Gloddfa Ganol[10] 1978[43] 1997 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales File:Kerr Stuart 1ft 10in 0-6-0T 3014 Gloddfa Ganol, N Wales 12.8.1992 (10196697555).jpg Then the largest collection of narrow-gauge locomotives in Britain, with over 70 present; housed in the former Oakeley slate quarry.
Golden Valley Light Railway Late 1980s Present Template:RailGauge Just under Script error: No such module "convert". Butterley, England File:Golden Valley Light Railway, near Swanwick (geograph 1643376).jpg Scenic passenger line laid on the old Butterley works tramway, running to Newlands Inn through the country park. Large collection of working narrow-gauge locomotives and rolling stock housed within a large purpose-built shed at the Midland Railway – Butterley.
Herefordshire Waterworks Museum 1982 Present Template:RailGauge ? Hereford, England Short demonstration line.
Hollycombe Steam Collection[10] 1968 Present Template:RailGauge ? Liphook, England File:Palmerston at Hollycombe - geograph.org.uk - 1159811.jpg Working steam museum
Irchester Narrow Gauge Railway Museum 1980s Present Template:RailGauge ? Irchester, England File:Narrow Gauge Steam Engine at Irchester Country Park Railway Museum - Flickr - mick - Lumix.jpg Collection of rolling stock from Midlands ironstone railways and a short demonstration line.
Kew Bridge Steam Museum[10][41] 1986 Present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". London, England File:CloisterAtKewBridge.jpg Waterworks museum with a short demonstration line, run since 1992 by the Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway Society
Klondyke Steam Museum[10] 1981 1982 Template:RailGauge ? Draycott-on-the-clay, England A proposed steam museum using the Ffestiniog Railway locomotive Palmerston. Never opened
Llechwedd Slate Caverns[10] 1972 present Various Unknown Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales File:Llechwedd Slate Caverns 443.jpg Passenger carrying railway operated with battery-electric locomotives, mainly underground in the Llechwedd slate mine; separate funicular that takes passengers into deeper portions of the mine also present
Monkton Farleigh Mine Museum[44] before 1987 1990 Template:RailGauge ? Bath, England 4wDM locomotive at a mining museum in an abandoned quarry.
Morwellham Open Air Museum[10] ? Present Template:RailGauge ? Tavistock, England File:Morwellham Quay , the mine railway - geograph.org.uk - 381805.jpg Passenger-carrying tourist railway at the museum
Moseley Industrial Narrow Gauge Tramway and Museum Tumblydown Farm railway[16][45] 2001 Present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Tolgus Mount, England Part of the original Moseley Tramway collection now relocated to Cornwall.
Moseley Railway Trust[10] 1968 Present mainly Template:RailGauge ? Newcastle-under-Lyme, England File:Moseley Railway Trust - narrow gauge locomotive (geograph 4272588).jpg A large collection of industrial locomotives. Most of them moved to the Apedale Heritage Centre in 2006.
Narrow Gauge Railway Museum[10] 1956 Present Various ? Tywyn, Wales File:DundeeGasWorksLoco.jpg Static exhibits at the Talyllyn Railway's Tywyn Wharf station.
Penrhyn Castle Railway Museum 1951 Present various ? Bangor, Wales File:Charles at Penrhyn Castle (geograph 4537381).jpg Collection of industrial narrow-gauge locomotives and artifacts
Purbeck Mineral and Mining Museum[46][47] 2004 Present various ? Norden, England File:Tramway at Norden station (geograph 4689151).jpg Collection of narrow-gauge rolling stock from the Purbeck clay mining industry. A demonstration railway is under construction.
Radstock Light Railway[46] 1995 present Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Unknown Radstock, England Equipment on the Somerset and Avon Railway Association's site, mostly from the former Vobster Railway.
Science and Industry Museum 1983 Present Template:RailGauge ? Manchester, England File:Beyer, Peacock & Co. Ltd, 1255 of 1873, Isle of Mann Railway loco, MOSI, Manchester, July 2007 P7170017 (9883684044).jpg Static exhibit of ex-Isle of Man Railway No. 3 Pender
Tolgus Tin Mine Museum[10] ? ? Template:RailGauge ? Redruth, England File:Tolgus Tin - geograph.org.uk - 688689.jpg Static display of mining locomotive
Welland Valley Vintage Traction Club[10] ? ? Template:RailGauge ? Market Harborough, England Ex-ironstone quarry railway equipment on static exhibition, including Kettering Ironstone Railway No. 8[48]
Westonzoyland Pumping Station Museum[10][46] ? 2004 Template:RailGauge ? Westonzoyland, England File:Westonzoyland Pumping Station Museum 14.JPG Small industrial museum at restored pumphouse with a short demonstration railway.

