Constructing the railway system

The growth of railways in England and Wales, 1778 to 1855
In Europe there were primitive wooden railways from the Middle Ages onwards, but these were private mineral lines along which the tubs or waggons were moved by animal or human power. In Britain the first railway to offer a public service appeared in 1778, but it still used horses. These maps trace the expansion of the public railway system in England and Wales from that date until 1855.
1825
Up to 1825 only a very few short railways offer a public service. These are all horse-powered except for the Stockton & Darlington Railway, which is the first public railway to use steam from the beginning.
1835
The most significant newcomer is the Liverpool and Manchester Railway, opened in 1830. The appearance of this map is deceptive, for following the Liverpool and Manchester Railway's success many more lines are planned, or under construction but unfinished.
1840
The beginnings of a national network can be seen. Express lines link London with Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds and many other significant centres of population. The Great Western Railway is well under way.
1845
More new trunk lines link London with Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Birmingham with the West Country, and Bristol with London.
1848
The principal railway companies consolidate their territories and expand into more new areas.
1855
The results of the 'railway mania' are seen with the completion of many new competing routes. One of these is the east coast route to Scotland. Much of the enduring railway system in England and Wales is now in place.