Visitor attractions

Narrow-gauge railways that operate as part of a larger tourist attraction, such as an estate or theme park.

Name Years of operation Gauge Length Location Image Notes
Alton Towers Park Railway 1953–1996 Template:RailGauge Unknown Farley, Staffordshire, England A narrow-gauge railway at the Alton Towers amusement park.
Lappa Valley Steam Railway 1974–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Newquay, Cornwall, England File:Lappa valley steam railway 1.JPG A narrow-gauge railway and family entertainment park built on the trackbed of the GWR Newquay to Chacewater line, between Benny Halt and East Wheal Rose.
Amerton Railway[49] 1990–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Amerton, England File:AmertonFarmRailway.jpg A steam-hauled passenger line running round the Amerton Working Farm.
Battersea Park, Far Tottering and Oyster Creek Railway[41] 1951–1953 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Battersea, England A whimsical attraction at the Festival of Britain Pleasure Gardens built to the designs of the Punch cartoonist Emett.
Bicton Woodland Railway 1963–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Budleigh Salterton, England File:Bicton Woodland Railway 285.jpg A tourist railway running round Bicton Gardens, originally equipped with stock from the Woolwich Arsenal Railway.
Blenheim Palace Railway 1975-present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire File:Winston at Palace Station, Blenheim Park Railway, Woodstock (geograph 4539473).jpg The line runs between car park and palace, through parkland surrounding the ancestral home of the Dukes of Marlborough. The steam-outline diesel locomotive, built by Alan Keef, is named after Winston Churchill, who was born at Blenheim in 1874.
Bressingham Steam and Gardens (Bressingham Steam Museum) 1970s-present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Diss, Norfolk File:Narrow Gauge Train - geograph.org.uk - 359667.jpg Short passenger carrying line around the famous Bloom gardens at Bressingham; part of a larger steam collection.
Camelot Theme Park 1983–1986 Template:RailGauge Unknown Charnock Richard, England Short tourist line at an amusement park in Lancashire
Chessington World of Adventures, Chessington Railroad[41] 1987–1996 Template:RailGauge Unknown Chessington, England Passenger carrying tourist line in Chessington World of Adventures that was built to replace the Template:RailGauge miniature railway Chessington Zoo Railway.
Cotswold Wildlife Park Railway 1975–present Template:RailGauge Unknown Burford, England File:ColdswoldWildlifeParkRailway-Bella-Aug08.JPG Passenger carrying tourist line around the wildlife park.
Doddington Park Light Railway ?-present Template:RailGauge Unknown Chipping Sodbury, England A tourist railway in the grounds of Doddington House stately home.
Drusillas Park Railway 1946–present Template:RailGauge Unknown Alfriston, England File:Drusillas-006.jpg Short tourist line around an amusement park.
Gardner's Pleasure Resort[41] 1893–1934 Unknown Unknown Riddlesdown, England Early pleasure railway with home-built steam locomotive which survived until 1948.
Knebworth Park and Winter Green Railway 1972–1990 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Knebworth, England Steam-hauled passenger line in the grounds of Knebworth House.
Legoland Windsor, Hill Train 1991–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Windsor, Berkshire, England File:The Hill Train - Legoland, Windsor - geograph.org.uk - 868561.jpg A funicular. Opened when the park was still known as Windsor Safari Park.
Margam Train[50] ?-present Template:RailGauge Unknown Margam Country Park, Wales Tourist railway round the Country Park hauled by a steam-outline diesel locomotive.
Old Kiln Light Railway[51][41] 1982–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Tilford, England File:Orenstein and Koppel of Berlin. Works No. 9998 'Elouise' (7866815064).jpg Short steam-hauled railway at the Rural Life Centre.
Overstone Solarium Light Railway 1969–? Template:RailGauge Unknown Sywell, England A short line running as a tourist attraction round the Overstone Solarium amusement park.
Pleasure Beach Express 1933–present Template:RailGauge Unknown Blackpool, England Short tourist line running around the perimeter of the south half of Pleasure Beach Blackpool.
RANG (Royal Arsenal Narrow Gauge) railway[52] 2019–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Crossness Pumping Station, Thamesmead, England File:Bazalgette RANG.jpg The line transports visitors to the Victorian Pumping Station. The locomotive Bazalgette is a Severn-Lamb 0-4-0Template:Whyte suffix.
Seaton Tramway 1971–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Seaton, England File:Trams at Seaton.jpg Electric tramway using half-scale trams.
Telford Town Tramway[10][53] 1979–1988, then 1992–present Template:RailGauge 300 yards Telford, England File:Steam tram, Telford Steam Railway by L S Wilson.jpg A steam-hauled tramway in Telford new town, it closed in the mid 1980s and was then moved to the Telford Steam Railway, where it continues to run.
Thorpe Park, Canada Creek Railway[41] 1989–2011 Template:RailGauge Unknown Chertsey, England File:The End of the Line - geograph.org.uk - 1165846.jpg Short tourist line at an amusement park in Surrey. From 1989 to 2006 this train carried guests to and from Thorpe Farm. The railway then had a shortened closed circuit around the Canada Creek area of the park beginning in 2007 until its closure.
Thorpe Park, Treasure Island Railway[41] 1984–1992 Template:RailGauge Unknown Chertsey, England Short tourist line at an amusement park in Surrey. A small train based attraction around an Island featuring live actors and audience participation loosely based on the novel Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson.
Waltham Abbey Royal Gunpowder Mills Railway[52] ?–present Template:RailGauge 300 yards Waltham Abbey, England Script error: No such module "convert". long demonstration railway.
Wey Valley Light Railway[10][51][41] before 1971–1982 Script error: No such module "Track gauge".Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Unknown Farnham, England Passenger-carrying railway run by Farnham District Scouts. Became the Old Kiln Light Railway
Whipsnade Zoo Great Whipsnade Railway[11] 1970–present Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Dunstable, England File:ConquerorGWR.jpeg Steam-hauled passenger line running around the grounds of Whipsnade Zoo. Rolling stock came from the Bowater Light Railway.
Wicksteed Park Railway 1931–present 2 ft (610 mm) 1.25 mile (2.0 km) Kettering, England File:"Merlin" on the Wicksteed Park railway.jpg A railway line that runs in a loop around Wicksteed Park, one of the attractions for visitors at the park, and has been operating since 1931.
Woburn Safari Park Great Woburn Railway[54] 1973–present[55] Template:TrackGauge. Later converted to Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Woburn, England File:Lady Alexandra (Great Woburn Railway) 2.JPG Passenger line running around the grounds of Woburn Safari Park.
Yafford Mill Railway[24] 1994–2000 Template:RailGauge Script error: No such module "convert". Newport, England Short-lived passenger railway using ex-MOD diesel locomotives and stock built by Alan Keef.

Private railways

Template:Main article These are private lines or collections owned by individuals or small groups and generally not open to the public.

Industrial railways

File:AberllefenniQuarry.jpeg
Aberllefenni slate quarry

Template:Main article Great Britain was home to many industrial narrow-gauge railways, ranging from temporary hand-powered lines a few yards long to significant locomotive-worked complexes of lines that served substantial industrial concerns.

Military railways

Template:Main article Many British military establishments and former UK Government-owned explosives sites used narrow-gauge railways. These locations were often subject to the Official Secrets Act and other government restrictions, so many of them are less well documented.

See also

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References

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  1. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  2. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  3. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  4. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  5. ↑ Railway Regulation (Gauge) Act 1846 (PDF)
  6. ↑ Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  7. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  8. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  9. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  10. ↑ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  11. ↑ a b c d Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  12. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  13. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  14. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  15. ↑ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  16. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  17. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  18. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  19. ↑ a b c d e f Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  20. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  21. ↑ a b c d e Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  22. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  23. ↑ Track gauge
  24. ↑ a b c d e f Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  25. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  26. ↑ Goodchild, J. (2006), Early Railways 3, Six Martlets Publishing
  27. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  28. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  29. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  30. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  31. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  32. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  33. ↑ Dorian Gerhold, 'The rise and fall of the Surrey Iron Railway, 1802–46', Surrey Archaeological Collections, vol. 95 (2010), pp. 193, 195.
  34. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  35. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  36. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  37. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  38. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  39. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  40. ↑ St Michael's Mount Cliff Railway (unofficial) Website
  41. ↑ a b c d e f g h i Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  42. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  43. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  44. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  45. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  46. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  47. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  48. ↑ Template:Quine ironstone
  49. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  50. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  51. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  52. ↑ a b Template:James-NarrowGauge
  53. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  54. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  55. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".

Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".

Bibliography

  • Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  • Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  • Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  • Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".

Script error: No such module "Navbox".

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